17/07/2026
BEROM
The Berom People of Plateau State: A Historical and Cultural Study.
Abstract
The Berom people are one of the largest indigenous ethnic groups in Plateau State, Nigeria. They are predominantly found in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos South, Jos North, and parts of Bassa Local Government Areas. The Berom are known for their rich cultural heritage, peaceful nature, strong agricultural tradition, and well-organized traditional leadership system. Their history reflects resilience, unity, and a deep connection to their ancestral land. Today, while Christianity is the dominant religion among the Berom, many traditional customs and cultural practices continue to shape their identity. This study examines the history, kingship, chieftaincy, dances, cultural attire, marriage customs, and burial rites of the Berom people.
Introduction
The Berom are among the earliest if not first known inhabitants of the Jos Plateau. Oral traditions and historical research indicate that they have occupied the Jos Plateau for centuries, developing thriving farming communities and a distinctive cultural identity. The Berom language belongs to the Plateau branch of the Benue-Congo language family.
Agriculture has always been the backbone of the Berom economy. They cultivate crops such as Irish potatoes, maize, millet, acha (fonio), vegetables, beans, and yams. The fertile highlands of the Jos Plateau have enabled them to become one of Nigeria's leading producers of potatoes and vegetables.
The Berom people are renowned for their hospitality, craftsmanship, music, festivals, and commitment to preserving their traditions. Despite the influence of modernization and urbanization, they continue to celebrate their cultural heritage through festivals, traditional institutions, and communal ceremonies.
Key Definition of Terms.
Berom
Berom refers to the indigenous ethnic group of Plateau State and the language spoken by the people.
Culture
Culture is the total way of life of a people, including their beliefs, customs, traditions, language, values, arts, and social institutions.
Tradition
Tradition refers to customs and practices handed down from one generation to another.
Kingship
Kingship is the traditional institution through which a paramount ruler governs and preserves the customs and unity of the people.
Chief
A chief is a traditional leader who administers districts or villages and assists the paramount ruler in maintaining peace and order.
Marriage
Marriage is the culturally recognized union of a man and a woman, bringing together two families and strengthening community ties.
Kingship and Its Stool
The traditional ruler of the Berom people is known as the Gbong Gwom Jos, one of the most respected traditional rulers in Plateau State. The stool of the Gbong Gwom serves as the highest traditional authority among the Berom people.
The Gbong Gwom is regarded as:
The custodian of Berom culture and traditions.
A symbol of unity among the Berom people.
A mediator in disputes and conflicts.
A promoter of peace, development, and cultural preservation.
A representative of the Berom people in matters concerning traditional governance.
The institution of the Gbong Gwom has evolved over time, particularly during the colonial era when traditional governance structures became more formalized. Succession to the stool follows established customs involving royal families, kingmakers, and traditional councils.
Chiefs
The Berom traditional system includes district heads, village heads, clan leaders, and title holders who work closely with the Gbong Gwom.
Their responsibilities include:
Maintaining peace and security.
Settling disputes over land and family matters.
Preserving cultural values and sacred traditions.
Organizing traditional festivals and ceremonies.
Advising the paramount ruler.
Encouraging community development.
Traditional titles are also conferred on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the welfare of the Berom people.
Dance
Dance is an important aspect of Berom culture and accompanies festivals, harvest celebrations, weddings, and community gatherings.
Some well-known Berom cultural dances include:
Nzem Berom Dance
Performed during the annual Nzem Berom Festival, this dance celebrates the unity, history, and cultural heritage of the Berom people.
Harvest Dance
This dance is performed after successful farming seasons to thank God and celebrate abundance.
Warrior Dance
Young men perform energetic dances carrying traditional weapons, symbolizing the courage and strength of Berom warriors who defended their communities.
Traditional musical instruments include:
Large drums
Wooden xylophones
Flutes
Iron gongs
Horns
Hand rattles
Songs are sung in the Berom language and often recount historical events, praise heroes, and teach moral values.
Cultural Attires
Traditional Berom attire reflects elegance, identity, and pride.
For Men
Handwoven wrappers or embroidered traditional gowns.
Animal skin or ceremonial garments for cultural displays.
Beaded necklaces.
Traditional caps.
Leather sandals.
Walking sticks or ceremonial staffs.
For Women
Beautiful woven wrappers.
Colorful beads around the neck, wrists, and waist.
Decorative headscarves.
Brass ornaments and bangles.
Traditional hairstyles.
During festivals such as Nzem Berom, participants wear elaborate traditional clothing adorned with beads and cultural symbols that showcase the richness of Berom heritage.
Marriage Rites
Marriage among the Berom is a respected institution that unites not only two individuals but also their extended families.
The traditional process includes:
Courtship
A young man expresses interest in a woman, often with the involvement of both families.
Family Investigation
Both families seek information about each other's character, family background, and reputation.
Introduction
Representatives of both families formally meet to discuss the proposed marriage.
Bride Price Negotiation
The groom's family presents symbolic gifts, which may include:
Goats or sheep.
Chickens.
Farm produce such as yams or grains.
Local drinks.
Clothing.
Money.
Traditional Wedding Ceremony
The marriage is celebrated with prayers, music, dancing, feasting, and the formal presentation of the bride to the groom's family. Today, many Berom couples also hold Christian wedding ceremonies after completing the traditional rites.
Burial Rites
The Berom traditionally regard death as a passage from earthly life to the world of the ancestors. Funeral practices vary depending on the age, status, and circumstances of the deceased.
Preparation
The body is respectfully washed, dressed, and prepared by family members.
Wake Keeping
Relatives, friends, and community members gather to mourn, pray, sing hymns or traditional songs, and celebrate the life of the deceased.
Funeral Ceremony
Christian funeral services are common today, though some families also observe traditional customs that honor their ancestors and cultural heritage.
Burial
The deceased is buried in a family compound or cemetery according to family tradition and religious beliefs.
Memorial Gathering
Families often hold remembrance gatherings where prayers are offered, meals are shared, and the life and legacy of the deceased are celebrated.
Conclusion
The Berom people have a rich history and a vibrant cultural heritage that continues to thrive despite the challenges of modernization. Their traditional institution, led by the Gbong Gwom Jos, remains central to preserving unity, justice, and cultural identity. Through their festivals, dances, attire, marriage customs, and burial rites, the Berom continue to celebrate values of community, respect, hard work, and hospitality.
As one of the principal indigenous ethnic groups of Plateau State, the Berom have made significant contributions to the social, cultural, agricultural, and political development of the state. Preserving their language, traditions, and history is essential for future generations and for maintaining Nigeria's rich cultural diversity.
Lonny John Temple
