Kwara State
“State of Harmony”
Key Information
Capital City
Ilorin
Governor
AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
Deputy Governor
Kayode Alabi
Date Created
May 27, 1967
Geopolitical Zone
North Central
Area
36,825 km²
Estimated Population
2,365,353 (2006 census)
Senatorial Districts
3
About Kwara State
Kwara State is situated in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria and is widely known as the 'State of Harmony' due to its diverse ethnic composition and peaceful coexistence. It serves as a vital transition point between the northern and southern regions of the country, blending various cultural and linguistic traditions.
Historical Foundation and Evolution
Kwara State was created on May 27, 1967, by the military administration of General Yakubu Gowon as one of the original 12 states of the federation. Initially named West Central State, it was later renamed Kwara, a name derived from the Nupe word for the River Niger, which forms much of the state's eastern boundary and part of its northern boundary. Over the decades, the state has undergone several territorial changes, most notably in 1976 and 1991, which resulted in the carving out of parts of its territory to form portions of modern-day Kogi and Niger states. Its capital, Ilorin, has historically been a significant center of Islamic scholarship and trade since the 19th century.
Geography and Natural Landscapes
The state's geography is characterized by a mix of Guinea Savannah and rainforest vegetation, featuring fertile plains and undulating hills. It shares an international boundary with the Republic of Benin to the west and is bordered by Niger State to the north, Kogi to the east, and Ekiti, Osun, and Oyo states to the south. Notable physical features include the Niger River, the Owu Falls - a major waterfall in the state - and the Jebba Lake and Dam area. These natural resources provide significant opportunities for eco-tourism and agricultural development.
Economy and Industrial Capacity
Agriculture is the primary occupation of the residents, with the state producing significant quantities of yams, cassava, maize, and rice. The state gained international attention for the Shonga Farms project, a commercial farming initiative that modernized large-scale agricultural production in the region. Kwara's industrial landscape includes the Bacita sugar enterprise and various food processing plants, as well as historic industrial sites like the Jebba Paper Mill. Strategic infrastructure like the Ilorin International Airport and the Lagos-Kano railway line enhance the state's role as a commercial hub for the North Central region.
Education and Cultural Heritage
Kwara is recognized as a center for academic excellence, housing the University of Ilorin, which is consistently one of the most sought-after universities in Nigeria. The state is also home to Kwara State University (KWASU) and several other polytechnics and colleges of education. Culturally, the state is famous for its vibrant festivals such as the Ilorin Durbar, the Pategi Regatta, and various traditional weaving and pottery industries. The Esie Museum, established in 1945, houses a notable and widely cited collection of soapstone figures, marking it as a significant historical site.
Local Government Areas (16)
Other Nigerian States
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