Wapan
The Jukun Language
The voice of Kwararafa — a Benue-Congo language carrying the prayers, proverbs, and poetry of the Jukun people.
At a Glance
A Benue-Congo language with deep roots
Jukun (Wapan) is the linguistic anchor of a wider Jukunoid family, with related varieties spoken across central Nigeria and into Cameroon.
Family
Niger-Congo · Benue-Congo · Jukunoid
Native Name
Wapan
Speakers
~500,000+ (multiple dialects)
Region
Taraba, Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Gombe
Writing
Latin script, standardised orthography
Status
Active · revitalisation underway
Learn
Everyday phrases in Wapan
A starter set of greetings and common expressions — the full dictionary, audio lessons, and grammar guides are coming to the Language Center.
| Jukun (Wapan) | English | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Asorobi | Good morning | Standard greeting in the morning |
| Aronwabi | Good afternoon | Used through midday |
| Asunbi | Good evening | After sunset |
| Anyu nde? | How are you? | Common informal greeting |
| Anyu kpa | I am well | Standard reply |
| Yabi | Thank you | An everyday courtesy |
| Apa | Father | Term of respect for elders |
| Ayi | Mother | Used widely across dialects |
| Aku Uka | The King (of Wukari) | Sacred royal title |
Preservation
A language for the next generation
The Jukun Language Center will offer a full dictionary, audio pronunciations, grammar lessons, children's books, and an open corpus for researchers — so that Wapan is not only remembered, but spoken, taught, and loved.