Benue State
“Food Basket of the Nation”
Key Information
Capital City
Makurdi
Governor
Hyacinth Alia
Deputy Governor
Sam Ode
Date Created
February 3, 1976
Geopolitical Zone
North Central
Area
34,059 km²
Estimated Population
4,253,641 (2006 Census)
Senatorial Districts
3
About Benue State
Benue State is located in the North Central region of Nigeria and is named after the Benue River. It is widely regarded as one of the country's major agricultural states due to its fertile soil and high volume of crop production.
Historical Evolution and Administration
Benue State was formally created on February 3, 1976, during the military regime of General Murtala Mohammed. It was formed from the southern part of the former Benue-Plateau State, with Makurdi serving as its administrative headquarters. In 1991, the state's boundaries were adjusted when parts of its territory, specifically the Igala-speaking areas, were merged with parts of Kwara State to form Kogi State. Today, the state is governed from the Government House in Makurdi and is divided into three senatorial districts: Benue North-East, Benue North-West, and Benue South.
Geography and Natural Features
The state is characterized by its location in the Middle Belt, sharing boundaries with Nasarawa to the north, Taraba to the east, Kogi to the west, and Cross River, Enugu, and Ebonyi states to the south. The Benue River, Nigeria's second-largest waterway, flows through the heart of the state, influencing its climate and providing essential water for irrigation and fishing. The terrain consists largely of undulating plains with occasional hills, such as the Swem hills.
Economic Landscape and Agriculture
True to its slogan as the 'Food Basket of the Nation,' Benue's economy is predominantly driven by agriculture, providing a livelihood for the majority of the population. The state is a major producer of staple crops such as yams, cassava, soya beans, and citrus fruits. Beyond farming, Benue possesses significant mineral wealth, including limestone deposits around Gboko/Tse-Kucha that support cement production in the state, including Dangote Cement’s operations in the Gboko area. Other notable minerals found in the state include baryte, salt, and coal, offering potential for further industrial expansion.
Culture and Education
Benue State is ethnically diverse, primarily inhabited by the Tiv, Idoma, and Igede people, each possessing rich linguistic and cultural traditions. The state is a centre for learning in Northern Nigeria, hosting the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University (formerly the Federal University of Agriculture) and Benue State University in Makurdi. Cultural expression is prominent through traditional music and dances like the Swange and the Ichicha. Notable tourist attractions include the Ikwe Holiday Resort in Otukpo, Ikyogen Cattle Ranch, Enemabia Warm Spring, Owuche Waterfalls, and the Swem Hills, although many sites remain in developmental stages.
Local Government Areas (23)
Other Nigerian States
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