Plateau State

Plateau State is a significant administrative region in Nigeria. It is located within the North Central geopolitical zone. The capital city of the state is Jos. The region is officially nicknamed the "Home of Peace and Tourism." It is home to a population of approximately 4.7 million people.

The geography is defined by the Jos Plateau. This area features a range of hills and unique rock formations. Bare rocks are often scattered across wide grasslands.

The physical landscape was shaped by complex geological processes. About 160 million years ago, younger granite intruded through older granite rock. This process created the unusual scenery seen today. Many hillocks have gentle slopes that emerge from the ground like mushrooms. These hills are often covered with huge boulders.

Later, volcanic activity occurred approximately 50 million years ago. This activity created volcanoes and vast basaltic plateaus from lava flows. It also formed deep valleys and pediments. Pediments are surfaces made smooth by the process of erosion.

The altitude of the state plays a major role in its climate. Although it sits in a tropical zone, the high elevation provides a near-temperate climate. The average temperature stays between 13 and 22 degrees Celsius.

Between December and February, the Harmattan winds bring the coldest weather. The warmest temperatures usually occur during the dry months of March and April. Rainfall is highest during the wet season in July and August. This cooler climate has a biological effect on the region. It leads to a reduced incidence of some tropical diseases, such as malaria.

Plateau State is a vital source of water for northern Nigeria. The Jos Plateau feeds many important rivers. These include the Kaduna, Gongola, Hadeja, and Damaturu rivers. The state also possesses many valuable natural resources. These minerals include tin, columbite, and various types of granite. Other resources include bauxite, coal, emeralds, iron ore, and marble.

Years of tin and columbite mining have even changed the landscape. These activities have left the state with deep gorges and lakes.

Tourism is a major part of the state's identity, though it faces challenges. The state has many natural attractions that draw visitors from within Nigeria. The Jos Zoo was established in 1957 and houses many animals, birds, and reptiles.

The National Museum in Jos was founded in 1952. It holds famous Nok terracotta heads and artifacts dating from 500 BC to 200 AD.

Other notable sites include Assop Falls and the Kurra Falls. Wase Rock is a massive dome-shaped inselberg that rises 450 meters high. It serves as a protected bird sanctuary for the white pelican.

The Kerang highlands are also known for natural mountain springs used for bottled water.

The history of Plateau State involves many changes to its borders. In the early 20th century, the British exerted colonial control. Much of the area was originally part of Bauchi Province. In 1926, Plateau Province was created from Jos and Pankshin Divisions. Later, in 1967, the Benue-Plateau State was formed. In 1976, under General Yakubu Gowon, Plateau State was officially created. Finally, in 1996, Nasarawa State was carved out of the western half of the region.

Today, the state is home to over forty ethno-linguistic groups. Many of these indigenous groups are primarily farmers.

People from other parts of Nigeria, such as the Igbo and Yoruba, have also settled here. While many languages are spoken, English is the official language. Hausa is also commonly used for commerce. The state is managed through 17 local government areas. These areas are led by elected chairmen and councils to serve the diverse populations.