Benue

Benue is a state in central Nigeria within the North Central geopolitical zone. It was created in 1976 from the former Benue-Plateau State and is named after the Benue River, which flows through the state and forms part of its southern boundary. The capital and largest city is Makurdi. The state borders Nasarawa to the north, Kogi to the west, Taraba to the northeast, and Cross River and Ebonyi to the southeast and south.

Benue sits on the Benue River basin with a mix of lowland plains and some hills. It experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The state is predominantly rural, with agriculture as the main economic activity. Key crops include yam, cassava, maize, sorghum, rice, and oil palm, while livestock farming, particularly cattle, is also important. Benue is often referred to as the "Food Basket of the Nation" for its large agricultural output. The population is diverse, with major ethnic groups such as the Tiv and Idoma, and smaller communities including Igede and others; languages include Tiv and Idoma, with English as the official language.

Benue's governance consists of a governor and a 30-member State House of Assembly, and it is divided into 23 Local Government Areas. The state has several higher education institutions, including Benue State University in Makurdi and the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi. Cultural and religious practices vary across communities, contributing to a rich regional culture.