Welcome to Benue State of Nigeria

Historical Notes

What is today Benue State was created on February 3,1976. The state derives its name from the River Benue,the second largest in the country and the most prominent geographical feature in the state.

LOCATION
Nigeria Map showing Benue State

Benue State lies in the middle of the country and shares boundaries with five other states namely: Nassarawa to the north, Taraba to the east, Cross River to the south, Enugu to the south-west and Kogi to the west. The state also shares a common boundary with Cameroun on the southeast.

SIZE
33,955 square Kilometers

CAPITAL
Makurdi (Lat.7 44'N; Long8 10'E; 210m as1)

CLIMATE
Tropical Hinterland with two distinct seasons-The rainy season (750 - 1500mm per annum) lasts from April to October while the dary season lasts from November to March with a dry dust laden North-Eastly trade (harmattan) wind. Temperatures are between 23-35c.

MAJOR TOWNS
Gboko, Otukpo and Katsina-Ala

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS
23 namely: Gboko, Makurdi, Katsina-Ala, Otukpo, Gwer, Buruku, Kwande, Konshisha, Obi, Logo, Ukum, Guma Gwer-West, Ohimini, Okpokwu, Ogbadibo, Ado, Oju, Tarka, Ushongo, Agatu, Apa, Vandeikya.

INFRASTRUCTURE
Electricity, pipe borne water, telephone, postal services, and a good road network.

TRANSPORTATION
Easily accessible by water, road, rail and air.

POPULATION
Over 3 million; 2.8% growth rate.

ETHNIC GROUPS

Major tribes: Tiv and Idoma.
Other tribes: Igede, Etulo, Jukum, Hausa, Akweya and Nyifon. The people are mostly farmers and are famous for their cheerful hospitable disposition.

CULTURE

Rich and diverse cultural heritage that has won acclaim at National and International cultural festivals e.g Spanish Expo'92. Types of dance include Ingyough, Ange, Anchanakupa, Swange, Annuwowo, Odabaru, Kwagh-hir Puppet theatrical spectacle etc.

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