NigerBenue

NigerBenue is a term that refers to the confluence and subsequent joint course of two major rivers in West Africa: the Niger River and the Benue River. The Niger River, the third longest river in Africa, originates in Guinea and flows in a distinctive crescent shape through Mali, Niger, and Nigeria before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The Benue River, a major tributary of the Niger, rises in Cameroon and flows predominantly northwest through Nigeria.

The confluence of these two significant waterways occurs near Lokoja in Nigeria. From this point, they merge and continue their journey south as a single, larger river, maintaining the name Niger River until it reaches the Atlantic Ocean via the vast Niger Delta. This confluence is a crucial geographical feature, influencing the hydrology, ecology, and human settlement patterns of the region. The combined flow significantly impacts river navigation, fishing grounds, and agricultural activities in the surrounding areas. Historically, the Niger and Benue rivers have served as vital arteries for trade and transportation, facilitating the movement of goods and people across vast distances. The waters and their floodplains support a rich biodiversity, providing habitats for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife.