Kogi State is located in the North-Central region of Nigeria and was created on August 27, 1991, from parts of Kwara and Benue States. The state is often called the “Confluence State” because it is where River Niger and River Benue meet. Kogi’s capital is Lokoja, which served as Nigeria’s first administrative capital during the colonial era. Kogi State is home to the Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba) people, among others. The state is rich in natural resources such as coal, iron ore, and limestone, making it an important hub for mining and agriculture. Study Kogi State, the “Confluence State” of Nigeria, known for its rich history, natural resources, and 21 Local Government Areas. Learn about its capital, Lokoja, major ethnic groups, tourist attractions, and economic activities.
List of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Kogi State and Their Headquarters
Kogi State consists of 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Below is the list of LGAs and their respective headquarters:
| S/N | Local Government Area (LGA) | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adavi | Ogaminana |
| 2 | Ajaokuta | Ajaokuta |
| 3 | Ankpa | Ankpa |
| 4 | Bassa | Oguma |
| 5 | Dekina | Dekina |
| 6 | Ibaji | Onyedega |
| 7 | Idah | Idah |
| 8 | Igalamela-Odolu | Ajaka |
| 9 | Ijumu | Iyara |
| 10 | Kabba/Bunu | Kabba |
| 11 | Kogi | Koton Karfe |
| 12 | Lokoja | Lokoja |
| 13 | Mopa-Muro | Mopa |
| 14 | Ofu | Ugwolawo |
| 15 | Ogori/Magongo | Akpafa |
| 16 | Okehi | Obangede |
| 17 | Okene | Okene |
| 18 | Olamaboro | Okpo |
| 19 | Omala | Abejukolo |
| 20 | Yagba East | Isanlu |
| 21 | Yagba West | Odo Ere |
Largest Local Government Areas in Kogi State
Kogi State, located in North-Central Nigeria, has some LGAs that cover vast land areas. These large LGAs are significant for agriculture, settlement, and economic planning. The table below highlights the largest LGAs.
| Local Government Area | Headquarters | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Dekina | Dekina | 2,461 |
| Lokoja | Lokoja | 3,180 |
| Idah | Idah | 1,377 |
| Ankpa | Ankpa | 1,200 |
| Kabba/Bunu | Kabba | 2,706 |
Smallest Local Government Areas in Kogi State
Some LGAs in Kogi State are relatively small in land area but still play vital roles in population concentration, trade, and local governance. The table below presents the smallest LGAs in the state.
| Local Government Area | Headquarters | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Ogori/Magongo | Akpafa | 90 |
| Mopa-Muro | Mopa | 350 |
| Ajaokuta | Ajaokuta | 362 |
| Ijumu | Iyara | 600 |
| Adavi | Ogaminana | 730 |
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Interesting Facts About Kogi State
- Geographical Importance: Kogi is the only state in Nigeria that shares a boundary with 10 other states.
- Historical Significance: Lokoja, the capital city, was the first administrative capital of Nigeria under British rule.
- Tourist Attractions: Kogi is home to Mount Patti, where Lord Lugard named Nigeria, and the famous Confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue.
- Economic Strength: The state has abundant solid minerals, including coal, iron ore, and limestone, which support industries like Dangote Cement in Obajana.
- Agriculture: Kogi is known for producing yam, rice, cassava, maize, and cashew nuts.
- Cultural Diversity: The state has a blend of ethnic groups, primarily the Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba) people, each with distinct traditions and festivals.
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Conclusion on Local Government Areas in Kogi State
Kogi State, with Lokoja as its capital, is a strategic and resource-rich state in Nigeria. It is famous for its confluence of rivers, solid minerals, and agricultural output. The state’s 21 Local Government Areas contribute to its cultural and economic diversity, making it one of Nigeria’s most significant states.
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Revision Questions and Answers on Kogi State
- How many Local Government Areas are there in Kogi State?
- Answer: 21
- What is the capital city of Kogi State?
- Answer: Lokoja
- Which two major rivers meet in Kogi State?
- Answer: River Niger and River Benue
- What is the nickname of Kogi State?
- Answer: The Confluence State
- Which LGA has its headquarters in Okene?
- Answer: Okene LGA
- What is the headquarters of Dekina LGA?
- Answer: Dekina
- Which ethnic groups are the major inhabitants of Kogi State?
- Answer: Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba)
- What is the headquarters of Olamaboro LGA?
- Answer: Okpo
- Which historical mountain in Kogi State is linked to the naming of Nigeria?
- Answer: Mount Patti
- What is the main economic activity in Kogi State besides agriculture?
- Answer: Mining (coal, iron ore, and limestone)