Benue State

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Benue State

General Information
Name	Benue State
Native Name	Ọ̀kpẹ̀nẹ̀
Other Names
Settlement Type	State
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	7°20′N 8°45′E
Map
Population
Total	4,253,641
Density	per km²
Area
Total	34,059 km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Benue State is one of the 36 states of Nigeria, located in the North Central region of the country. It is named after the Benue River, which is the second largest river in Nigeria. The state was created on February 3, 1976, from the former Benue-Plateau State. Benue State is known as the "Food Basket of the Nation" due to its rich agricultural produce.

Geography

Benue State is located in the Middle Belt region of Nigeria and shares boundaries with five other states: Nasarawa State to the north, Taraba State to the east, Cross River State to the south, Enugu State to the southwest, and Kogi State to the west. The state also shares an international boundary with the Republic of Cameroon to the southeast.

The state covers an area of 34,059 square kilometers and is characterized by a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the wet season (April to October) and the dry season (November to March). The Benue River is a significant geographical feature, providing water for agriculture and other uses.

Demographics

Benue State has a population of approximately 4.2 million people, according to the 2006 census. The state is predominantly inhabited by the Tiv people, who are the largest ethnic group, followed by the Idoma people and the Igede people. Other ethnic groups include the Etulo, Abakwa, Jukun, Hausa, and Nyifon.

The predominant languages spoken in Benue State are Tiv, Idoma, and Igede, with English being the official language used for government and educational purposes.

Economy

The economy of Benue State is primarily based on agriculture, which employs over 75% of the state's workforce. The state is a major producer of crops such as yams, rice, beans, cassava, sweet potatoes, maize, soybeans, and groundnuts. Benue State is also known for its production of fruits like oranges, mangoes, and bananas.

In addition to agriculture, Benue State has potential in mining, with deposits of minerals such as limestone, gypsum, and kaolin. However, these resources remain largely untapped.

Education

Benue State is home to several educational institutions, including the Benue State University in Makurdi, the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and the College of Education, Katsina-Ala. These institutions offer a range of programs in various fields, contributing to the educational development of the state.

Culture

Benue State is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and traditional events celebrated by its diverse ethnic groups. The Tiv people celebrate the "Kwagh-hir" festival, which involves storytelling, music, and dance. The Idoma people celebrate the "Aje Alekwu" festival, which is a time to honor their ancestors.

Traditional music and dance are integral parts of the cultural life in Benue State, with instruments such as the "agidigbo" and "akpala" being commonly used.

Also see

• Nasarawa State
• Taraba State
• Cross River State
• Enugu State
• Kogi State
• Tiv people
• Idoma people