Kogi State, known as the "Confluence State," is situated in central Nigeria. Established on August 27, 1991, during General Ibrahim Babangida's regime, it was carved out from parts of Kwara and Benue States. Its capital, Lokoja, holds historical significance as the confluence of the Niger  and Benue rivers and a colonial administrative center.

Geography and Borders

Kogi is bordered by ten entities: Niger State (northwest), the Federal Capital Territory (north), Nassarawa (northeast), Benue (east, Enugu and Anambra (southeast), Edo (south, Ondo (southwest), Ekiti, and Kwara ((west). This strategic location makes it a transit hub between northern and southern Nigeria.

People and Culture

The state is ethnically diverse, with the Igala (predominant in the east), Ebira (central), and Okun (Yoruba subgroup in the west) as major groups. Minorities include Bassa, Nupe, and Gwari. Cultural festivals like the Ebira Ovia Oses and Igala Ocho reflect this diversity. However, ethnic rivalries occasionally influence politics.

Economy

Kogi boasts rich mineral resources: coal, limestone, iron ore, marble, and talc. Agriculture thrives with yam, cassava, maize, and cash crops like oil palm. Despite this, underdevelopment persists due to infrastructural deficits and unemployment. Lokoja's river port potential remains underutilized.

Tourism and Heritage

Key sites include:

• Confluence of Niger and Benue Rivers: A natural landmark.

• Mount Patti: Offers panoramic views of Lokoja.

• Lord Lugard's Residence: Colonial-era relic.

• Iron of Liberty: Symbolizes the abolition of slavery.

• First Primary School in Northern Nigeria (1896): Located in Locoja.

Education

Tertiary institutions include Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State University (Anyigba), and Kogi State Polytechnic. Literacy rates are moderate, but access to quality education remains a challenge.

Challenges

• Security: Communal clashes, banditry, and kidnappings.

• Infrastructure: Poor road networks hinder economic growth.

• Political Issues: Governance controversies, such as those under former Governor Yahaya Bello, and ethnic tensions.

Recent Developments

Governor Usman Ododo, elected in 2023, oversees ongoig infrastructure projects. Efforts to harness mineral resources and improve agriculture are priorities, though challenges like corruption persist.