Lokoja

Lokoja is a city in central Nigeria and the capital of Kogi State. It sits at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, a position that has shaped its role as a river port and administrative hub in the region. The name Lokoja is traditionally linked to the Loko people who inhabited the area before the modern settlement.

Historically, Lokoja rose to prominence during the colonial era as an important administrative and commercial center. Its strategic river location made it a key crossing point and gateway for trade and governance in the wider Niger-Benue region. Today, it remains an important urban and administrative center within Kogi State.

Geographically, the city experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from April to October, while the dry season occurs from November to March. Average temperatures vary seasonally, with warm conditions common throughout the year and cooler periods during the harmattan. The confluence area is known for its riverine landscapes and related views.

Economy and transport in Lokoja are anchored by administration, commerce, and river-based activity. The city serves as a regional market town for agricultural produce and provides services to travelers along the Niger-Benue corridor. It is connected by road and river transport and is home to higher education institutions that contribute to local growth, including Federal University Lokoja.

Culture and landmarks reflect Lokoja’s diverse heritage. The confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers is a prominent geographical landmark, around which the city hosts markets, religious centers, and cultural facilities that illustrate the continuity of its historical and contemporary community life.