People
Who they are
The Lela Dakakari live in northwestern Nigeria, in the local government areas of Zuru, Donko-Wasagu and Sakaba in Kebbi State. Many also live in Niger State. They call themselves Lelna and their language C’lela. Dakakari is the name by which outsiders know them.
C’lela is spoken at home and in the villages, while Hausa is used at the market and with people from other groups. Some young people, especially in towns and cities, speak only Hausa. Lelna authors have written children’s books in C’lela, which students receive at school.
Where they live
1
Country
202K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Nigeria Partially reached
|
100%
|
198.000 |
How they live
The Lelna are mainly farmers and hunters, and they grow sorghum and millet. Many families have moved to Niger State in search of good land. They return to their places of origin for funerals and celebrations, maintaining family ties in this way.
What they believe
The Lelna follow traditional beliefs, Christianity and Islam, with traditional religion having the most followers. In this religion, ancestors are seen as intermediaries who carry prayers to the Supreme Being, who is considered distant. Research conducted in Zuru in 2007 and 2011 showed that many Lelna Christians and Muslims continue traditional practices.
Christianity reached Zuru in the 1920s and 1930s. The first significant Catholic presence came in 1951, and several Catholic churches have been built since the 1960s. There are also other Christian churches in the region.
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.
C’lela
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)20%
Evangelicals3%
Needs
Christian teaching needs to reach families who speak C’lela and young people who speak only Hausa. Christians need clear teaching on what the Bible says about spirits and ancestors so that they put their trust in Jesus.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the teaching of the Scriptures in C’lela in Lelna churches and families.
Pray for young Lelna people who speak only Hausa to understand the gospel.
Pray for Lelna Christians to learn to trust Jesus as they face beliefs about spirits.
Pray for churches in the Zuru region to support Lelna families and their young people.
Pray for Lela Dakakari
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar