The Tiv people are an ethnic group in Nigeria, mainly found in the Benue State. They have a rich cultural heritage and have produced many notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. Here is a list of the top 10 famous people from the Tiv ethnic group:
- J.S. Tarka: A prominent politician and activist, J.S. Tarka played a significant role in Nigeria’s struggle for independence. He was a key figure in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and fought for the rights of the Tiv people.
- Chief B.B. Apagu: A successful businessman, Chief B.B. Apagu has made significant contributions to the development of the agricultural sector in Nigeria. He is known for his pioneering work in the cultivation of wheat in the country.
- Aper Aku: Aper Aku was the first elected Governor of Benue State, serving from 1979 to 1983. He played a crucial role in the development of the state and is highly regarded for his contributions to education and infrastructure.
- Paul Orhii: Dr. Paul Orhii is a renowned pharmacist and former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). He is known for his efforts in combating counterfeit drugs in Nigeria.
- Tor Tiv: The Tor Tiv is the traditional ruler of the Tiv people. The current Tor Tiv, Professor James Ortese Ayatse, is highly respected and plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Tiv people.
- Dr. Iyorwuese Hagher: A seasoned diplomat and politician, Dr. Iyorwuese Hagher has served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico and the Philippines. He is also a renowned writer and has received numerous awards for his literary work.
- Imande Iya: Imande Iya is a talented musician and a leading figure in the Tiv music scene. He has won several awards and is known for his unique fusion of traditional Tiv music with contemporary sounds.
- Doo Adekomaiya: Reverend Doo Adekomaiya was a prominent religious leader and evangelist. He founded the Universal Christian Church in Nigeria and played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity among the Tiv people.
- Dr. Cecilia Ibru: Dr. Cecilia Ibru is a successful businesswoman and philanthropist. She is the former Managing Director of Oceanic Bank International and has played a significant role in promoting entrepreneurship and women empowerment in Nigeria.
- Samuel Ortom: Samuel Ortom is the current Governor of Benue State and has made remarkable contributions in the fight against herdsmen-farmer conflicts. He has also been instrumental in promoting agriculture and food security in the state.
Most Famous Tiv Celebrities
Here is a list of famous celebrities who have Tiv roots:
- Terence Tao: Born in Adelaide, Australia, Terence Tao is a renowned mathematician of Tiv descent. He has made significant contributions to various fields of mathematics, including partial differential equations, harmonic analysis, and number theory. Tao has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Fields Medal, which is considered the highest honor in mathematics.
- Saleh Haruna: Saleh Haruna is a Nigerian actor who hails from the Tiv ethnic group. He has appeared in various Nollywood movies, gaining fame for his versatile acting skills. Haruna is known for his ability to portray different characters convincingly, whether in comedy or drama.
- Tor Tiv James Ayatse: James Ayatse holds the traditional title of Tor Tiv, which is the paramount ruler of the Tiv people in Nigeria. He is a highly respected figure who plays a significant role in maintaining the cultural heritage and traditions of the Tiv ethnic group.
- Moses Orshio Adasu: Moses Adasu served as the Governor of Benue State in Nigeria from 1999 to 2003. Born into a Tiv family, Adasu was a respected politician and leader who worked towards the development of his state and the welfare of its people.
- Veronica Adeleke (née Imade): Veronica Adeleke, more commonly known as Imade, is the mother of Nigerian music superstar, Davido. Although her son has gained worldwide fame, it is worth noting that Imade is of Tiv descent, adding another prominent name to the list of Tiv celebrities.
Explore the rich tapestry of celebrities with Tiv ancestry listed above. Delve into the fascinating world of their diverse cultural backgrounds and achievements. For a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the latest celebrity news and updates on renowned figures from various fields, immerse yourself in the content available at Wikipedia.org.
Factsheet About Tiv People
| Region | Country | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Benue | Nigeria | 2,500,000 |
| Taraba | Nigeria | 1,200,000 |
| Nasarawa | Nigeria | 800,000 |
| Plateau | Nigeria | 500,000 |
| Cameroon | Cameroon | 300,000 |
Tiv Ethnicity: References and Resources
Here are some references to dig deeper about the Tiv ethnic group:
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“The Tiv of Central Nigeria” by Robert G. Bailey: This book provides an in-depth study of the Tiv people, their history, culture, social organization, belief systems, and contemporary issues. It is considered a seminal work on the Tiv ethnic group.
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“The Tiv of Nigeria: The Cultural Politics of a Nation” edited by Adokiye Bankole, Inih Ebong, and Terhemba Wuam: This collection of essays explores various aspects of Tiv history, culture, religion, politics, and socioeconomic development. It offers a comprehensive look at the Tiv people and their place in Nigeria.
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“Tiv Religion in the Twentieth Century” by Paul Staudinger: This book delves into the religious practices and beliefs of the Tiv people, focusing on the changes and adaptations that have occurred over the 20th century. It explores the role of Christianity and Islam in Tiv society.
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“Tiv Identity and Socio-Political Change: Perspectives on the Tiv in the 21st Century” edited by Terhemba Wuam and Adokiye Bankole: This collection of essays examines the contemporary challenges faced by the Tiv people, such as political marginalization, conflict resolution, gender dynamics, and globalization. It provides insights into the Tiv’s struggle for identity and development in the 21st century.
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“Tiv Land Tenure: Explorations in the Dynamics of Tiv Society” by Andrew J. Smith: This book explores the complex land tenure system of the Tiv people, analyzing the social, economic, and political implications of land ownership and inheritance. It offers valuable insights into the Tiv’s relationship with their land.
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