Overview
The Karekare are a Chadic-speaking people of north-eastern Nigeria, found especially in Yobe State and parts of Bauchi and Gombe states. They share regional ties with Bade, Ngizim, Hausa, Fulani and other Sahelian communities.
Origins and history
Karekare settlement history is linked to the western Lake Chad and north-eastern savanna region, where farming, trade and Islam shaped community life. Their location placed them within historical networks connected to Bornu, Hausa-speaking markets and local emirates.
Social structure
Karekare communities are organised through family compounds, village heads, ward leaders and emirate-linked authority structures. Farming and market networks remain important.
Traditional religion
Islam is dominant among Karekare communities today. Older customs connected with land, ancestors, healing and local ceremonies continue in some forms within family and community life.
Notable customs
Karekare culture includes language identity, farming traditions, Islamic scholarship in some towns, music, praise poetry and marriage ceremonies shaped by wider north-eastern Nigerian culture.
Where they live
Neighbouring and related peoples
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