Nasarawa State
“Home of Solid Minerals”
Key Information
Capital City
Lafia
Governor
Abdullahi Sule
Deputy Governor
Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe
Date Created
1 October 1996
Geopolitical Zone
North Central
Area
27,117 km²
Estimated Population
approx. 2,523,400 (2016 estimate)
Senatorial Districts
3
About Nasarawa State
Nasarawa State is a landlocked state in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered by the Federal Capital Territory to the west. Established in 1996 from the western part of Plateau State, it serves as a critical strategic link between the capital city and the eastern parts of the country.
Historical Context and Creation
Nasarawa State was created on October 1, 1996, by the military administration of General Sani Abacha. It was carved out of the old Plateau State to address long-standing demands for political autonomy and improved administrative efficiency in the region. Since its inception, the state has undergone significant structural development, moving its administrative focus to Lafia, which serves as both the state capital and the seat of the traditional Lafia Emirate. The state’s history is deeply intertwined with various ethnic migrations and the historical Keffi and Lafia emirates.
Geography and Proximity to the FCT
The state occupies a central position in Nigeria, sharing boundaries with Kaduna to the north, Plateau to the east, Taraba and Benue to the south, and Kogi and the Federal Capital Territory to the west. A defining geographical feature is the state's proximity to Abuja, which has resulted in the rapid urbanization of border towns like Karu and Mararaba. The landscape consists of diverse terrains, including the high-altitude Farin Ruwa Falls and the undulating plains of the Benue River valley. This strategic location makes it a vital corridor for transportation and logistical activities within the Middle Belt.
Economy and Solid Mineral Deposits
Widely known as the 'Home of Solid Minerals,' Nasarawa possesses vast untapped deposits of baryte, coal, limestone, salt, and various gemstones. Agriculture remains the primary occupation for the majority of the population, with the state being a major national producer of yams, cassava, rice, and sesame seeds. The state government has recently prioritized the development of agro-allied industries and the formalization of mining activities to boost internal revenue. Infrastructure projects, including the expansion of road networks and the development of the Lafia Cargo Airport, are aimed at positioning the state as an industrial hub.
Social and Cultural Heritage
Nasarawa is a multi-ethnic state comprising several groups including the Eggon, Gwandara, Kanuri, Alago, Fulani, and Tiv, among others. This diversity is reflected in the state's vibrant festivals, traditional music, and craft industries. Educational advancement is supported by several institutions such as the Nasarawa State University in Keffi, the Federal University of Lafia, and various technical colleges. The Farin Ruwa Falls in the Wamba local government area is one of the state's most prominent tourism assets, noted for its high vertical drop and scenic beauty.
Local Government Areas (13)
Other Nigerian States
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