A Comprehensive History of Benue State, Nigeria

Benue State, often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” is located in the North Central region of Nigeria. Named after the Benue River, the second-largest river in Nigeria, the state is rich in history, cultural diversity, agricultural potential, and political relevance.

1. Creation and Geography

• Date Created: February 3, 1976
• Created From: The former Benue-Plateau State
• Capital City: Makurdi
• Land Area: Approximately 34,059 square kilometers
• Neighboring States: Nassarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Enugu, Ebonyi, Cross River
• International Border: Cameroon (to the southeast)

Benue was created during the military administration of General Murtala Mohammed in a state reorganization exercise aimed at bringing government closer to the people.

2. Historical Background

Pre-Colonial Era

Before colonial rule, the territory now known as Benue State was inhabited by several ethnic groups, each with its own traditional systems of governance, economy, and culture.

Key Indigenous Groups:

• Tiv: The largest ethnic group, predominantly farmers and spread across much of the state.
• Idoma: Found mainly in the southern part of the state; they have a strong chieftaincy system led by the Och’Idoma.
• Igede: Located mostly in Oju and Obi LGAs, with unique cultural identities.

These communities had decentralized societies governed by elders and clan heads, with strong ties to agriculture, communal living, and traditional religion.

Colonial Era

• The British colonized the area in the early 20th century, merging it into the Northern Protectorate.
• The introduction of indirect rule disrupted traditional governance but brought in missionary schools, Christianity, and modern infrastructure.
• Benue’s strategic location along the Benue River facilitated colonial trade and transport.

Makurdi became a colonial administrative hub and a key railway crossing between northern and eastern Nigeria.

3. Cultural Heritage

Benue State is home to over 20 ethnic groups, each with a vibrant cultural identity. Key features of its rich culture include:

Festivals and Ceremonies:

• Kwagh-Hir Theatre (Tiv): A dramatic puppet-theatre performance expressing social commentary and folklore.
• Alekwu Festival (Idoma): A spiritual celebration involving ancestral worship.
• Igede Agba Festival: Celebrated by the Igede people to mark harvest time and community unity.

Attire and Music:

• The Tiv are known for their black-and-white striped “A’nger” cloth.
• Traditional music includes drums, flutes, and locally made instruments used in dances and rituals.

4. Political Evolution

First Republic and Regional Politics:

• Prior to its creation, the area was part of the Northern Region under the old Nigerian regional structure.
• Leaders from Benue played key roles in national politics, often advocating for the interests of the Middle Belt.

Statehood and Governance:

Since 1976, Benue State has had a mix of military and civilian governors. Notable governors include:

• Aper Aku (1979–1983): The first elected civilian governor, known for developmental strides in education and agriculture.
• George Akume (1999–2007): Former governor and current senator.
• Samuel Ortom (2015–2023): Known for his vocal advocacy against herder-farmer conflicts.
• Hyacinth Alia (2023–present): A Catholic priest-turned-politician.

5. Economy

Benue’s economy is primarily agrarian, earning it the title “Food Basket of the Nation.”

Major Agricultural Products:

• Yam (Benue is Nigeria’s largest yam producer)
• Cassava
• Maize
• Soybeans
• Rice
• Groundnuts
• Oranges and Mangoes

Livestock and Fishing:

• Cattle rearing, poultry, and fishing (especially along River Benue) contribute significantly to local livelihoods.

Mineral Resources:

Benue is also rich in untapped mineral resources like:

• Limestone
• Gypsum
• Lead
• Baryte
• Kaolin

However, mining activities are still underdeveloped compared to the state’s agricultural potential.

6. Education and Institutions

Benue has invested significantly in education over the decades. Key institutions include:

• Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi
• University of Agriculture, Makurdi (now Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University)
• College of Education, Katsina-Ala
• Several polytechnics and technical colleges

7. Challenges

Despite its potential, Benue State faces several development challenges:

a. Herdsmen-Farmer Clashes:

• One of the most pressing issues in recent years. The state’s rich farmlands have become flashpoints in conflicts over grazing rights and farmland use.
• This has led to loss of lives, displacement, and food insecurity.

b. Infrastructure Deficit:

• Poor road networks, especially in rural areas, hinder the movement of goods and services.
• Healthcare and electricity infrastructure are still developing.

c. Youth Unemployment and Underdevelopment:

• Despite being agriculturally rich, many youths remain unemployed due to lack of agro-industrialization.

8. Tourism and Natural Sites

Benue boasts several natural attractions, though many are underdeveloped for tourism:

• River Benue: A major inland waterway and historical trade route.
• Montane forests and waterfalls in Ushongo and Gboko.
• Ikwe Wildlife Park
• Tor Tiv Palace in Gboko — the cultural seat of the Tiv people.

9. Notable Figures from Benue State

• Joseph Tarka: A pioneer of the Middle Belt Movement and advocate for minority rights.
• David Mark: Former Senate President of Nigeria.
• George Akume: Former governor and current Minister of Special Duties.
• Susan Waya: Businesswoman and socialite.
• Paul Unongo (late): Political elder statesman and nationalist.

Benue State remains one of Nigeria’s most agriculturally endowed and culturally rich states. Its strategic position along the Benue River has shaped its history from pre-colonial times through colonial rule and modern governance. While challenges remain, particularly in security and infrastructure, Benue holds immense potential as a center of agriculture, culture, and national unity.