Niger State is located in the north-central region of Nigeria and is the largest state by land area in the country. It was created on February 3, 1976, from the former North-Western State. The capital city of Niger State is Minna, which serves as the administrative and economic center. Niger State is strategically located, sharing borders with Kogi, Kwara, Kaduna, and Zamfara States, and it has an international border with Benin Republic. The state is predominantly inhabited by the Nupe, Hausa, Gbagyi, and Koro ethnic groups. Niger State is known for its rich agricultural resources, mineral deposits, and natural beauty. Key agricultural activities include crop farming, livestock rearing, and fishing, and the state also has significant mineral resources like gold, limestone, and tin. Learn about the 25 Local Government Areas Niger state, capital city Minna, key tourist spots like Zuma Rock, and important economic activities.
List of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Niger State and Their Headquarters
Niger State has 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Below is a list of the LGAs and their respective headquarters:
| S/N | Local Government Area (LGA) | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Agaie | Agaie |
| 2 | Agwara | Agwara |
| 3 | Bida | Bida |
| 4 | Borgu | New Bussa |
| 5 | Bosso | Bosso |
| 6 | Chanchaga | Minna |
| 7 | Edati | Edati |
| 8 | Gbako | Obaga |
| 9 | Gurara | Gurara |
| 10 | Katcha | Katcha |
| 11 | Kontagora | Kontagora |
| 12 | Lavun | Doko |
| 13 | Mariga | Mariga |
| 14 | Mokwa | Mokwa |
| 15 | Munya | Tungan Magajiya |
| 16 | Paikoro | Paikoro |
| 17 | Rafi | Daza |
| 18 | Shiroro | Kuta |
| 19 | Suleja | Suleja |
| 20 | Tafa | Tafa |
| 21 | Wushishi | Wushishi |
| 22 | Kpada | Kpada |
| 23 | Piti | Piti |
| 24 | Tsonga | Tsonga |
| 25 | Woro | Woro |
Largest Local Government Areas in Niger State
Some LGAs in Niger State are among the largest in Nigeria, covering vast stretches of savanna, farmland, and riverine areas. These LGAs are central to agriculture, fishing, and economic development. The table below lists the largest LGAs.
| Local Government Area | Headquarters | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Borgu | New Bussa | 11,200 |
| Kontagora | Kontagora | 6,050 |
| Suleja | Suleja | 3,150 |
| Lapai | Lapai | 3,051 |
| Bida | Bida | 1,698 |
Smallest Local Government Areas in Niger State
Some LGAs in Niger State are relatively small in landmass but remain important because of their dense population, trade activities, and administrative significance. The table below highlights the smallest LGAs.
| Local Government Area | Headquarters | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Paikoro | Paiko | 2,066 |
| Gurara | Gawu Babangida | 1,925 |
| Rijau | Rijau | 3,196 |
| Katcha | Katcha | 1,681 |
| Agaie | Agaie | 1,903 |
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Interesting Facts About Niger State
- Agricultural Hub: Niger State is one of Nigeria’s largest producers of rice, maize, millet, and groundnuts.
- Mineral Resources: The state has vast deposits of gold, limestone, marble, and tin, contributing to Nigeria’s mining industry.
- Natural Attractions: The Kainji Dam, Zungeru Falls, and Zuma Rock are key tourist attractions in Niger State.
- Strategic Location: Niger State’s location between the northern and southern regions of Nigeria makes it a significant trade route.
- Educational Institutions: Niger State is home to institutions such as Niger State Polytechnic and Federal University of Technology, Minna.
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Conclusion – Local Government Areas in Niger State
Niger State, with its 25 Local Government Areas, is a large and economically important state in north-central Nigeria. Known for its agriculture, mineral resources, and natural beauty, it continues to play a key role in Nigeria’s economy. The state’s capital, Minna, serves as an important center for governance, trade, and education.
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Revision Questions and Answers on Niger State
- How many Local Government Areas are there in Niger State?
- Answer: 25
- What is the capital city of Niger State?
- Answer: Minna
- When was Niger State created?
- Answer: February 3, 1976
- Which ethnic groups are the major inhabitants of Niger State?
- Answer: Nupe, Hausa, Gbagyi, and Koro
- What is the main economic activity in Niger State?
- Answer: Agriculture, including crop farming, livestock rearing, and fishing
- What are the major mineral resources found in Niger State?
- Answer: Gold, limestone, marble, and tin
- Which LGA has Minna as its headquarters?
- Answer: Chanchaga LGA
- What is one major tourist attraction in Niger State?
- Answer: Zuma Rock
- Which LGA has New Bussa as its headquarters?
- Answer: Borgu LGA
- Name one university located in Niger State.
- Answer: Federal University of Technology, Minna