People
Who they are
The Oron, also called Oro, live in southeastern Nigeria, in Akwa Ibom State, in the local government areas of Oron, Udung Uko and Urue-Offrong-Oruko, on the western bank of the mouth of the Cross River. They speak the Oro language. The name Oron is also used for a larger group of peoples in the region; this text focuses on Oro speakers.
Where they live
1
Country
168K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Nigeria Partially reached
|
100%
|
165.000 |
How they live
Oron life is organized into nine clans, called afaha, and each clan has its own traditions, deities and stories. Oron lies at the mouth of the Cross River, and fishing in these waters is an important activity: in 2013, fishermen at Oron beach told a Nigerian news agency that pirates were attacking boats and stealing engines.
What they believe
The vast majority of the Oron identify as Christian. The people’s older religion left its mark in wooden figures called ekpu. Until the 1930s, making an ekpu figure was part of the process through which a highly respected elder came to be honored as an ancestor. The oldest clan member cared for the shrine where figures representing several generations of ancestors were kept.
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.
Oro
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)94%
Evangelicals9%
Needs
Safety for those who make their living from fishing is a concrete need in Oron. In 2013, a boat owner reported that his boat had been attacked and its engine stolen, and the president of the Akwa Ibom artisanal fishermen’s association said that two outboard motors had been stolen from Oron fishermen two weeks earlier. The association called on governments to combat the pirates, who also attacked, kidnapped and sometimes killed people returning from Cameroon through the region’s waters.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the protection of Oron fishermen from attacks and boat theft.
Pray for the livelihoods of families who depend on fishing in Oron waters.
Pray that the Scriptures in Oro will reach homes and churches.
Pray for steadfast faith and service to others among Oron Christians.
Pray that the leaders of Oron churches will teach the Bible faithfully.
Pray for Oron
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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