Top 10 facts about the ☛biggest state in Nigeria by area

macfranc007 November 03, 2017 Nigeria News today & Breaking news ▷ Read Nigerian newspapers 24/7 George Ibenegbu

Do not miss this opportunity to find out the biggest state by land mass in Nigeria! This state alone is as big as more than ten of the smallest states in the country combined; it was also named after a famous river, and there is a country in the world with the same name! Can you guess what state we are talking about? Continue reading to know the top 10 facts about this state!

The biggest state in Nigeria by land mass

Which state is the biggest in Nigeria?

Niger state is the biggest state in Nigeria; it was named after the Niger River. The capital of this powerful state is Minna. The state also has several other large cities like Suleja, Kontagora and Bida.

The biggest state by area in Nigeria was created in 1976; at that time, the largest North-Western state was divided into Sokoto state and Niger state. The state is home to two major Nigerian power stations. These hydroelectric stations are the Shiroro Dam and Kainji Dam; they are however not the only awesome things you can find in this state. Let us take a look at the top 10 wonderful facts about Niger State.

Top facts about Niger State

1. Land Mass

According to the reports, this state covers 8% of the total area of the country; it’s area is a whopping 74,244 square kilometers. However, this was before the merging of Agwara and Borgu LGAs. As at today, the total land mass is 76,469 square kilometers and the state makes about 10% of the total area of the country!

2. Climate

Niger state has a clear dry-wet season sequence. Its annual rainfall may vary from 1,100mm to 1,600mm. The Southern parts of the state get more rain! The maximum temperature in the region can be witnessed between March and June. The rainy seasons last from about 120 to 150 days depending on the region of the state. The fertile soils of the state permit cultivation of various staple crops. It also allows forestry development and freshwater fishing.

3. Industrialization

Niger state is an agrarian state; the state officials make efforts to support a great variety of allied agro-industries. Moreover, this state is rich in various mineral resources which can become a great contribution to any kind of business. The government has plans to invest in the infrastructure of the state to provide acceleration of businesses in many spheres.

4. Population, Religion, and Occupation

According to the Census data from 2006, Niger State is home for about 4 million people. Therefore, even if it is the largest state by land mass, it is only the 18th largest by population. About 85% of the people in Niger state are involved in the agricultural sector of the economy.

The other parts of its population are involved in arts, crafts, businesses and white collar jobs. This region of the country is predominantly Islamic. At the same time, there is a large number of Christians. You can also find atheists and traditional religionists there.

5. Zuma Rock

This beautiful giant rock is one of the symbols of this state. One of the main purposes of this rock was to protect Gwari from the invading neighboring forces. It was also an object for fighting during inter-tribal wars. The locals believe that Zuma Rock is sacred and have special good powers. This rock is really beautiful and unique, that is why a lot of Nigerians like to travel to this rock for relaxation and picnics.

6. Kainji Lake National Park

Kainji Lake is the Western reservoir of the Niger River. Kainji Lake National Park is one of the most picturesque sites in Nigeria. It was established in 1978. As at today, it covers a territory of more than five thousand square kilometers.

It is not only the largest park in Nigeria but also in the whole Africa! The park is closely linked with the hydroelectric complex. Do not forget about the abundant wildlife! In this park, you can meet animals like elephants, crocodiles, duikers, monkeys, baboons, antelopes, etc.

7. Nagwamatse Well

It is said that this sacred well was dug up by the hero, Nagwamatse during the Jihad. The hero struck his sword into the ground and water splurted out from where his sword pierced. Nagwamatse found the water spot during his prayers.

8. Gurara Fall

If you have ever visited Niger state but never saw the Gurara Falls, then you should visit this state once again! This waterfall is located on the Suleja and Minna road linking. You can witness a sheer drop of water from 30 meters height. Gurara Fall spans for over 200 meters.

9. Bina Footprints

You can see these footprints on the top of a hill in Bina village which is located near Muye and Lapai. You might also know this footprint by another name – “Dauda Woyaba footprints”. It is believed that Dabo started his journey from Bina to travel to Gulu and build his mosque. These footprints are still at Bina hilltop.

10. Dr. Ladi Kwali Pottery Centre

Have you ever heard about the pottery master called Mr. Michael Cardew? He was a pottery master with an international reputation. His international pottery center was established in 1951 and is one of the greatest pottery centers not only in Nigeria but also in the world!

Conclusion

Niger State is the biggest state in Nigeria by land mass. Therefore, if you have never been to Niger State, it is strongly recommended that you visit this fantastic place; you will love every bit of the experience. Now that you know the top 10 most interesting facts about the largest state in Nigeria, would you love to visit it?

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