Emai in Nigeria
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| People Name: | Emai |
| Country: | Nigeria |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 333,000 |
| World Population: | 333,000 |
| Primary Language: | Emai-Iuleha-Ora |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 95.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 45.00 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Guinean |
| Affinity Bloc: | Sub-Saharan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Emai are an Edoid ethnic group living mainly in Owan East area of Edo State in southern Nigeria. Their language belongs to the Edoid branch of the Niger-Congo family. Oral traditions say the community traces its origin to a founder named Ima who migrated from the Benin region centuries ago and established settlements among related Afemai peoples along the Owan River. The Emai language is called Emai-Iuleha-Ora.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Most Emai communities are rural and centered on farming. Families grow crops such as yam, cassava, maize, and palm products while also raising goats, pigs, and sheep. Extended families live close together, and elders guide community decisions. Festivals such as the Eseokhai and masquerade celebrations mark the agricultural cycle and honor ancestors, often including music, dancing, and communal meals.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Emai identify with Christianity, though varying levels of evangelical faith exist. Traditional beliefs still influence many communities, including reverence for ancestors and spiritual beings. Among Edo-related peoples, a supreme creator God is acknowledged while offerings may be made to lesser spirits connected with nature and daily life.
What Are Their Needs?
Stronger discipleship and biblical teaching would help believers grow in mature faith and move beyond nominal Christianity. Local churches would benefit from trained leaders and Scripture resources in the Emai language. Economic opportunities and improved education could strengthen families and reduce rural hardship.
Prayer Points
Pray asking God to strengthen churches with sound teaching and leadership.
Pray also for economic stability, education for young people, and unity among families and villages.
Pray for the faithful translation and wide distribution of the Bible, evangelism materials, and discipleship resources in the Emai-Iuleha-Ora language.
Pray that the Emai believers will preach the gospel, teach the Bible, plant churches, and make disciples of their own people and beyond.