People
Who they are
The Chamba Leko, also called Samba Leko, live in small groups in northeastern Nigeria, in Adamawa, Taraba and Benue states, and in Cameroon’s North Region near the Nigerian border. The Chamba are a people with two very different languages, Leko and Daka, but all identify as Chamba. Leko speakers live at the eastern end of Chamba territory, largely on the Cameroonian side.
Where they live
2
Countries
186K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Nigeria Partially reached
|
68.1%
|
124.000 |
Cameroon Partially reached
|
31.9%
|
58.000 |
How they live
The Chamba live in villages in open country and grow sorghum, their staple food, as well as cocoa and coffee to sell. They are known for pottery, metalwork and sculpture. Fiber and wooden masks, including the famous bush buffalo mask, appear at funerals, circumcision rites and the installation of chiefs. Clans have chiefs who may be men, women or both.
What they believe
In Nigeria, most Chamba Leko follow traditional religion, with smaller numbers of Christians and Muslims. In Cameroon, Islam is the largest religion, and there are many Christians as well as followers of traditional religion. In traditional Chamba belief, the creator is Su, the sun god, who does not involve himself in people’s lives. The dead, called wurumbu, live underground and are considered wiser and more powerful than the living.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Samba Leko
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)30%
Evangelicals5.6%
Needs
Chamba Leko Christians live among neighbors who follow traditional religion and Islam, and faith in Jesus coexists with old rituals and diviners. They need biblical teaching in their own language and leaders who can explain the gospel clearly within Chamba culture.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for Scripture to be taught in Samba Leko in communities in Nigeria and Cameroon.
Pray for Chamba Leko Christians in Nigeria to grow in faith while living among neighbors who follow traditional religion.
Pray that Chamba Leko churches in Cameroon will teach the Bible and welcome those who want to know Jesus.
Pray for Chamba Leko leaders to share the gospel clearly and respectfully among Muslims and followers of traditional religion.
Pray for Chamba Leko
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar