Rivers State, also known as Nigeria’s Treasure Base, is a state located in the southern part of Nigeria. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic groups, and abundant natural resources. Rivers State is home to several tourist attractions, including beautiful beaches, parks, and cultural centers. The state is also a major contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with several multinational oil companies operating in the state. In this article, we will explore some fascinating facts about Rivers State that you may not have known. So sit back, relax, and discover the hidden gems of Nigeria’s Treasure Base.
Fascinating Facts About Rivers State
Creation Of Rivers State
Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, alongside several other states, during the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon. The state was carved out of the former Eastern Region of Nigeria, which was later split into several states to promote regional development and decentralization of power.
Rivers State Meaning
Rivers State is named after the many rivers that flow through its territory, including the Niger and the Benue rivers. The state is home to several other rivers, such as the Bonny, Sombreiro, and Orashi rivers, which have played a significant role in the state’s history and economy.
Rivers State Capital
The capital of Rivers State is Port Harcourt, which is also the largest city in the state. Port Harcourt is a major industrial and commercial center, with a bustling seaport, oil refineries, and several multinational corporations operating in the city. The city is also home to several cultural and educational institutions, as well as tourist attractions.
Rivers State Slogan
The slogan of Rivers State is “Treasure Base of the Nation”. The slogan reflects the state’s rich natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, limestone, and clay, which have contributed significantly to the development of the Nigerian economy. The state is also rich in human capital, with a highly educated and skilled workforce.
Rivers State Border
Rivers State is bordered by Imo State to the north, Abia State to the east, Akwa Ibom State to the south, and Bayelsa State to the west. The state’s strategic location has made it a hub for trade and commerce, with several major highways and transport routes passing through the state. The state is also home to several seaports, including the Port Harcourt Port and the Onne Port, which serve as gateways for international trade and commerce.
Rivers State Geopolitical Region
Rivers State is part of the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. This region is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic groups, and abundant natural resources. The South-South region is also a major contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with several oil-producing states, including Rivers State, located in the region.
Rivers State Local Government Areas
Rivers State has 23 local government areas. These local government areas are further divided into several wards and villages, each with its unique culture, customs, and traditions. The local government areas are responsible for the provision of basic amenities and services to the people, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
Rivers State Senatorial Districts
Rivers State has three senatorial districts, which are Rivers East, Rivers West, and Rivers South-East. Each senatorial district is represented by a senator in the National Assembly, who is responsible for representing the interests of the people at the federal level. The senatorial districts also play a significant role in the state’s political and economic development.
Religion In Rivers State
Christianity is the predominant religion in Rivers State, with a significant Muslim minority. The state is home to several churches, including the famous Christ Church Cathedral in Port Harcourt, which is one of the oldest churches in Nigeria. There are also several mosques in the state, especially in the northern part of the state, where the Muslim population is more concentrated.
Rivers State Landmass
Rivers State is located in the southern part of Nigeria and covers a land area of about 11,077 square kilometers. It is the 24th largest state in Nigeria by landmass. The state is predominantly low-lying, with several hills and plateaus in the northern part of the state. The state is also home to several rivers, creeks, and swamps, which provide a habitat for several species of aquatic life.
Rivers State Population
According to the 2006 census, Rivers State had a population of over 5 million people, making it the sixth most populous state in Nigeria. The state’s population has continued to grow rapidly over the years, driven by natural increase and migration from other parts of the country. The state’s population is also diverse, with several ethnic groups and languages spoken in the state.
Tribes/Ethnic Groups In Rivers State
Rivers State is a culturally diverse state with several ethnic groups. The Ikwerre people are the largest ethnic group in the state, followed by the Ogoni, Kalabari, Okrika, and Ijaw. Each ethnic group has its unique language, culture, and traditions, which are celebrated during festivals and ceremonies. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its music, dance, and art.
Rivers State Tourism
Rivers State has several tourist attractions that draw visitors from within and outside Nigeria. The Port Harcourt Tourist Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, with its beautiful sandy beaches and calm waters. The Isaac Boro Garden Park is another popular attraction, with its lush greenery and serene environment. The Rivers State Cultural Centre is a hub for cultural activities, including music, dance, and drama. The National Museum of Nigeria in Port Harcourt is also a must-visit for tourists interested in the history and culture of Nigeria.
Rivers State Natural Resources
Rivers State is endowed with abundant natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, limestone, and clay. The state is one of the largest producers of crude oil and natural gas in Nigeria, with several multinational oil companies operating in the state. The state’s natural resources have contributed significantly to the development of the Nigerian economy, but there have also been concerns about the environmental impact of oil exploration and production on the state’s ecosystem.
Rivers State First Democratic/ Elected Governor
The first elected governor of Rivers State was Chief Melford Okilo, who served from 1979 to 1983 under the Second Republic. Okilo was a prominent politician and a founding member of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). He was known for his contributions to the development of the state, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.
Rivers State Higher Institutions
Rivers State has several higher institutions of learning, including the Rivers State University, the University of Port Harcourt, the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, and the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic. These institutions offer courses in various fields, including engineering, medicine, law, and social sciences. The state government has also invested in the development of technical and vocational education to equip students with practical skills that can help them become self-employed or contribute to the state’s economy.
Interesting Facts About Rivers State
- Date of Creation: Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, alongside several other states, during the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon.
- State Name Meaning: Rivers State is named after the many rivers that flow through its territory, including the Niger and the Benue rivers.
- State Capital: The capital of Rivers State is Port Harcourt, which is also the largest city in the state.
- State Slogan: The slogan of Rivers State is “Treasure Base of the Nation”.
- State Border: Rivers State is bordered by Imo State to the north, Abia State to the east, Akwa Ibom State to the south, and Bayelsa State to the west.
- Geopolitical Region: Rivers State is part of the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
- Number of Local Government Areas: Rivers State has 23 local government areas.
- Number of Senatorial Districts: Rivers State has three senatorial districts, which are Rivers East, Rivers West, and Rivers South-East.
- Main Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion in Rivers State, with a significant Muslim minority.
- State Landmass: Rivers State is located in the southern part of Nigeria and covers a land area of about 11,077 square kilometers. It is the 24th largest state in Nigeria by landmass.
- State Population: According to the 2006 census, Rivers State had a population of over 5 million people, making it the sixth most populous state in Nigeria.
- Tribes/Ethnic Groups: Rivers State is home to several ethnic groups, including the Ikwerre, Ogoni, Kalabari, Okrika, and Ijaw.
- State Tourism: Rivers State has several tourist attractions, including the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, the Isaac Boro Garden Park, the Rivers State Cultural Centre, and the National Museum of Nigeria in Port Harcourt.
- State Natural Resources: Rivers State is endowed with abundant natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, limestone, and clay.
- First Democratic/Elected Governor: The first elected governor of Rivers State was Chief Melford Okilo, who served from 1979 to 1983 under the Second Republic.
- Higher Institutions: Rivers State has several higher institutions of learning, including the Rivers State University, the University of Port Harcourt, the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, and the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic. There are also several colleges of education and other tertiary institutions in the state.
