Arewa, or Arewaland, is a Hausa word which means "The North". The term is used to refer to Northern Nigeria in general.
In the history of Nigeria specifically, it is used to refer to the pre-1967 Northern Region, Nigeria. In post independence Nigeria, some use the word as a general term for Nigerian Hausaland: a contraction of "Arewacin Nijeriya" (Northern Nigeria).
Northern Nigeria consists of 19 states divided into three geopolitical zones: North West, North East, and North Central.
Map of Nigeria highlighting Northern Nigeria
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
The Arewa region is home to a broad spectrum of cultures, ethnicities, and languages, with Hausa being the dominant language. Other languages like Fulfulde and Kanuri also play significant roles in the cultural and social fabric of Northern Nigeria.
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Northern Nigeria is highly diverse in terms of ethnicity and languages. Hausa is the most widely spoken language in the vast region due to migration and trade, followed by Fulfulde.
Here's a closer look at some of the key languages:
- The Hausa language is the most widely spoken language in Northern Nigeria and serves as a lingua franca for many communities.
- Fulfulde is spoken by the Fulani people, who are spread across various states in the North West and North East regions.
- The Kanuri language is predominantly spoken in Borno and Yobe States, especially in areas around Maiduguri.
Learning about the many ethnic groups and languages of Nigeria
Historical and Political Significance
The region’s political and historical identity has deep roots in the pre-colonial Sokoto Caliphate and Kanem-Borno Empire.
Map of Sokoto Caliphate
Northern Nigeria regionalist groups, such as the Arewa Consultative Forum, and the related Arewa House are examples of this. These groups do not advocate independence from Nigeria, albeit, focus on unity of the Hausa-Fulani which forms the majority in the north.
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Religious Landscape
The majority of people in the Arewa region are Sunni Muslims, with a larger number adhering to Sufi brotherhoods. Islamic culture and Sharia law influence many aspects of daily life.
Mosque in Northern Nigeria
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