Kogi State is a state in Nigeria, located in the central region of the country. It was created in 1991 from parts of Kwara State and Benue State. The state is known for its diverse ethnic groups, rich cultural heritage, and natural resources. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about Kogi State, including its history, geography, economy, and tourist attractions. Whether you are a resident of Kogi State or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating region of Nigeria, this article is sure to provide you with valuable insights and information. So, let’s dive in and discover the facts about Kogi State.
Facts about Kogi State
Creation Of Kogi State
Kogi State was created on August 27, 1991, by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida. The state was carved out of parts of Kwara and Benue States. The creation of Kogi State was part of the Nigerian government’s effort to decentralize power and bring government closer to the people.
Kogi State Meaning
Kogi State was named after the confluence of River Niger and River Benue, which is located in Lokoja, the state capital. The confluence is a popular tourist attraction and is considered a symbol of unity and diversity in Nigeria. The name “Kogi” is derived from the Hausa word “kogi” which means river.
Kogi State Capital
Lokoja is the capital city of Kogi State. It is located at the confluence of River Niger and River Benue and is considered the first administrative capital of Nigeria. Lokoja is a historic city and was the site of the first British colonial settlement in Nigeria. The city has several historic landmarks, including Lord Lugard’s Residence, the first primary school in Nigeria, and the Iron of Liberty.
Kogi State Slogan
Kogi State’s slogan is “The Confluence State”. The slogan reflects the state’s unique location at the confluence of two major rivers in Nigeria. The confluence is a major tourist attraction and is considered a symbol of unity and diversity in Nigeria.
Kogi State Border
Kogi State shares borders with ten other states in Nigeria: Nassarawa, Benue, Enugu, Anambra, Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The state’s strategic location makes it a major transit point for goods and people traveling between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria. The state’s border with the FCT also makes it an important gateway to the federal capital.
Geopolitical Region Of Kogi State
Kogi State is located in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The North Central zone is made up of six states and is located in the middle belt region of Nigeria. The region is known for its diverse cultural heritage, fertile land, and mineral resources.
Kogi State Local Government Areas
Kogi State has 21 local government areas. The local government areas in Kogi State are: Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ankpa, Bassa, Dekina, Ibaji, Idah, Igalamela-Odolu, Ijumu, Kabba/Bunu, Kogi, Lokoja, Mopa-Muro, Ofu, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi, Okene, Olamaboro, Omala, Yagba East, and Yagba West. Each local government area is headed by an elected chairman and has a council made up of elected members.
Kogi State Senatorial Districts
Kogi State has three senatorial districts: Kogi East, Kogi West, and Kogi Central. Each senatorial district is represented by a senator in the National Assembly. The three senatorial districts are divided based on population and geographical location.
Kogi State Main Religion
Christianity and Islam are the main religions in Kogi State. Christianity is practiced by a majority of the people in the southern part of the state, while Islam is predominant in the northern part. There are also other minority religions practiced in the state, including traditional African religions.
Kogi State Landmass
Kogi State has a land area of 29,833 square kilometers, making it the 13th largest state in Nigeria by landmass. The state is located in the central region of Nigeria and is bordered by several other states. Kogi State has a diverse geography, including hills, mountains, valleys, and plains.
Kogi State Population
According to the 2006 Nigerian census, Kogi State had a population of 3,314,043, making it the 27th most populous state in Nigeria. The state has a diverse population made up of several ethnic groups, including the Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba). The population of Kogi State has grown significantly since the 2006 census and is estimated to be over 4 million people.
Tribes/ Ethnic Groups In Kogi State
Kogi State is a multi-ethnic state with several ethnic groups. The major tribes/ethnic groups in Kogi State are Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba). The Igala people are the largest ethnic group in the state and are predominantly found in the eastern part of the state. The Ebira people are mainly located in the central part of the state, while the Okun people (Yoruba) are found in the western part of the state.
Tourism In Kogi State
Kogi State has several tourist attractions that attract visitors from within and outside Nigeria. The confluence of River Niger and River Benue is a major tourist attraction and is considered a symbol of unity and diversity in Nigeria. Mount Patti, located in Lokoja, offers a panoramic view of the city and the confluence. Lord Lugard’s Residence is a colonial-era building that served as the residence of the first Governor-General of Nigeria. Other tourist attractions in Kogi State include the Koton Karfe Slave Market, the Idah Iron Smelting Works, and the Osara Dam.
Kogi State Natural Resources
Kogi State is rich in natural resources such as coal, iron ore, limestone, and marble. The state has one of the largest coal deposits in Nigeria and is also rich in iron ore. The state’s natural resources are a major source of revenue for the state government and have the potential to drive economic growth and development.
Kogi State First Democratic/ Elected Governor
Abubakar Audu was the first democratically elected governor of Kogi State, serving from 1999 to 2003. He was a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was re-elected for a second term in 2003. However, he died while campaigning for a third term in 2015.
Higher Institutions In Kogi State
Kogi State has several higher institutions that offer a wide range of courses and programs. Kogi State University, located in Anyigba, is a state-owned university that was established in 1999. Federal University Lokoja is a federal university that was established in 2011 and is located in Lokoja. Kogi State Polytechnic, located in Lokoja, offers courses in technology, engineering, and management. College of Education, Ankpa, is a state-owned college that offers courses in education and related fields.
Facts about Kogi State
- Date of Creation: Kogi State was created on August 27, 1991, by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida.
- State Name Meaning: The state was named after the popular confluence of River Niger and River Benue, which is located in Lokoja, the state capital.
- State Capital: Lokoja is the capital city of Kogi State.
- State Slogan: “The Confluence State”
- State Border: Kogi State shares borders with ten other states in Nigeria: Nassarawa, Benue, Enugu, Anambra, Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
- Geopolitical Region: Kogi State is located in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
- Number of Local Government Areas: Kogi State has 21 local government areas.
- Number of Senatorial Districts: Kogi State has three senatorial districts: Kogi East, Kogi West, and Kogi Central.
- Main Religion: Christianity and Islam are the main religions in Kogi State.
- State Landmass: Kogi State has a land area of 29,833 square kilometers, making it the 13th largest state in Nigeria by landmass.
- State Population: According to the 2006 Nigerian census, Kogi State had a population of 3,314,043, making it the 27th most populous state in Nigeria.
- Tribes/Ethnic Groups: The major tribes/ethnic groups in Kogi State are Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba).
- State Tourism: Kogi State is home to several tourist attractions, including the confluence of River Niger and Mount Patti, Lord Lugard’s Residence, and the colonial relics of Lokoja.
- State Natural Resources: Kogi State is rich in natural resources such as coal, iron ore, limestone, and marble.
- First Democratic/Elected Governor: Abubakar Audu was the first democratically elected governor of Kogi State, serving from 1999 to 2003.
- Higher Institutions in the State: Kogi State has several higher institutions, including Kogi State University, Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State Polytechnic, and College of Education, Ankpa.
