Nde-Gbite in Nigeria

Introduction / History

Nde-Gbite (aka Biti, Viti, B t , V t ) is a stable indigenous language of Nigeria. It is a Narrow Grassfields language of the Niger-Congo family. Nde-Gbite is spoken near the town of Antere in Sardauna LGA (Local Government Areas) in Taraba State, Nigeria, about a half kilometer from the Cameroon border.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The major occupation in Sardauna is agriculture. People grow maize, rice, sorghum, millet and cassava. Their cash crops include coffee, tea, ground nuts, cotton and yams. They also herd cattle, sheep and goats. Some breed rabbits and pigs. Communities along the river fish all year round. Others make a living through pottery, cloth-weaving, dyeing, mat-making, carving, embroidery and blacksmithing.

What Are Their Beliefs?

More than half of the Nde-Gbite people have become Christians. Islam and traditional African religions are also influential in the area. Some mix beliefs from these other religions with the Christian faith.

What Are Their Needs?

Nde-Gbite is believed to be the first language spoken by all in the ethnic community. Survey work would be helpful in assessing in what domains Nde-Gbite, English, Hausa, and neighboring languages are being used. Community leaders may be interested in language development to preserve their language. They may consider attending workshops as they become available. That would expose participants to language vitality and potential short-term development and translation projects.

Prayer Points

Pray Nde-Gbite community and church leaders will pursue oral or written translation projects to provide their people with God s word in their heart language.
Pray for hearts to be open to receiving the one who is the rock and fortress.

Text Source:   Joshua Project