Bokkos LGA
Bokkos is a Local Government Area in Plateau State, Nigeria, renowned for its significant agricultural output, particularly Irish potatoes, and as the host of the Plateau State University.
Plateau StateQuick Facts
- State
- Plateau
- Headquarters
- Bokkos
- Area
- 1,682 km²
- Postal Code
- 932 (Prefix)
- Major Crops
- Irish Potatoes, Maize, Beans
- Key Ethnic Groups
- Ron, Kulere, Mushere
Geography and Climate
Bokkos Local Government Area is situated in the central part of Plateau State, covering an expansive landmass of approximately 1,682 square kilometers. It shares borders with Barkin Ladi and Mangu to the north, Pankshin and Qua'an Pan to the east and south, and neighbors Nasarawa State to the west. The terrain is characterized by the typical undulating hills and high altitudes associated with the Jos Plateau region. This elevation results in a temperate climate that is notably cooler than the surrounding Nigerian lowlands. Such geographic features make the area conducive to specific types of temperate agriculture and provide a unique ecological landscape.
Economic Profile
The economy of Bokkos is heavily anchored in agriculture, which serves as the backbone of the local community. The area is widely known within Plateau State for its Irish potato production, which is a major commercial crop for the region. In addition to potatoes, the region produces substantial quantities of maize, beans, and various vegetables favored by the cool climate. Livestock rearing, particularly cattle and goats, also plays a crucial role in the local economy. Weekly markets in the area facilitate the trade of these commodities, serving Bokkos and nearby parts of Plateau and neighboring states.
Education and Culture
Bokkos is culturally diverse, serving as the ancestral home of the Ron, Kulere, and Mushere ethnic groups. The traditional administrative structure involves various leadership stools representing these indigenous communities, including the Saf Ron Kulere, who maintain social order and preserve the cultural heritage of the inhabitants. The local government gained increased prominence as an educational hub with the establishment of the Plateau State University (PLASU) located within its boundaries. This institution has contributed to the socio-economic growth of the town by attracting students and academic professionals from various regions. The interplay between traditional values and modern educational growth defines the contemporary social fabric of the area.