Eggon

The Eggon are a central Nigerian people found mainly in Nasarawa State, especially around Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon and Lafia areas. They are one of the best-known indigenous groups of the Nasarawa highlands.

Eggon traditions link the people to hill settlements that offered security and identity before many communities moved into surrounding plains. Their history includes farming, local trade and contact with Alago, Mada, Gwandara, Hausa and other neighbours.

Eggon society is organised through clans, village heads, elders and recognised traditional institutions. Hill and plain settlements, extended families and age-group responsibilities remain important.

Traditional Eggon religion recognised ancestral spirits, land-linked powers and ritual specialists connected with farming and community welfare. Christianity is now widespread, with Islam also present in some areas.

Eggon cultural life includes harvest celebrations, traditional dance, masquerades, marriage ceremonies and language-preservation efforts. The Eggon hills remain a strong symbol of identity.