Nasarawa state is a state located in the North Central region of Nigeria. It was created on October 1, 1996, from Plateau state. The state is bordered by Kaduna state to the north, Benue state to the east, Taraba state to the south, and the Federal Capital Territory to the west. The state capital is Lafia, and it is home to over 2 million people. Nasarawa state is known for its diverse ethnic groups, rich cultural heritage, and abundant natural resources. It is also a hub for agriculture, with crops such as yam, maize, rice, and cassava being majorly cultivated. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about Nasarawa state.
Creation Of Nasarawa State
Nasarawa State was created on October 1, 1996, by the military regime of General Sani Abacha. The state was carved out of Plateau State, and it was one of the six states created during that period. Since its creation, the state has undergone significant developmental changes, particularly in its infrastructure and economy.
Nasarawa State Meaning
The name “Nasarawa” was derived from the Nasarawa River, which flows through the state. The river is a major source of water for the state, and it is also a popular tourist attraction. The name “Nasarawa” is a Hausa word that means “victorious”. The name was chosen to reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage and its resilience in the face of adversity.
Nasarawa State Capital
Lafia is the capital city of Nasarawa State. It is located in the central part of the state and is the largest city in the state. Lafia was chosen as the capital because of its strategic location and its potential for economic growth. The city is home to several government institutions, including the state secretariat, the state assembly, and the governor’s office.
Nasarawa State Slogan
“Home of Solid Minerals” is the official slogan of Nasarawa State. The slogan reflects the state’s abundant mineral resources, which include limestone, clay, kaolin, columbite, and tin. The state is also rich in agricultural resources, with crops such as yam, cassava, maize, and rice being grown in large quantities. The slogan is a testament to the state’s potential for economic growth and development.
Nasarawa State Border
Nasarawa State shares borders with four other states in Nigeria. To the north, it shares a border with Kaduna State, while to the west, it shares a border with Plateau State. To the east, it shares a border with Benue State, and to the south, it shares a border with the Federal Capital Territory. The state’s strategic location makes it an important hub for transportation and commerce.
Nasarawa State Geopolitical Region
Nasarawa State is located in the North-Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The region is known for its diverse culture and rich history. It is also an important agricultural hub, with crops such as yam, cassava, and maize being grown in large quantities. The region is home to several ethnic groups, including the Tiv, Idoma, and Igala. The North-Central geopolitical zone is an important contributor to Nigeria’s economy and is home to several industries, including agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.
Nasarawa State Local Government Areas (LGAs)
Nasarawa State has 13 LGAs. The LGAs are Akwanga, Awe, Doma, Karu, Keana, Keffi, Kokona, Lafia, Nasarawa, Nasarawa-Eggon, Obi, Toto, and Wamba. Each LGA is headed by a chairman who is elected by the people. The LGAs are responsible for the provision of basic amenities such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure at the grassroots level.
Nasarawa State Senatorial Districts
Nasarawa State has three senatorial districts. The districts are Nasarawa West, Nasarawa North, and Nasarawa South. Each district is represented by a senator in the Nigerian Senate. The senatorial districts are responsible for the representation of the people at the federal level and for the provision of federal projects and amenities in the state.
Nasarawa State Main Religion
Islam and Christianity are the main religions in Nasarawa State. The state has a diverse religious population, with Muslims and Christians living together in peace and harmony. The state government is committed to ensuring religious harmony and tolerance, and it has put in place measures to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Nasarawa State Landmass
Nasarawa State has a land area of 27,117 square kilometers, making it the 15th largest state in Nigeria. The state is located in the North-Central part of Nigeria and is bordered by four other states. The state’s landmass is characterized by hills, valleys, and plains, with the highest point being the Farin Ruwa Falls, which is located in Wamba LGA.
Nasarawa State Population
According to the 2006 national census, Nasarawa State had a population of 1,869,377, making it the 35th most populous state in Nigeria. The state’s population has grown significantly since then, with estimates putting the current population at over 2 million people. The state’s population is made up of several ethnic groups, including the Eggon, Tiv, Alago, Gwandara, and Bassa. The state government is committed to ensuring the welfare and well-being of its people, and it has put in place several programs and policies aimed at improving their standard of living.
Tribes/Ethnic Groups In Nasarawa State
The major ethnic groups in Nasarawa State are the Eggon, Alago, Gwandara, and Mada. The Eggon people are the largest ethnic group in the state, and they are known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals such as the Eggon Cultural Festival. The Alago people are known for their pottery and weaving skills, while the Gwandara people are known for their farming and hunting skills. The Mada people are known for their music and dance.
Nasarawa State Tourism
Nasarawa State is home to several tourist attractions, which attract visitors from within and outside Nigeria. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the state is the Farin Ruwa Falls, which is located in Wamba LGA. The falls is one of the highest in Nigeria, with a height of over 150 meters. Other tourist attractions in the state include Doma Dam, which is a popular spot for fishing and boating, and the Akwanga Game Reserve, which is home to several species of wildlife.
Nasarawa State Natural Resources
Nasarawa State is rich in solid minerals such as limestone, granite, and zinc. The state is also blessed with arable land for agriculture, with crops such as yam, cassava, maize, and rice being grown in large quantities. The state government is committed to harnessing the state’s natural resources and has put in place policies and programs aimed at promoting sustainable development.
Nasarawa State First Democratic/Elected Governor
Abdullahi Adamu was the first democratically elected governor of Nasarawa State. He was elected in 1999 under the platform of the All People’s Party (APP) and served for two terms, from May 1999 to May 2007. During his tenure, he initiated several development projects in the state, including the construction of roads, schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure.
Higher Institutions In Nasarawa State
Nasarawa State has six higher institutions, including Nasarawa State University, Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, and College of Agriculture, Lafia. The institutions offer courses in various fields of study, including agriculture, engineering, medicine, and social sciences. The state government is committed to promoting education and has put in place policies and programs aimed at improving access to quality education for its citizens.
Nasarawa State: A Brief Overview
- Date of Creation: Nasarawa State was created on October 1, 1996, by the military regime of General Sani Abacha.
- State Name Meaning: The state was named after the Nasarawa River, which flows through it. “Nasarawa” is a Hausa word that means “victorious”.
- State Capital: Lafia is the capital city of Nasarawa State.
- State Slogan: “Home of Solid Minerals” is the official slogan of Nasarawa State.
- State Border: Nasarawa State shares borders with Kaduna State to the north, Plateau State to the west, Benue State to the east, and the Federal Capital Territory to the south.
- Geopolitical Region: North-Central geopolitical zone.
- Number of Local Government Areas (LGAs): Nasarawa State has 13 LGAs.
- Number of Senatorial Districts: Nasarawa State has three senatorial districts.
- Main Religion: Islam and Christianity are the main religions in Nasarawa State.
- State Landmass: Nasarawa State has a land area of 27,117 square kilometers, making it the 15th largest state in Nigeria.
- State Population: According to the 2006 national census, Nasarawa State had a population of 1,869,377, making it the 35th most populous state in Nigeria.
- Tribes/Ethnic Groups: The major ethnic groups in Nasarawa State are the Eggon, Alago, Gwandara, and Mada. Other minority ethnic groups include the Fulani, Hausa, and Tiv.
- State Tourism: Nasarawa State is home to several tourist attractions, including Farin Ruwa Falls, and Doma Dam.
- State Natural Resources: Nasarawa State is rich in solid minerals such as limestone, granite, and zinc. It also has arable land for agriculture.
- First Democratic/Elected Governor: Abdullahi Adamu was the first democratically elected governor of Nasarawa State. He served from May 1999 to May 2007.
- Higher Institutions: Nasarawa State has six higher institutions, including Nasarawa State University, Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, and College of Agriculture, Lafia.
