The Bwazza people are an ethnic group in Nigeria. They are often associated with the larger linguistic and cultural designation of Mbula-Bwazza.

Here are the key things to know about the Bwazza Tribe:

1. Location and Demographics

• Region: The Bwazza people are primarily found in Adamawa State, in the North-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
• Local Government Areas (LGAs): They inhabit areas like Numan, Demsa, and Lamurde Local Government Areas, often settling along the lowlands of the Benue River.
• Population: The larger Mbula-Bwazza people group is estimated to number around 138,000 to 200,000 people.

2. Language

• Language Name: The people speak the Mbula-Bwazza language, which is part of the Jarawan group of languages within the Niger-Congo language family.
• Dialect: The name “Bwazza” itself is a dialect of the Mbula-Bwazza language, alongside others like Mbula, Tambo, Kula, and Gwamba.

3. Culture and Livelihood

• Primary Occupation: The Bwazza are traditionally farmers, fishers, and hunters, occupying the riverine lowlands along the Benue River.
• Traditional Political/Spiritual Structure: The related Mbula people, for example, have a national cult called the “Ngelu,” based at Tambo, with a priest who holds significant politico-religious authority. This highlights a strong traditional system blending spirituality and earthly leadership.
• Respectful Forms: Respectful language forms are noted, especially when interacting with elders in the community.

4. Religion

• Traditional Religion: The primary traditional religious worldview practiced by the Mbula-Bwazza is Animism, which is a belief that natural entities (animals, plants, objects) possess a spiritual essence.
• Christianity: There is also a notable presence of Christianity, with resources like the Bible and gospel materials being translated into the Mbula-Bwazza language.