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Niger State

Map of Niger State, Nigeria
Map of Niger State, Nigeria

Niger State, the “Power State,” is the largest state in Nigeria by landmass and the heart of the nation’s hydroelectric power generation. Home to three major dams, it is a critical pillar of Nigeria’s energy and agricultural sectors. Naija News provides consistent coverage of Niger State’s “Farmer Governor” initiatives, security updates, and infrastructural development.

Quick Facts & Profile

Category Details
Current Governor Mohammed Umar Bago (APC)
Capital Minna
Founded February 3, 1976
Slogan The Power State
Geopolitical Zone North Central
Area 76,363 km²
Population ~6.7 Million+ (Estimated)
ISO Code NG-NI

Geography and Borders

Niger State shares an international border with the Republic of Benin to the west. Domestically, it is bordered by Zamfara to the north, Kebbi to the northwest, Kaduna and the FCT to the northeast and east, Kwara and Kogi States to the south.

Governance: From 1976 to Date

Created from the old North-Western State, Niger has been a training ground for several of Nigeria’s top military and civilian leaders:

  • Murtala Nyako (1976–1977): The first Military Governor.
  • Awwal Ibrahim (1979–1983): The first Executive Governor.
  • Abdulkadir Kure (1999–2007): Focused on rural transformation and Sharia implementation.
  • Babangida Aliyu (2007–2015): Known as the “Chief Servant” governor.
  • Abubakar Sani Bello (2015–2023): Focused on youth empowerment and security.
  • Mohammed Umar Bago (2023–Present): Currently leading a massive “Agricultural Revolution” to turn the state into Nigeria’s food hub.

Education and Landmarks

The state is home to the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) and the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU) in Lapai. Iconic landmarks include the Kainji, Shiroro, and Jebba Dams, as well as the majestic Gurara Waterfalls and Zuma Rock.