Waja

Joseph Mangut PhD,
Department of Archaeology
and Heritage Studies,
University of Jos,
Nigeria.
Email: [email protected]

Abstract
The peopling of the Jos Plateau has generated a lot of controversy. Historical
studies of the area have tended to emphasise recent origins and migrations of the
various groups to the plateau which over time led to mutual suspicion and
hostilities among them as a result of scarce resources. This paper reviews some of
these claims and investigates some of the early populations and occupation sites
with a view to shedding light on the nature of origins, migrations and urbanisation
problems in the area. It suggests that the Jos Plateau has a long settlement antiquity
and that migrations to the area have been in several waves right into the colonial
era resulting into the fusion of a number of ethnic groups belonging to both the
Chadic and the Benue-Congo speakers in an attempt to bring about urbanisation. It
therefore concludes that the integration of the various groups in the area is the best
option for a lasting peace and development which are very critical in urbanisation.
Key Words: Migrations, Urbanisation, Jos Plateau, Ronkulere, Chadic, Benue-
Congo.