Makurdi

Makurdi is the capital and largest city of Benue State in central Nigeria. Located on the southern bank of the Benue River, across from the river’s lower reaches, it serves as the state’s administrative, commercial, and educational hub. The area has long been home to the Tiv and Idoma peoples and developed as a regional trading center during the colonial period.

Historically, Makurdi became the capital of Benue-Plateau State in 1967 and retained capital status after Benue State was created in 1976. Today it remains the political center of Benue, hosting state government offices, institutions, and a growing urban economy that centers on agriculture, trade, and services.

Geography and climate: Makurdi sits on a plateau with a tropical savanna climate. The city experiences a rainy season roughly from April to October and a dry season from November to March, with warm to hot temperatures prevailing most of the year.

Economy and education: The economy is anchored by agriculture, with crops such as cassava, yam, maize, and sorghum, along with livestock trade and related services. Wadata Market is a major commercial center. Makurdi is also an education hub, housing Benue State University and the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM), plus other colleges and institutions.

Culture and transport: The city is ethnically diverse, with Tiv and Idoma communities contributing to its cultural life, markets, and festivals. Transportation relies on road networks connecting to other major cities, river transport on the Benue, and a domestic air service supported by a local airport.