Rivers State is the sixth-largest geographic area in Nigeria according to 2006 census data. [1] The state has an indigenously diverse population with major riverine and upland divisions. The dominant tribes are: Ikwerre, Ogoni, and Ijaw, [2] representing three dominant Ethno-Linguistic blocs in the State, in no particular order (Igboid, Ijoid and Ogoni). Upland Rivers State, covering about 45%, is composed mainly of Ogba & Iwhuruogha / ancient Bini speaking people, and Ogoni . The riverine, including most of the state's towns and villages surrounded by water, is moderately inhabited. It covers approximately 39% of the total land mass and is home to the Ijaw people. [3]
This list refers to the various autochthonous ethnic groups residing within Rivers State's boundaries in addition to its upland and riverine areas.