Taraba State: Interesting Facts About Nature’s Gift To The Nation
Taraba State is a beautiful and unique state located in the northeastern part of Nigeria. Known as “Nature’s Gift to the Nation,” Taraba State boasts of a diverse range of flora and fauna, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about Taraba State, including its natural resources, tourist attractions, and fascinating culture. Join us as we take a journey through this enchanting state and discover what makes it so special.
Interesting Facts About Taraba State
Creation Of Taraba State
Taraba State was created on August 27, 1991, by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida. It was carved out of the former Gongola State, which was later split into Adamawa and Taraba States.
Taraba States Meaning
The state was named after the Taraba River, which is the major river that flows through the southern part of the state. The Taraba River is a major tributary of the Benue River and is known for its scenic beauty and the diverse wildlife that inhabits its banks.
Taraba States Capital
The capital of Taraba State is Jalingo, which is a rapidly growing city and the administrative center of the state. Jalingo is located in the central part of the state and is home to several government institutions, higher institutions of learning, and commercial activities.
Taraba States Slogan
The official slogan of Taraba State is “Nature’s Gift to the Nation.” This slogan reflects the state’s rich natural resources, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty, which make it a popular destination for tourists and investors.
Taraba States Border
Taraba State is bordered by six other states in Nigeria and the Republic of Cameroon. To the north, Taraba State shares a border with Bauchi and Gombe States, while to the east, it shares a border with Adamawa State and the Republic of Cameroon. To the south, it shares a border with Plateau and Benue States, and to the west, it shares a border with Nasarawa State. The state’s strategic location makes it a hub for trade and commerce in the North-East region of Nigeria.
Taraba States Geopolitical Region
Taraba State is located in the North-East geopolitical region of Nigeria. This region is known for its diverse ethnic groups, rich cultural heritage, and strategic location as a gateway to the rest of the country.
Taraba States Local Government Areas
Taraba State has 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs). These LGAs are further divided into wards and villages, which are administered by elected officials at the grassroots level. The LGAs in Taraba State are Ardo-Kola, Bali, Donga, Gashaka, Gassol, Ibi, Jalingo, Karim Lamido, Kurmi, Lau, Sardauna, Takum, Ussa, Wukari, Yorro, and Zing.
Taraba States Senatorial Districts
Taraba State has three senatorial districts, which are Taraba North, Taraba Central, and Taraba South. Each senatorial district is represented by a senator in the National Assembly, which is the legislative arm of the federal government of Nigeria.
Main Religion In Taraba States
Christianity and Islam are the main religions in Taraba State. These two religions coexist peacefully and are practiced by different ethnic groups in the state. Other religions such as traditional African religion and Hinduism are also practiced by a minority of the population.
Taraba States Landmass
Taraba State is the third largest state in Nigeria with a landmass of 54,473 square kilometers. It is located in the North-East region of Nigeria and is known for its diverse topography, which includes the Mambilla Plateau, the Benue River valley, and the rugged hills and mountains in the southern part of the state.
Taraba States Population
According to the 2006 census, Taraba State had a population of 2,300,736, making it the 31st most populous state in Nigeria. The population of the state has since increased due to natural growth and migration from other parts of the country. The major ethnic groups in the state include Jukun, Kuteb, Tiv, Mumuye, Chamba, and Fulani.
Tribes/Ethnic Groups In Taraba States
Taraba State is home to several ethnic groups, with the major ones being Jukun, Kuteb, Tiv, Mumuye, Chamba, and Fulani. These ethnic groups have unique cultures, languages, and traditions that contribute to the diversity of the state.
Taraba States Tourism
Taraba State is known for its scenic beauty and tourist attractions. The Mambilla Plateau is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, with its cool climate, breathtaking scenery, and diverse wildlife. The Gashaka-Gumti National Park is another major tourist attraction, with its rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Other tourist attractions in the state include the Kpambo and Kpantisawa Waterfalls, the Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve, and the Donga River Basin.
Taraba States Natural Resource
Taraba State is rich in natural resources such as coal, gypsum, kaolin, and marble. These resources have the potential to contribute significantly to the economic development of the state and the country at large. The state government has been exploring ways to harness these resources for the benefit of the people.
Taraba States First Democratic/Elected Governor
Jolly Nyame was the first democratically elected governor of Taraba State. He was elected in 1999 and served two terms in office. During his tenure, he initiated several development projects in the state, including the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals.
Taraba States Higher Institutions
Taraba State has several higher institutions of learning, including Federal University Wukari, Taraba State University, and the Federal Polytechnic Bali. These institutions offer courses in various fields of study and attract students from different parts of the country. The state government has been investing in the education sector to improve access to quality education for its citizens.
Taraba State: A Brief Overview
- Date of Creation: Taraba State was created on August 27, 1991.
- State Name Meaning: The state was named after the Taraba River which traverses the southern part of the state.
- State Capital: The capital of Taraba State is Jalingo.
- State Slogan: “Nature’s Gift to the Nation”
- State Border: Taraba State is bordered by Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Plateau, Benue, and Cameroon.
- Geopolitical Region: Taraba State is located in the North-East geopolitical region of Nigeria.
- Number of Local Government: Taraba State has 16 Local Government Areas.
- Number of Senatorial Districts: Taraba State has three senatorial districts.
- Main Religion: Christianity and Islam are the main religions in Taraba State.
- State Landmass: Taraba State is the third largest state in Nigeria with a landmass of 54,473 square kilometers.
- State Population: According to the 2006 census, Taraba State had a population of 2,300,736, making it the 31st most populous state in Nigeria.
- Tribes/Ethnic Groups: The major ethnic groups in Taraba State include Jukun, Kuteb, Tiv, Mumuye, Chamba, and Fulani.
- State Tourism: Taraba State is home to several tourist attractions such as the Mambilla Plateau, Gashaka-Gumti National Park, and the Kpambo and Kpantisawa Waterfalls.
- State Natural Resource: Taraba State is rich in natural resources such as coal, gypsum, kaolin, and marble.
- First Democratic/Elected Governor: Jolly Nyame was the first democratically elected governor of Taraba State.
- Higher Institutions: Taraba State has several higher institutions of learning, including Federal University Wukari, Taraba State University, and the Federal Polytechnic Bali.
