The Nigerian Jews: a lost tribe finding its place

When most people think of Jewish communities around the world, they tend to imagine European Ashkenazi Jews or Middle Eastern Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews. But far beyond these familiar narratives exists a fascinating, lesser-known chapter of the Jewish story - in Nigeria. The Nigerian Jews, often referred to as the Igbo Jews, are part of a growing movement of African communities reconnecting with - or discovering - Judaism.

Nigerian Jews praying in a synagogue.

A brief historical background

The Igbo people (pronounced "ee-bo") are one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, numbering around 35 million. Among them, thousands identify as Jews, believing themselves to be descendants of the Lost Tribes of Israel - specifically, the Tribe of Gad, Zebulun, Menashe, or Ephraim, depending on varying oral traditions.

While there is no conclusive archaeological or genetic proof of this link, many Igbo Jews maintain that their ancestors were Israelites who migrated through North and West Africa after the destruction of the First or Second Temple. Others suggest their Jewish identity may have evolved through centuries of contact with Jewish traders or influences via North African Jewish communities.

Rebirth of a forgotten identity

The modern revival of Judaism among some Igbo communities gained momentum in the 20th century, particularly after the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), also known as the Biafran War. The devastation of the conflict - in which the Igbo people unsuccessfully attempted to secede from Nigeria - triggered a wave of spiritual searching. Some Igbo began to re-examine their traditions and found striking similarities between their ancient customs and those of the Hebrew Bible.

This led to a rediscovery of Jewish prayers, kosher laws, circumcision rituals on the eighth day, and a sense of shared identity with Jews worldwide. Today, estimates suggest there are between 5.000 to 10.000 practicing Jews in Nigeria, spread across dozens of synagogues and community centers.

Customs and traditions

Igbo Jews observe Shabbat, celebrate Jewish holidays like Passover, Sukkot, and Yom Kippur, and follow kosher dietary laws. While some of their practices are informed by Orthodox Judaism, much of their tradition is homegrown, passed down orally or inspired by biblical texts.

Their synagogues are often modest, built by hand with local materials, and Torah scrolls - when available - are cherished and protected. In the absence of rabbis, community leaders known as nze or rosh kehilla take on spiritual roles, often self-taught or educated through correspondence with Jewish organizations abroad.

Challenges and recognition

Despite their deep commitment, Nigerian Jews remain largely unrecognized by mainstream Jewish institutions, including the Israeli Rabbinate. This lack of recognition affects their ability to make Aliyah (immigrate to Israel under the Law of Return) unless they undergo a formal conversion.

Security is another concern. In 2021, the Nigerian government cracked down on the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a separatist movement with no official ties to the Igbo Jewish community, yet many Nigerian Jews faced increased scrutiny and suspicion due to perceived associations. Several community leaders have been arrested or intimidated.

Yet, despite the obstacles, they persist.

Connections with Israel

Over the years, there have been growing ties between Nigerian Jews and Israeli or Diaspora Jewish organizations. Groups like Kulanu, Shavei Israel, and Be’chol Lashon have supported the community with religious texts, education, and sometimes even visits from rabbis and teachers. A few Igbo Jews have managed to study or visit Israel, bringing back knowledge and new resources to strengthen their home communities.

In 2022, an Igbo Jewish delegation participated in a global online event for African Jewish communities - a small but powerful symbol of inclusion.

Why their story matters

The story of the Nigerian Jews is not just about a people returning to a forgotten faith - it’s about identity, resilience, and the universal longing for spiritual belonging. In a world where Judaism is often narrowly defined by geography or ethnicity, their journey challenges our assumptions and expands our understanding of what it means to be Jewish.

As with other emerging Jewish communities across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, the Nigerian Jews remind us that Judaism is not a closed club, but a dynamic faith rooted in memory, tradition, and a shared future.