Bokyi, Nki in Nigeria
Photo Source:
Anonymous
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| People Name: | Bokyi, Nki |
| Country: | Nigeria |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 314,000 |
| World Population: | 322,300 |
| Primary Language: | Bokyi |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 98.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 35.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Benue |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Nki, also called the Bokyi or Boki people, are an ethnic group in Nigeria's Cross River State who speak the Bokyi language, part of the Bendi language cluster. They have lived for generations in the rainforests along the Cameroon border, traditionally organized into clans with strong ties to their land and customs.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Most Bokyi are farmers, tending yams, cassava, palm produce and other crops that sustain families and local markets. Community life revolves around extended family networks and shared labor in fields, meals and ceremonies. They celebrate harvests like the New Yam Festival with food, music and dance, integrating traditional costumes and rhythms that affirm identity and unity.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Today nearly all Bokyi identify as Christians, with many participating in church life and celebrating Christian festivals of thanksgiving, baptism and Easter, while a small minority maintain aspects of traditional beliefs alongside faith in Christ. The Bible and Jesus Film are available in their language, aiding discipleship.
What Are Their Needs?
The Bokyi people desire deeper discipleship and vibrant Jesus-centered community life that bears fruit in every village and family. They seek opportunities for leadership training among believers so that local churches can continue to grow in faith and maturity. Physical needs include sustainable agricultural support, youth mentorship, and access to quality education that equips the next generation to serve Christ in society.
Prayer Points
Pray that Bokyi believers will be bold witnesses of Christ's love within their families and communities.
Pray for strengthened marriages and families as gospel values take deeper root.
Pray for the young people to have fruitful encounters with Jesus, and for provision in agriculture and schooling so that physical needs are met with wisdom and hope.
Pray that soon Bokyi Christians will become Christ's ambassadors to ethnic communities that lack an adequate gospel witness.