While Kanuri is their primary language, many Kanuri people also speak other languages, depending on their location and interactions with other groups. Some common secondary languages include:
* Arabic: Particularly prevalent in areas with significant Arab influence.
* Hausa: Widely spoken in northern Nigeria and parts of Niger.
* French: Common in Chad and Niger, due to their colonial history.
* English: Used in Nigeria, due to its status as the official language.
* Other local languages: Depending on the specific region, Kanuri people may also speak other local languages like Tubu, Arabic, or other Chadic languages.
It's important to note that the prevalence of these secondary languages varies greatly depending on the location and individual circumstances of the Kanuri people.