Kogi State

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Kogi State
State nickname: The Confluence State
Location
Location of Kogi State in Nigeria
Statistics
Governor
(List)
Clarence Olafemi (PDP)
Date Created 27 August 1991
Capital Lokoja
Area 29,833 km²
Ranked 13th
Population
1991 Census
2005 estimate
Ranked 24th
2,099,046
3,595,789
ISO 3166-2 NG-KO

Kogi is a state in the north-central zone of Nigeria. It is popularly called the Confluence State because the confluence of River Niger and River Benue is at its capital, Lokoja, which is the first administrative capital of modern-day Nigeria. It was in Lokoja, while gazing out at the river that stretched before her, that Lord Lugard's wife coined the name “Nigeria.” Lokoja is 2-hour drive from Abuja.

Contents

[edit] History and people

The state was formed in 1991 from parts of Kwara State and Benue State. The State as presently constituted comprises the peoples of the defunct Kabba Province of Northern Nigeria.

There are four main ethnic groups and languages in Kogi: Igala, Ebira, Okun (similar to Yoruba), and Bassa.

[edit] Local Government Areas

Kogi State contains 21 of Nigeria's 774 Local Government Areas. They are:

  • Igalamela-Odolu
  • Ijumu
  • Kabba/Bunu
  • Kogi (Local Government Area)
  • Lokoja
  • Mopa-Muro
  • Ofu

[edit] Tourism

Kogi State, by virtue of its geography, offers tourists unique experience. These attractions include natural land features, fascinating sceneries, historic monuments and relics. Being only 2-hour drive from Abuja, tourists can plan day trips to the sites. Important tourist attractions in Kogi State include the colonial relics (such as Lord Lugard House), the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue, Ogidi (An African town with formations of Igneous Rock mountains and a traditional art & craft industry).

[edit] Transport and communications

Kogi State connects the Federal Capital Territory with 22 Southern States. Being in close proximity to the federal capital territory, Abuja International Airport serves as the national and international gateway for air travellers from and to the state. Good telecommunications services is available in the state.

[edit] Agriculture and resources

Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy and the principal cash crops There are many Farm, produce from the state notably coffee, cocoa, palm oil, cashews, peanuts, maize, cassava, yam, rice and melon.

Mineral resources include coal, limestone, iron, petroleum and tin. The state is home to the largest iron and steel industry in Nigeria and one the largest cement factories in Africa is currently being built there.

[edit] Sports

Kogi State has produced sprinters such as Sunday Bada and other sportsmen, who have contributed to the growth of sports worldwide. Kogi United is a football team based in the state. Other sports, such as swimming, handball, and table tennis are actively promoted in the state.

[edit] External links

Coordinates: 7°30′N, 6°42′E