Karekare is classified among the Bole-Tangale languages, which together with Bure, Deno, Gero, Geruma, Galambu, Giiwo, Kubi, Maaka, Ɓeele, Daza, Pali, Ngamo, Bole and the isolate Tangale form the BoleTangale group of languages within the WestChadic branch of the Chadic family. The linguistic unity of the Chadic family dates to deep prehistory, estimates ranging around 15,000 years ago. In present-day Nigeria, it is estimated that there are over 2 million Karekare primary and secondary language speakers within Nigeria, it is the second most widely spoken language in North eastearn Nigeria.
Writing System
The digraphs dl, hn, tl, zh are also used.
Notable People of Karekare Origin
Adamu Ciroma: was a former Nigerian administrator, journalist and veteran politician. He was among the most regarded northern elders and seen as an icon to majority of Nigeria's modern politicians. He served various offices and positions among which was his role as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria .
Idi Barde Gubana: is the present deputy governor of Mai Mala Buni, the governor of Yobe State.
Amina Bashir: is an English professor from Federal University Dutse. She is the first female professor in Yobe state.
Adamu Garba Talba: is a Nigerian politician. He was a two time senator representing Yobe south.
Ibrahim Talba: is a former Secretary to the Federal Government during the term in office of Nigeria's former president Olusegun Obasanjo. He holds the national honorary award of Order Of Niger
Jamila Babayo: is a brilliant Nigerian writer and author. She became popular after winning the BBC's short story writing competition.
Aliyu Saleh Bagare: is a former Deputy governor of Yobe state.
Adamu Bazuwa: is popular Nigerian businessman. He holds the royal chieftain of Sarkin Fadan Fika in Fika Emirate.
Adamu Chilariye: is a veteran Nigerian politician. He is currently the Yobe state chairman party of the ruling All Progressive Congress.
Fatsuma Talba: is the most prominent woman politician in Yobe state. She was the Yobe's first female commissioner for women affairs. He holds various positions in the state from late 90's to date. She was the commissioner of health during the previous government and now serve as a special adviser for women affairs to governor Mai Mala Buni.
Musaddam Idriss Musa: is a prominent Nigerian writer and journalist. He is vastly known for his insightful commentaries about societal problems. He is presently the Editor-in-chief at Mujallar ADABI, one of the Nigeria's leading local literary magazine.
