Plateau State
“Home of Peace and Tourism”
Key Information
Capital City
Jos
Governor
Caleb Mutfwang
Deputy Governor
Josephine Piyo
Date Created
3 February 1976
Geopolitical Zone
North Central
Area
30,913 km²
Estimated Population
4,200,000 (2016 projection)
Senatorial Districts
3
About Plateau State
Plateau State is a high-altitude region located in Nigeria's North Central zone, renowned for its unique temperate climate and undulating landscape. It takes its name from the Jos Plateau, a prominent geographical feature that covers approximately 8,600 square kilometres of the state's territory.
Historical Evolution and Creation
Plateau State was created on 3 February 1976 by the Murtala Muhammed military administration after being carved out of the former Benue-Plateau State. In 1996, the state's boundaries were further adjusted when Nasarawa State was created from its western territory. The region has a deep archaeological history, being one of the areas associated with finds of the ancient Nok culture, known for its advanced terracotta artistry dating back to 1500 BC. Historically, the area gained international prominence in the early 20th century following the discovery of substantial tin and columbite deposits by the British.
Geography and Temperate Climate
The state is distinguished by its elevation, with much of its landmass sitting at an average of 1,200 metres above sea level. This altitude grants Plateau State a climate significantly cooler than the rest of Nigeria, with temperatures often dropping below 15 degrees Celsius during the harmattan season. The landscape is marked by granite hills, volcanic cones, and numerous waterfalls, such as the Kurra Falls and Assop Falls. These geographical features make it a primary watershed for several rivers in Northern Nigeria, including the Kaduna, Gongola, and Hadejia rivers.
Economy and Agricultural Specialisation
Plateau State possesses a diversified economy anchored in agriculture, mining, and tourism. Due to its unique climate, the state is one of Nigeria's primary producers of Irish potatoes and other cool-climate crops, including strawberries and various temperate-region vegetables. Historically, the state was the hub of Nigeria's mining industry, specifically for tin and columbite, though activity has shifted toward artisanal scales in recent decades. The state's administrative centre, Jos, remains a vital commercial and industrial hub for the Middle Belt region.
Cultural Diversity and Education
The state is home to over 40 ethno-linguistic groups, including the Berom, Ngas, Tarok, Afizere, and Goemai, contributing to a rich multicultural heritage. It is a significant educational centre in West Africa, hosting the University of Jos, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) at Kuru, and the Nigerian Film Corporation. Cultural festivals like the Afizere Asharuwa and the Berom Nzem Berom showcase the traditional music, dance, and equestrian skills of the local populations. Despite periods of communal tension, the state maintains a strong identity as a primary destination for domestic tourism.
Local Government Areas (17)
Other Nigerian States
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