North Central
Kogi State
Capital: Lokoja · Created 1991 · ≈4.9 million · Area 29,833 km²
Population
≈4.9 million
Size
29,833 km²
Capital
Lokoja
Year created
1991
Geopolitical zone
North Central
Languages
Igala · Ebira · Okun (Yoruba) · Bassa · Nupe · English
Ethnic groups
- Igala
- Ebira
- Okun-Yoruba
- Bassa
- Nupe
- Ogori
Natural resources
- Iron ore (Ajaokuta)
- Coal (Enjema)
- Limestone
- Marble
- Feldspar
- Gypsum
Signature foods
- Amala with efo riro
- Igala pounded yam with egusi
- Ebira pate
- Ojojo (yam fritters)
Notable people
- Alhaji Aliyu Attah (former Sardauna)
- Prince Abubakar Audu (former governor)
- Yahaya Bello (former governor)
- Barrister Idris Wada (former governor)
Culture, values & festivals
- Igala Egwu-Igala festival
- Ebira Ekuechi festival
- Confluence culture — Niger meets Benue at Lokoja
- Kogi is nicknamed the "Confluence State"
Top places to visit in Kogi
- 1
Confluence of River Niger and River Benue, Lokoja
Iconic meeting point of Nigeria's two great rivers.
- 2
Mount Patti, Lokoja
Lord Lugard's mountain — historic colonial residence with panoramic views.
- 3
Ajaokuta Steel Complex
West Africa's largest steel plant (partially operational).
- 4
Ogidi Rock Formations, Ijumu
Stunning rock outcrops popular with photographers.
About the North Central
Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau. Food basket of the nation, Jos Plateau tin mines, Middle Belt.