Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Taraba State: Full List & Details

Taraba State, located in Nigeria’s North-East geopolitical zone, is known as the “Nature’s Gift to the Nation” due to its vast natural endowments, ranging from scenic mountains and waterfalls to fertile valleys and mineral-rich landscapes. With a strong agricultural base and diverse ethnic population, Taraba is one of Nigeria’s most ecologically and culturally diverse states.

Taraba State is administratively structured into 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs). These LGAs serve as critical governance units, facilitating developmental projects, local policymaking, grassroots engagement, and resource distribution. Each LGA reflects distinct cultural identities and economic activities that contribute to the state’s social and economic development.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the Local Government Areas in Taraba State, highlighting their headquarters, key features, economic activities, and local significance.

Overview of Taraba State

• Capital: Jalingo

• Date Created: August 27, 1991

• Slogan: Nature’s Gift to the Nation

• Region: North-East Nigeria

• Major Languages: Jukun, Mumuye, Fulfulde, Tiv, Hausa, Wurkum

• Number of LGAs: 16

• Main Economic Activities: Agriculture, livestock rearing, fishing, tourism, and trade

Full List of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Taraba State

Here is the comprehensive list of the 16 LGAs in Taraba State and their respective headquarters:

Key Features and Economic Activities Across LGAs in Taraba State

1. Ardo Kola

• Predominantly agrarian with large-scale farming of crops like maize, groundnut, and sorghum.

• Hosts Fulani pastoral communities engaged in cattle rearing.

• Strategically located close to Jalingo, benefiting from trade flow.

2. Bali

• Agricultural powerhouse with vast farmlands for yam, cassava, sesame, and rice.

• Home to several ethnic groups including Tiv, Fulani, and Jukun.

• Livestock and local markets play a vital role in economic sustenance.

3. Donga

• Rich cultural heritage with strong Tiv and Jukun presence.

• Renowned for fishing along the Donga River.

• Produces crops like rice, millet, and groundnut.

4. Gashaka

• Home to the Gashaka-Gumti National Park, the largest in Nigeria.

• Eco-tourism and wildlife conservation are key activities.

• Farming of citrus fruits, tea, and coffee thrives in the fertile valleys.

5. Gassol

• Mutum-Biyu serves as a major grain market in the region.

• Agricultural hub with high rice, maize, and cotton production.

• Hosts several agro-based businesses and irrigation projects.

6. Ibi

• Situated along the River Benue with strong riverine economy.

• Known for fishing, boat making, and wet-season farming.

• Acts as a trading junction linking Nasarawa and Taraba.

7. Jalingo

• Capital city and administrative heart of Taraba State.

• Highly urbanized with banks, schools, hospitals, and government offices.

• Booming trade, construction, and services industries.

8. Karim Lamido

• Located along the River Lau and River Benue, ideal for irrigation farming.

• Famous for rice, sugarcane, and vegetable cultivation.

• Diverse population with Hausa, Fulani, and Mumuye settlers.

9. Kurmi

• A mountainous and forest-rich area with cool climate.

• Cocoa, coffee, and timber are primary economic products.

• Home to the Ndola ethnic group with distinct traditional practices.

10. Lau

• Borders Adamawa State and has fertile plains for agriculture.

• Fishing and rice farming are dominant.

• Fast-growing due to recent infrastructural developments.

11. Sardauna

• Located on the scenic Mambilla Plateau, one of the highest in Nigeria.

• Known for its tea plantations, potato farming, and dairy production.

• Gembu town is a major tourist destination with temperate climate.

12. Takum

• An economic and political stronghold in Southern Taraba.

• Significant trading activities, especially in farm produce and livestock.

• Hosts various ethnic groups including Chamba and Kuteb.

13. Ussa

• Shares cultural and economic links with Takum and Sardauna.

• Known for its unique crafts, farming, and cultural dances.

• Agricultural products include cassava, beans, and yam.

14. Wukari

• Major commercial town with a rich Jukun heritage.

• Hosts the Federal University Wukari.

• Produces grains, cotton, and livestock; known for vibrant markets.

15. Yorro

• Primarily rural with emphasis on yam, maize, and sesame farming.

• The Mumuye ethnic group dominates this region.

• Growing interest in agro-processing and cooperative farming.

16. Zing

• Agrarian economy centered around yam, guinea corn, and millet.

• Cultural festivals attract local tourism and cultural promotion.

• Peaceful environment with improving road networks.

Significance of LGAs in Taraba State's Development

The 16 LGAs in Taraba State are instrumental in:

✅ Agricultural development and food security
✅ Community-based education and healthcare delivery
✅ Resource control and conflict management in multicultural areas
✅ Promotion of cultural heritage and eco-tourism
✅ Infrastructure development at grassroots level
✅ Economic planning and youth empowerment

FAQs on Taraba State LGAs

Q1: How many LGAs are in Taraba State?

A: Taraba State has 16 Local Government Areas.

Q2: Which LGA is the most urbanized?

A: Jalingo LGA is the most urbanized and serves as the state capital.

Q3: What is the most agriculturally rich LGA in Taraba?

A: Bali, Gassol, and Karim Lamido LGAs are among the most agriculturally productive.

Q4: Where is Gashaka-Gumti National Park located?

A: It is located in Gashaka LGA and partly in Sardauna LGA.

Q5: What makes Sardauna LGA unique?

A: Sardauna is located on the Mambilla Plateau and is known for its cool climate and tea plantations.

Q6: Is tourism a viable sector in Taraba State?

A: Yes, especially in areas like Gembu, Gashaka, and Kurmi due to their natural attractions.

Conclusion

Taraba State’s LGAs serve as the lifeblood of grassroots governance, cultural expression, and economic development. From the majestic Mambilla Plateau in Sardauna to the eco-rich Gashaka region and fertile farmlands of Bali and Gassol, each LGA contributes uniquely to the state's identity and progress.

For investors, NGOs, policy makers, researchers, and tourists, understanding the demographic and economic profile of Taraba’s LGAs offers valuable insights into development opportunities, local engagement strategies, and regional planning.