Published January 2nd, 2025
By The Newspointer
The Mambilla people are one of the oldest ethnic groups in present-day Nigeria and Cameroon, with their homeland primarily located in Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria, and extending into the Adamawa and Northwest regions of Cameroon. They speak Mambilla (Mambila) language, which belongs to the Bantoid group of the Niger-Congo language family.

Historians believe the Mambilla people have lived in their current region for thousands of years, predating many other ethnic migrations into the area. Oral traditions suggest that they originated from the Central African region and settled in the highlands of the Mambilla Plateau due to its fertile land and favorable climate.
Before colonial rule, the Mambilla people lived in small, clan-based settlements without a centralized political authority. Each village or clan had its own leaders and council of elders who managed disputes and organized communal activities. Their leadership was decentralized, and decisions were made collectively.
However, some powerful clans, such as the Ba, Kaka, and Mvop, played dominant roles in local leadership.
The Mambilla Chiefdom as a centralized institution was established under British colonial rule in the early 20th century. The British adopted the Indirect Rule system, where they appointed a single paramount ruler to oversee the Mambilla people. This was a departure from the traditional decentralized leadership system.
The first recognized Chief of Mambilla (Mai Mambilla) was appointed during the colonial era, and since then, the chieftaincy has continued to exist as an important institution in local governance and cultural preservation.
The Chief of Mambilla (Mai Mambilla) serves as:
A unifying figure among the Mambilla clans.
A cultural and traditional leader responsible for preserving Mambilla customs.
A mediator in disputes and conflicts.

A representative of the people in relations with the government.
Today, the Mambilla people continue to maintain their traditions while integrating into modern Nigerian society. The Mambilla Plateau, known for its cool climate and vast tea plantations, remains an economic hub. The Mambilla Hydro-Electric Power Project, a major government project, is expected to transform the region.
Despite some historical conflicts with neighboring groups, the Mambilla people remain one of the most culturally distinct ethnic groups in Nigeria, with their chieftaincy playing a crucial role in their identity and governance.
One of the most notable Chiefs of Mambilla in recent history is Dr. Shehu Audu Baju II, who has played a significant role in the leadership and development of the Mambilla people.
Dr. Shehu Audu Baju II – The Chief of Mambilla
Dr. Shehu Audu Baju II hails from a respected royal lineage within the Mambilla ethnic group. His family has traditionally played key roles in the leadership of the Mambilla people.
He became the paramount ruler (Mai Mambilla) after the passing of his predecessor.
His appointment was based on both traditional inheritance and government recognition, as the chiefdom is part of the official traditional leadership structure in Taraba State, Nigeria.

As the Mai Mambilla, Dr. Shehu Audu Baju II has been instrumental in:
Preserving Mambilla traditions by ensuring that cultural festivals, language, and customs are upheld.
Promoting peace and unity among the diverse ethnic groups in the Mambilla Plateau, including the Fulani, Kaka, and other indigenous groups.
Encouraging education and development, advocating for better infrastructure, schools, and economic opportunities for the Mambilla people.
Engaging with the government on matters affecting his people, including the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, which is a major national development project in the region.
The Mambilla region has experienced ethnic tensions between the Mambilla people and the Fulani herders over land and grazing rights. The chief has played a mediating role in these disputes.
There have been calls for greater political representation of the Mambilla people in Taraba State and Nigeria.

Efforts to balance modern governance with traditional rule have been a key part of his leadership.
Dr. Shehu Audu Baju II is widely regarded as a progressive and diplomatic leader who has worked to modernize the Mambilla Chiefdom while maintaining its rich cultural heritage. His reign continues to shape the future of the Mambilla people.

The NEWSPOINTER is among Nigeria’s leading online news and information delivery. Conveying fresh, factual and reliable news from our Abuja & Jalingo headquarters.
Whether you turn to the Newspointer for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
Contact: editor@ishakudanzumi1@gmail.com
© 2024 The Newspointer.com.ng – All Rights Reserved.
STAY WITH NEWSPOINTER NIGERIA. YOUR NUMBER 1 FAVOURITE NEWS SOURCE. We are on X, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Online Editor: Prince Hassan Ishaku, ishakudanzumi1@gmail.com
Tel: +2349043141414, +2347071144444.