Katsina state is one of the 36 states in Nigeria, located in the northern part of the country. It was created on September 23, 1987, from part of the old Kaduna State. Katsina state is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and diverse ethnic groups. In this article, we will delve into some interesting facts about Katsina state that will give you a better understanding of this unique part of Nigeria.
Creation Of Katsina State
Katsina State was created on September 23, 1987, by the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. Prior to its creation, Katsina was part of the old Kaduna State.
Meaning of Katsina State
Katsina State is named after the historic Katsina Kingdom, which was one of the seven Hausa city-states that emerged in the 14th century. The kingdom was known for its rich cultural heritage, including its unique architecture, arts, and crafts.
Katsina State Capital
The capital of Katsina State is Katsina City, which is located in the northern part of the state. Katsina City is a historical city that has been inhabited for over a thousand years and is known for its rich cultural heritage.
Katsina State Slogan
The official slogan of Katsina State is “Home of Hospitality”. This slogan reflects the state’s reputation for being welcoming and hospitable to visitors and residents alike. Katsina State is known for its friendly people, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes.
Katsina State Border
Katsina State shares borders with six other states in Nigeria, namely Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, Niger, and the Republic of Niger. The state’s strategic location makes it an important hub for trade and commerce in the region. The state also shares a border with the Sahel region of West Africa, which is known for its unique ecosystem and wildlife.
Katsina State Geopolitical Region
Katsina State is located in the North-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. This region is known for its diverse cultural heritage, rich history, and unique natural resources. The region is also home to some of Nigeria’s most important cities, including Kano, Kaduna, and Sokoto.
Katsina State Local Government Areas
Katsina State has 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs). These LGAs are further divided into wards and districts, each with its own elected officials. The LGAs are responsible for providing basic services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation to the people of the state.
Katsina State Senatorial Districts
Katsina State has three senatorial districts. These districts are Katsina North, Katsina Central, and Katsina South. Each district is represented by a senator in the Nigerian National Assembly.
Main Religion In Katsina State
Islam is the predominant religion in Katsina State. The state has a rich Islamic heritage, with many historic mosques and Islamic schools. The state is also home to a significant Christian minority, as well as followers of traditional African religions.
Katsina State Landmass
Katsina State has a land area of about 24,192 square kilometers, making it the 17th largest state in Nigeria. The state is located in the semi-arid region of Nigeria, which is characterized by hot temperatures, low rainfall, and sparse vegetation. Despite its arid climate, the state has a rich agricultural sector, with crops such as millet, sorghum, and cowpea being grown in large quantities.
Katsina State Population
According to the 2006 census, Katsina State had a population of 5,801,584, making it the 3rd most populous state in Nigeria. The state has a relatively young population, with a high percentage of its residents under the age of 30. The state’s population is growing rapidly, driven by high birth rates and rural-urban migration.
Tribes / Ethnic Group In Katsina State
The major ethnic groups in Katsina State are the Hausa and Fulani, while other minority groups include the Kanuri, Gbagyi, and Koro. The Hausa and Fulani are the largest ethnic groups in the state and are mainly engaged in farming, trade, and commerce. The Kanuri are mostly found in the eastern part of the state and are known for their fishing and trading skills. The Gbagyi and Koro are relatively small ethnic groups that are mainly engaged in farming and other rural activities.
Katsina State Tourism
Katsina State is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes the Gobarau Minaret, the Kusugu Well, and the Katsina City Walls. The Gobarau Minaret is a historic tower that was built in the 14th century and is one of the tallest structures in the state. The Kusugu Well is a sacred well that is believed to have healing powers and is a popular destination for pilgrims. The Katsina City Walls are a series of ancient walls that were built around the city to protect it from invaders.
Katsina State Natural Resource
Katsina State is rich in mineral resources such as gold, limestone, kaolin, and gypsum. The state is also known for its agricultural resources, with crops such as millet, sorghum, and cowpea being grown in large quantities. The state’s mineral resources have the potential to drive economic growth and development in the state if properly harnessed.
Katsina State First Democratic/ Elected Governor
The first democratically elected governor of Katsina State was Alhaji Saidu Barda. He was elected in 1991 under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and served until 1993 when the military took over power.
Katsina State Higher Institutions
Katsina State has two state-owned universities, namely Umaru Musa Yar’adua University and Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, as well as several other tertiary institutions such as the Federal College of Education (Technical), Katsina. Umaru Musa Yar’adua University is a comprehensive university that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study. Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic is a technical institution that offers diploma and certificate programs in engineering, science, and technology. The Federal College of Education (Technical), Katsina is a teacher training institution that offers certificate and diploma programs in education.
Interesting Facts About Katsina State, Nigeria
- Date of Creation: Katsina State was created on September 23, 1987, by the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida.
- State Name Meaning: Katsina State is named after the historic Katsina Kingdom, which was one of the seven Hausa city-states that emerged in the 14th century.
- State Capital: The capital of Katsina State is Katsina City.
- State Slogan: The official slogan of Katsina State is “Home of Hospitality”.
- State Border: Katsina State shares borders with six other states in Nigeria, namely Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, Niger, and the Republic of Niger.
- Geopolitical Region: Katsina State is located in the North-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
- Number of Local Govt: Katsina State has 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
- Number of Senatorial Districts: Katsina State has three senatorial districts.
- Main Religion: Islam is the predominant religion in Katsina State.
- State Landmass: Katsina State has a land area of about 24,192 square kilometers, making it the 17th largest state in Nigeria.
- State Population: According to the 2006 census, Katsina State had a population of 5,801,584, making it the 3rd most populous state in Nigeria.
- Tribes / Ethnic Group In The State: The major ethnic groups in Katsina State are the Hausa and Fulani, while other minority groups include the Kanuri, Gbagyi, and Koro.
- State Tourism: Katsina State is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes the Gobarau Minaret, the Kusugu Well, and the Katsina City Walls.
- State Natural Resource: Katsina State is rich in mineral resources such as gold, limestone, kaolin, and gypsum.
- First Democratic/ Elected Governor: The first democratically elected governor of Katsina State was Alhaji Saidu Barda.
- Higher Institutions In The State: Katsina State has two state-owned universities, namely Umaru Musa Yar’adua University and Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, as well as several other tertiary institutions such as the Federal College of Education (Technical), Katsina.
