Tarok in Nigeria

Introduction / History

The Tarok are an agrarian people of southeast Plateau State in central Nigeria, calling their land Tarok and language Tarok. They coalesced over centuries from diverse groups such as Pe, Ngas, Jukun, Boghom, Tel (Montol) and Tal, forming a distinct society long before colonial contact. Their oral traditions trace early settlement and gradual blending of clans across the hills and plains south-east of Jos, where farming life still dominates.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Tarok families are rooted in farming, growing guinea corn, millet, yams, rice, cassava and other staples. Women and men share labor, with women often leading in food cultivation and markets. Marriage customs include unique expressions like planting a tree to symbolize union. Celebrations such as the Ilum Otarok cultural day unite communities in song, dance, and heritage displays. Meals include amwam (porridge) with soups like groundnut and local greens.

What Are Their Beliefs?

While many Tarok now identify as Christians, traditional beliefs remain influential. Ancestral veneration through the Orìm cult still holds prestige, with sacred groves and masked figures playing roles in community rites. These practices reflect deep respect for spiritual forces thought to guide and protect clans alongside Christian faith.

What Are Their Needs?

Sustained discipleship and prayer support are important so that communities can grow in Christ and engage neighbors with the gospel in culturally sensitive ways. Strengthening access to Scripture and local church networks will help believers stand firm amid traditional pressures. Empowering youth with education and meaningful livelihoods tied to Gospel values can reduce economic vulnerability and enhance community resilience. Equipping local leaders to serve both spiritual and social needs fosters hope and unity for the future.

In Nigeria, Christians suffer significant and severe persecution – to such a degree that Nigeria has been the most violent place in the world for followers of Jesus for several years. In northern Nigeria, 12 states have implemented Islamic law, creating a system where Christians live as second-class citizens, and conversion from Islam can be severely punished. Nigerian Christians need God's protection and the Holy Spirit to move in their communities so they don't retaliate in the flesh.

Prayer Points

Pray that Tarok believers will deepen in faith and reach their clans with Christ's love, that ancestral spirituality would be confronted with the truth of the gospel, and that families will be transformed by God's grace.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will move many Tarok Christians to become Christ's ambassadors to those without a gospel witness.
Pray for physical needs such as food security during dry seasons, access to quality education, and peaceful resolution of local conflicts.
Pray for a faithful translation and wide distribution of the complete Bible, discipleship materials, and evangelism resources in the Tarok language.

Text Source:   Joshua Project