Efik

EFI

wider communication

Alternate Names: Calabar

Status Notes: Used as LWC throughout the Cross River State in all languages in the church; also, in market, business, and media domains. The Efik Bible, published in 1868, was the very first translation into any Nigerian language and is used widely throughout the region.

Genealogy:

Niger-Congo
Atlantic-Congo
Volta-Congo
Benue-Congo
Cross River
Delta Cross
Lower Cross
Obolo
Efik

Demographics: 400,000 in Nigeria (1998). Population total all countries: 405,260. L2 users: 2,000,000 in Nigeria. Decreasing as an L2.

Language Use: The major dialect and language of the Ibibio-Efik group. Used in adult education, university courses. All domains. All ages. Used as L2 by Anaang [anw], Anaang [anw], Efutop [ofu], Ekit [eke], Ibibio [ibb], Ibino [ibn], Kiong [kkm], Korop [krp], Nde-Nsele-Nta [ndd], Oro [orx].

Language Development: Taught in primary and secondary schools. Radio programs. TV. Dictionary. Grammar. Bible: 1868–1995.

Typology: SVO.

Writing System: Latin

Nation of Origin: Nigeria

Other Comments: Christian.