The Esan people, or Ishan people (Esan: Ẹ̀bhò Ẹ̀sán) are an ethnic group of southwestern Nigeria who speak the Esan language. The Esan are traditionally agriculturalists, trado-medical practitionals, mercenary warriors and hunters. They cultivate yams, cassava, maize, groundnut, bananas, oranges, plantains, and various vegetables.