Taraba State is located in northeastern Nigeria and is known as the “Nature’s Gift to the Nation” due to its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and abundant natural resources. It was created on August 27, 1991, from the former Gongola State. The state capital is Jalingo, which serves as the administrative and economic hub. Taraba State shares borders with Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, and Adamawa States, as well as the Republic of Cameroon to the east. The state is known for its rich cultural diversity, with over 80 ethnic groups, including the Jukun, Mumuye, Fulani, Tiv, and Kuteb. Discover Taraba State, Nigeria, known as “Nature’s Gift to the Nation.” Learn about its 16 Local Government Areas in Taraba, capital city Jalingo, diverse cultures, stunning landscapes like the Mambilla Plateau, and major attractions such as Gashaka Gumti National Park.
List of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Taraba State and Their Headquarters
Taraba State has 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Below is a list of the LGAs and their respective headquarters:
| S/N | Local Government Area (LGA) | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ardo Kola | Sunkani |
| 2 | Bali | Bali |
| 3 | Donga | Donga |
| 4 | Gashaka | Serti |
| 5 | Gassol | Mutum Biyu |
| 6 | Ibi | Ibi |
| 7 | Jalingo | Jalingo |
| 8 | Karim Lamido | Karim Lamido |
| 9 | Kurmi | Baissa |
| 10 | Lau | Lau |
| 11 | Sardauna | Gembu |
| 12 | Takum | Takum |
| 13 | Ussa | Lissam |
| 14 | Wukari | Wukari |
| 15 | Yorro | Pantisawa |
| 16 | Zing | Zing |
Largest Local Government Areas in Taraba State
Taraba State, located in the North-East region of Nigeria, is one of the largest states in landmass and has LGAs that cover vast areas. These large LGAs are important for farming, grazing, and cultural diversity. The table below presents the largest LGAs in the state.
| Local Government Area | Headquarters | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Karim-Lamido | Karim-Lamido | 6,620 |
| Lau | Lau | 3,660 |
| Sardauna | Gembu | 4,828 |
| Gassol | Mutum Biyu | 5,548 |
| Bali | Bali | 4,868 |
Smallest Local Government Areas in Taraba State
While Taraba has many large LGAs, some occupy smaller land areas yet remain vital for their administrative role and population concentration. The table below highlights the smallest LGAs.
| Local Government Area | Headquarters | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Ardo-Kola | Sunkani | 2,262 |
| Jalingo | Jalingo | 195 |
| Kurmi | Baissa | 1,610 |
| Takum | Takum | 2,503 |
| Ussa | Lissam | 1,511 |
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Interesting Facts About Taraba State
- Natural Beauty: Taraba is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Mambilla Plateau, which is the highest point in Nigeria.
- Tourist Attractions: Major tourist sites include the Gashaka Gumti National Park, Mambilla Tea Estates, Chappal Waddi Mountain, and Nguroje Waterfalls.
- Agriculture: The state is a major producer of tea, coffee, maize, rice, yams, and cattle.
- Mineral Resources: Taraba is rich in bauxite, gypsum, kaolin, and limestone.
- Cultural Diversity: With over 80 ethnic groups, the state is known for colorful festivals such as the Nwonyo Fishing Festival in Ibi.
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Conclusion on the Local Government Areas in Taraba State
Taraba State is a culturally vibrant and naturally beautiful part of Nigeria, known for its agriculture, tourism, and mineral wealth. With 16 Local Government Areas, the state contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy. Its scenic landscapes, diverse cultures, and tourist attractions make it a unique destination in Nigeria.
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Revision Questions and Answers On Taraba state
- When was Taraba State created?
- Answer: August 27, 1991
- What is the capital city of Taraba State?
- Answer: Jalingo
- How many Local Government Areas are in Taraba State?
- Answer: 16
- What is the nickname of Taraba State?
- Answer: Nature’s Gift to the Nation
- Name two major ethnic groups in Taraba State.
- Answer: Jukun and Mumuye
- Which LGA has Gembu as its headquarters?
- Answer: Sardauna LGA
- What is the highest point in Nigeria located in Taraba State?
- Answer: Mambilla Plateau
- Name one major tourist attraction in Taraba State.
- Answer: Gashaka Gumti National Park
- What is a major agricultural product of Taraba State?
- Answer: Tea
- Name one mineral resource found in Taraba State.
- Answer: Bauxite