Ekid

Ekid, also spelled Eket, is an ethnic group of the Niger Delta in southern Nigeria, primarily located in Akwa Ibom State. The term Ekid can refer to both the people and their language, which is classified within the Ibibio–Ekid subgroup of the Benue-Congo branch of the Niger-Congo language family. The Ekid language is closely related to Ibibio and Efik, and many Ekid speakers are also bilingual in English and other regional languages.

Geography and demography: The Ekid homeland lies along the coastal and inland areas of present-day Akwa Ibom State, with the town of Eket serving as a historical and administrative center. The Ekid people live in communities within Eket and neighboring local government areas, forming part of the broader Niger Delta region.

History and society: In pre-colonial times the Ekid lived in a cluster of autonomous towns with traditional chieftaincies and councils. They participated in regional trade networks across the Niger Delta and established contact with European traders in the 19th century. During the colonial era, their territory came under British administration, and in post-independence Nigeria it became part of Akwa Ibom state.

Culture and economy: Ekid society traditionally centers on family lineages, age-grade associations, and customary rites. Christianity is now the dominant religion, often alongside retained traditional practices and festivals. The local economy combines fishing and farming with the influence of oil and gas development in the Niger Delta region.

See also: Eket.