The Sorko Expansion in the Waters of the Niger to the End of the 20th Century

This paper is exclusively on a series of Sorko (also called Sarkawa) migrant communities, their settlements1 and foremost their major contributions in private sector to the general development of the riverine communities2 in Yauri and Borgu Emirates of Kebbi and Niger States of Nigeria, up to the end of 20th century. Through their migratory expeditions long before the 20th century, the Sorko who are primarily known as Kabawa fishermen from Kabi (now Kebbi) region have established permanent stronghold in the east and west banks of River Niger within the geographical area of the 2 emirates. They provided a lot of socio-political and foremost, economic development in the area. This research has emphasis on the riverine communities of Ngaski and Borgu Districts. Notwithstanding the acute shortage of documented sources the paper has been able through the use of oral data to bring into light the major characteristic features of the Sorko activities.

Keywords: The Sorko people, Niger River, Migrations, Intergroup Relations, Social Integration.