Igala is a language of the
Yoruboid branch of the
Volta–Niger language family, spoken by the
Igala ethnic group of
Nigeria. In 1989, an estimated 800,000 spoke Igala, primarily in
Kogi State,
Delta State and
Edo State. Dialects include Ebu, Idah, Ankpa, Dekina,
Ogugu, Ibaji, Ife. The Agatu,
Idoma, and
Bassa people use Igala for primary school. Igala is related to
Yoruba. The Igala language as well as Igala culture and tradition has influenced other languages and cultures around the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers