Minna

For other uses, see Minna (disambiguation).
Location of Minna in Nigeria

Minna is a city (estimated population 304,113 in 2007) in west central Nigeria. It is the capital of Niger State, one of Nigeria's 36 federal states, and is the headquarters of Chanchaga Local Government Area.

History

Archaeological evidence suggests settlement in the area dates back to about 47,000-37,000 years ago. Muslim culture filtered into Minna by way of the ancient Saharan trade routes and the city contains many mosques and Muslim organizations. Christianity is a major population in Nigerian Niger State, where Sharia is valid. Minna has a Living Faith Church, a Grace Baptist Church, Nupe Kalvari Churches, Anglican Churches, ECWA Churches, Baptist Churches, Victory Christian Church, The Apostolic Church and many others too numerous to mention. Minna is the home of Nigeria's former military President Gen. Ibrahim B. Babangida, and of former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar. Dr. Mu`azu Aliyu Babangida resides in Minna as the present governor of Niger State. He served a term of four years (2007-2011), and is currently serving another term of four years (2011-2015) - his last term since the political system does not allow elected governor to serve more than two terms.

Economy

Cotton, guinea corn, and ginger are the main agricultural products of the city. Yam is also extensively cultivated throughout the city. The economy also supports cattle trading, brewing, shea nut processing and gold mining. [1] Traditional industries and crafts in Minna include leather work and metalworking,

Transport

Minna is connected to neighboring cities by road. Abuja, the capital of the country, is only 150 km away. Minna is also connected by railroad to both Kano in the north and Ibadan and Lagos in the south which is also boarder by Illori city. The city is served by Minna Airport.

Education

Minna is the seat of the Federal University of Technology Minna, that has campuses in Gidan-Kwano and Bosso, the Niger State College of Education, and the Police Secondary School.

See also

References

  1. ↑ "The Concice Britannica Encyclopaedia". Retrieved 2007-02-20.

Coordinates: 9°36′50″N 6°33′25″E / 9.61389°N 6.55694°E