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{{Short description|State of Nigeria}}
{{Short description|State of Nigeria}}
{{Redirect|Kwara}}
{{Redirect|Kwara}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2024}}
{{Use Nigerian English|date=May 2024}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->| name = Kwara
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->| name = Kwara
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| elevation_m =
| elevation_m =
| population_footnotes =
| population_footnotes =
| population_total = 2,365,353<ref name="PHC Tables">{{Cite web|url=http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|title=2006 PHC Priority Tables – NATIONAL POPULATION COMMISSION|website=population.gov.ng|language=en-US|access-date=2017-10-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010054745/http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|archive-date=2017-10-10|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| population_total = 2,365,353<ref name="PHC Tables">{{Cite web|url=http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|title=2006 PHC Priority Tables – National Population Commission|website=population.gov.ng|language=en-US|access-date=2017-10-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010054745/http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|archive-date=2017-10-10|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| population_as_of = 2006 census
| population_as_of = 2006 census
| population_est = 3,551,000<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kwara State: Subdivision |url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/nigeria/admin/NGA024__kwara/|access-date=2024-02-05 |website=www.citypopulation.de}}</ref>
| population_est =
| pop_est_as_of =
| pop_est_as_of = 2022
| population_rank = [[List of Nigerian states by population|30th of 36]]
| population_rank = [[List of Nigerian states by population|30th of 36]]
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
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| demographics1_info1 = 2021
| demographics1_info1 = 2021
| demographics1_title2 = Total
| demographics1_title2 = Total
| demographics1_info2 = $8.91&nbsp;billion<ref name="C-GIDD GDP">{{cite web |date=2022-10-13 |year=2022 |editor-last=Okeowo |editor-first=Gabriel |editor2-last=Fatoba |editor2-first=Iyanuoluwa |title=State of States 2022 Edition |url=https://yourbudgit.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2022-State-of-states_Official.pdf |access-date=2023-03-07 |website=Budgit.org |publisher=BudgIT |publication-date=2022-10-13}}</ref><br />[[List of Nigerian states by GDP|35th of 36]]
| demographics1_info2 = $8.91&nbsp;billion<ref name="C-GIDD GDP">{{cite web |date=2022-10-13 |editor-last=Okeowo |editor-first=Gabriel |editor2-last=Fatoba |editor2-first=Iyanuoluwa |title=State of States 2022 Edition |url=https://yourbudgit.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2022-State-of-states_Official.pdf |access-date=2023-03-07 |website=Budgit.org |publisher=BudgIT |publication-date=2022-10-13}}</ref><br />[[List of Nigerian states by GDP|35th of 36]]
| demographics1_title3 = Per capita
| demographics1_title3 = Per capita
| demographics1_info3 = $2,401<ref name="C-GIDD GDP" /><br />[[List of Nigerian states by GDP|26th of 36]]
| demographics1_info3 = $2,401<ref name="C-GIDD GDP" /><br />[[List of Nigerian states by GDP|26th of 36]]
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| footnotes =
| footnotes =
}}
}}
'''Kwara State''' ({{lang-yo|Ìpínlẹ̀ Kwárà}}) is a [[States of Nigeria|state]] in Western<!--Do not change from western to North Central without discussion. This is a geographical description, geopolitical zoning information has been stated in the infobox and also later in this same section--> [[Nigeria]], bordered to the east by [[Kogi State]], to the north by [[Niger State|Niger state]], and to the south by [[Ekiti State|Ekiti]], [[Osun State|Osun]], and [[Oyo State|Oyo]] states, while its western border makes up part of the [[Benin–Nigeria border|international border with]] [[Benin Republic]].<ref name=":4">{{cite web |last1=Onyeakagbu |first1=Adaobi |title=See how all the 36 Nigerian states got their names |url=https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/see-how-all-the-36-nigerian-states-got-their-names/g8bkn2c |website=Pulse.ng |access-date=25 December 2021}}</ref><ref name="Creation">{{cite web |title=This is how the 36 states were created |url=https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/nigerian-states-this-is-how-the-36-states-were-created/mdtnq3e |website=Pulse.ng |date=24 October 2017 |access-date=22 December 2021}}</ref> Its capital is the city of [[Ilorin]] and the state has 16 [[Local government areas of Nigeria|local government areas]].
'''Kwara State''' ({{lang-yo|Ìpínlẹ̀ Kwárà}}) is a [[States of Nigeria|state]] in Western<!--Do not change from western to North Central without discussion. This is a geographical description, geopolitical zoning information has been stated in the infobox and also later in this same section--> [[Nigeria]], bordered to the east by [[Kogi State]], to the north by [[Niger State]], and to the south by [[Ekiti State|Ekiti]], [[Osun State|Osun]], and [[Oyo State|Oyo]] states, while its western border makes up part of the [[Benin–Nigeria border|international border with]] [[Benin Republic]].<ref name=":4">{{cite web |last1=Onyeakagbu |first1=Adaobi |title=See how all the 36 Nigerian states got their names |url=https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/see-how-all-the-36-nigerian-states-got-their-names/g8bkn2c |website=Pulse.ng |access-date=25 December 2021}}</ref><ref name="Creation">{{cite web |title=This is how the 36 states were created |url=https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/nigerian-states-this-is-how-the-36-states-were-created/mdtnq3e |website=Pulse.ng |date=24 October 2017 |access-date=22 December 2021}}</ref> Its capital is the city of [[Ilorin]] and the state has 16 [[Local government areas of Nigeria|local government areas]].


Of the 36 [[states of Nigeria]], Kwara is the [[List of Nigerian states by area|ninth largest in area]], but the [[List of Nigerian states by population|sixth least populous]], with an estimated population of about 3.2 million as at 2016.<ref>{{cite web |title=Population 2006-2016 |url=https://nigerianstat.gov.ng/elibrary/read/474 |website=[[National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria|National Bureau of Statistics]] |access-date=21 December 2021}}</ref> Geographically, Kwara state is split between the [[West Sudanian savanna]] in the west, and the [[Guinean forest–savanna mosaic]] [[List of ecoregions in Nigeria|ecoregion]] in the rest of the state. Important geographic features of the state include rivers, with the [[Niger River|Niger]] flowing along the northern border into [[Lake Jeba]], before continuing as the border, while the Awun, Asa, Aluko, and [[Oyun]] rivers flow through the interior. In the far [[northwest]] of the state is the [[Borgu Game Reserve|Borgu section]] of the [[Kainji National Park]], a large [[List of national parks of Nigeria|national park]] that contains populations of [[grey heron]], [[kob]], [[hippopotamus]], [[African bush elephant]], [[olive baboon]], and [[roan antelope]], along with some of the last remaining [[West African lion]]s on Earth.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Fingesi |first1=U. I. |last2=Tyowua |first2=B. T. |last3=Fajobi |first3=E. A. |last4=Jamilu |first4=S. M. |title=Species richness and diversity of birds in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria |journal=World News of Natural Sciences |date=18 November 2018 |url=http://www.worldnewsnaturalsciences.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/WNOFNS-22-2019-1-11.pdf |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Ajayi |first1=S.R. |last2=Ejidike |first2=Bernadette |last3=Ogunjemite |first3=Babafemi |last4=Olaniyi |first4=Oluwatobi |last5=Adeola |first5=A.J. |title=Population status of Olive Baboon Papio anubis (LESSON, 1827) in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria |journal=Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife & Environment |date=June 2020 |volume=12 |issue=2 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343510440 |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Animal population grows at Kainji Lake National Park |url=https://guardian.ng/news/animal-population-grows-at-kainji-lake-national-park/ |website=[[The Guardian, Nigeria|The Guardian]] |date=3 March 2017 |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref> In the far southwest, a small part of the [[Old Oyo National Park]] contains [[crowned eagle]], [[martial eagle]], [[African buffalo]], [[oribi]], and [[patas monkey]] populations.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Okosodo |first1=Ehi Francis |last2=Orimaye |first2=Oluwafemi Jacob |last3=Awoyemi |first3=A. G. |title=Diversity and Abundance of Avian Species in Old Oyo National Park Southwest Nigeria |journal=Merit Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Soil Science |date=December 2016 |volume=4 |issue=11 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312126220 |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Oyeleke |first1=Olaide Omowumi |last2=Odewumi |first2=Oluyinka |last3=Mustapha |first3=R.A. |title=Assessment of management practices for ungulates in old Oyo National Park, Nigeria |journal=Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management |date=August 2015 |volume=8 |issue=5 |page=548 |doi=10.4314/ejesm.v8i5.8 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282452146 |access-date=26 December 2021|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Halidu |first1=Shafiu Kilishi |last2=Adebayo |first2=Olaoluwa Ayodeji |last3=Chikezie |first3=Jude |last4=Ibrahim |first4=Azeez Olalekan |last5=Adedeji |first5=Olushola Emmanuel |title=Ecology of Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus Patas) in Buffer Zone Ranges, Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria |journal=Journal of Bioresource Management |date=23 April 2021 |volume=8 |issue=2 |pages=29–37 |doi=10.35691/JBM.1202.0178 |s2cid=236615677 |url=https://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1285&context=jbm |access-date=26 December 2021|doi-access=free }}</ref>
Kwara is the [[List of Nigerian states by area|ninth largest state in Nigeria]], but the [[List of Nigerian states by population|sixth least populous]], with an estimated population of about 3.2 million as at 2016.<ref>{{cite web |title=Population 2006-2016 |url=https://nigerianstat.gov.ng/elibrary/read/474 |website=[[National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria|National Bureau of Statistics]] |access-date=21 December 2021}}</ref> Geographically, Kwara State is split between the [[West Sudanian savanna]] in the west, and the [[Guinean forest–savanna mosaic]] [[List of ecoregions in Nigeria|ecoregion]] in the rest of the states. Important geographic features of the state include rivers, with the [[Niger River|Niger]] flowing along the northern border into [[Lake Jeba]], before continuing as the border, while the Awun, Asa, Aluko, and [[Oyun]] rivers flow through the interior. In the far [[northwest]] of the State is the [[Borgu Game Reserve|Borgu section]] of the [[Kainji National Park]], a large [[List of national parks of Nigeria|national park]] that contains populations of [[grey heron]], [[kob]], [[hippopotamus]], [[African bush elephant]], [[olive baboon]], and [[roan antelope]], along with some of the last remaining [[West African lion]]s on Earth.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Fingesi |first1=U. I. |last2=Tyowua |first2=B. T. |last3=Fajobi |first3=E. A. |last4=Jamilu |first4=S. M. |title=Species richness and diversity of birds in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria |journal=World News of Natural Sciences |date=18 November 2018 |url=http://www.worldnewsnaturalsciences.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/WNOFNS-22-2019-1-11.pdf |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Ajayi |first1=S.R. |last2=Ejidike |first2=Bernadette |last3=Ogunjemite |first3=Babafemi |last4=Olaniyi |first4=Oluwatobi |last5=Adeola |first5=A.J. |title=Population status of Olive Baboon Papio anubis (LESSON, 1827) in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria |journal=Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife & Environment |date=June 2020 |volume=12 |issue=2 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343510440 |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Animal population grows at Kainji Lake National Park |url=https://guardian.ng/news/animal-population-grows-at-kainji-lake-national-park/ |website=[[The Guardian, Nigeria|The Guardian]] |date=3 March 2017 |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref> In the far southwest, a small part of the [[Old Oyo National Park]] contains [[crowned eagle]], [[martial eagle]], [[African buffalo]], [[oribi]], and [[patas monkey]] populations.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Okosodo |first1=Ehi Francis |last2=Orimaye |first2=Oluwafemi Jacob |last3=Awoyemi |first3=A. G. |title=Diversity and Abundance of Avian Species in Old Oyo National Park Southwest Nigeria |journal=Merit Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Soil Science |date=December 2016 |volume=4 |issue=11 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312126220 |access-date=26 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Oyeleke |first1=Olaide Omowumi |last2=Odewumi |first2=Oluyinka |last3=Mustapha |first3=R.A. |title=Assessment of management practices for ungulates in old Oyo National Park, Nigeria |journal=Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management |date=August 2015 |volume=8 |issue=5 |page=548 |doi=10.4314/ejesm.v8i5.8 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282452146 |access-date=26 December 2021|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Halidu |first1=Shafiu Kilishi |last2=Adebayo |first2=Olaoluwa Ayodeji |last3=Chikezie |first3=Jude |last4=Ibrahim |first4=Azeez Olalekan |last5=Adedeji |first5=Olushola Emmanuel |title=Ecology of Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus Patas) in Buffer Zone Ranges, Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria |journal=Journal of Bioresource Management |date=23 April 2021 |volume=8 |issue=2 |pages=29–37 |doi=10.35691/JBM.1202.0178 |s2cid=236615677 |url=https://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1285&context=jbm |access-date=26 December 2021|doi-access=free }}</ref>


Kwara state has been inhabited for years by various ethnic groups, primarily the majority [[Yoruba people]] that live throughout the state, but there are sizeable minorities of [[Nupe people]] in the northeast, [[Bariba people|Bariba (Baatonu)]] and [[Bissa people|Busa (Bokobaru)]] peoples in the west, and a small [[Fula people|Fulani]] population in [[Ilorin]], moving through the state as nomadic [[Fulani herdsmen|herders]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kwara {{!}} state, Nigeria {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Kwara |access-date=2022-06-28 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref>
Kwara State has been inhabited for years by various ethnic groups, primarily the majority [[Yoruba people]] that live throughout the state, but there are sizeable minorities of [[Nupe people]] in the northeast, [[Bariba people|Bariba (Baatonu)]] and [[Bissa people|Busa (Bokobaru)]] people in the west, and a small [[Fula people|Fulani]] population in [[Ilorin]], moving through the state as nomadic [[Fulani herdsmen|herders]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kwara {{!}} state, Nigeria {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Kwara |access-date=2022-06-28 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref>


In the pre-colonial period, majority of the area that is now Kwara state was part of the [[Oyo Empire]], with part of the western portions in the [[Borgu|Borgu Kingdoms]] peopled by the Bariba, [[Boko language|Boko]] and Bissa people, and [[Nupe Kingdom]] (1531-1835). In the mid 1800s, the [[Fulani jihad]] annexed some part of what is now the state of Kwara and placed the area under the Gwandu sphere of the [[Sokoto Caliphate]]. In the 1890s and 1900s, British expeditions occupied the area and incorporated it into the [[Northern Nigeria Protectorate]]. The [[Northern Nigeria|Northern]] Nigeria later merged into [[British Nigeria]] in 1914, before becoming independent as [[Nigeria]] in 1960. Originally, the modern-day Kwara state was a part of the post-independence [[Northern Region, Nigeria|Northern Region]] until 1967, when the region was split and the area became the [[West Central State]]. In 1976, the state was renamed Kwara state and the name remained until the 1990s, when its southeast was split off to form a part of [[Kogi State|Kogi state]] and its far northwest Borgu division was annexed into the Borgu division of [[Niger State|Niger state]].
In the pre-colonial period, majority of the area that is now Kwara state was part of the [[Oyo Empire]], with part of the western portions in the [[Borgu|Borgu Kingdoms]] peopled by the Bariba, [[Boko language|Boko]] and Bissa people, and [[Nupe Kingdom]] (1531–1835). In the mid-1800s, the [[Fulani jihad]] annexed some part of what is now the state of Kwara and placed the area under the Gwandu sphere of the [[Sokoto Caliphate]]. In the 1890s and 1900s, British expeditions occupied the area and incorporated it into the [[Northern Nigeria Protectorate]]. The [[Northern Nigeria|Northern]] Nigeria later merged into [[British Nigeria]] in 1914, before becoming independent as [[Nigeria]] in 1960. Originally, the modern-day Kwara state was a part of the post-independence [[Northern Region, Nigeria|Northern Region]] until 1967, when the region was split and the area became the [[West Central State]]. In 1976, the state was renamed Kwara state and the name remained until the 1990s, when its southeast was split off to form a part of [[Kogi State|Kogi state]] and its far northwest Borgu division was annexed into the Borgu division of [[Niger State|Niger state]].{{citation needed|date=May 2024}}


Economically, Kwara state is largely based around [[agriculture]], mainly of [[Coffea robusta|coffee]], [[cotton]], [[Peanut|groundnut]], [[Cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[oil palm]], and [[kola nut]] crops. Other key industries are services, especially in the city of [[Ilorin]], and the [[herding|livestock herding]] and [[ranching]] of [[cattle]], [[goats]], and [[sheep]]. Kwara state has the [[List of Nigerian states by Human Development Index#2019|joint-twentieth highest]] [[Human Development Index]] in the country and numerous institutions of tertiary education.<ref>{{cite web |title=Human Development Indices |url=https://globaldatalab.org/shdi/shdi/ |website=Global Data Lab |access-date=15 December 2021}}</ref>
Economically, Kwara state is largely based around [[agriculture]], mainly of [[Coffea robusta|coffee]], [[cotton]], [[Peanut|groundnut]], [[Cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[oil palm]], and [[kola nut]] crops. Other key industries are services, especially in the city of [[Ilorin]], and the [[herding|livestock herding]] and [[ranching]] of [[cattle]], [[goats]], and [[sheep]]. Kwara state has the [[List of Nigerian states by Human Development Index#2019|joint-twentieth highest]] [[Human Development Index]] in the country and numerous institutions of tertiary education.<ref>{{cite web |title=Human Development Indices |url=https://globaldatalab.org/shdi/shdi/ |website=Global Data Lab |access-date=15 December 2021}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
Kwara state was created on 27 May 1967,<ref name="kwasang.org.uk">{{Cite web|title=History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria|url=https://kwasang.org.uk/history-of-kwara-state/|access-date=2021-12-31|language=en-US}}</ref> when the Federal Military Government of General [[Yakubu Gowon]] broke the four regions that then constituted the [[Federation of Nigeria]] into 12 states. At its creation, the state was made up of the former [[Ilorin]] and [[Kabba]] provinces of the then [[Northern Region, Nigeria|Northern Region]] and was initially named the West Central State but later changed to "Kwara", a local name for the [[River Niger]], in the [[Hausa language]].<ref>{{Cite web
Kwara State was created on 27 May 1967,<ref name="kwasang.org.uk">{{Cite web|title=History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria|url=https://kwasang.org.uk/history-of-kwara-state/|access-date=2021-12-31|language=en-US}}</ref> when the Federal Military Government of General [[Yakubu Gowon]] broke the four regions that then constituted the [[Federation of Nigeria]] into 12 states. At its creation, the state was made up of the former [[Ilorin]] and [[Kabba]] provinces of the then [[Northern Region, Nigeria|Northern Region]] and was initially named the West Central State but later changed to "Kwara", a local name for the [[River Niger]], in the [[Hausa language]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=You are being redirected... |url=https://kwarastate.gov.ng/about-the-state/ |access-date=2024-07-05 |website=kwarastate.gov.ng}}</ref>
|title=Kwara State – Local Governments, Facts & History
|url=https://www.propertypro.ng/blog/kwara-state-facts-history/
|date=2020-05-31
|website=PropertyPro
|author=Abiola Adekunle
|access-date=2021-03-08}}</ref>


Kwara state has since 1976 reduced considerably in size as a result of further state creation exercises in Nigeria. On 13 February 1976, the [[Idah]]/[[Dekina]] part of the state was carved out and merged with a part of the then [[Benue/Plateau State|Benue/Plateau state]] to form [[Benue State|Benue state]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria|url=https://kwasang.org.uk/history-of-kwara-state/|access-date=2021-06-03|language=en-US}}</ref>
Kwara state has since 1976 reduced considerably in size as a result of further state creation exercises in Nigeria. On 13 February 1976, the [[Idah]]/[[Dekina]] part of the state was carved out and merged with a part of the then [[Benue/Plateau State|Benue/Plateau state]], to form [[Benue State|Benue state]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria|url=https://kwasang.org.uk/history-of-kwara-state/|access-date=2021-06-03|language=en-US}}</ref>


On 27 August 1991, five [[Local Ggvernment]] areas, namely [[Oyi]], [https://www.behance.net/gallery/18479533/Yagba-VillageKogi-stateNigeria Yagba], [[Okene]], [[Okehi]] and [[Kogi State|Kogi]] were also excised to form part of the new [[Kogi State|Kogi state]], while a sixth, [[Borgu Local Government Area]], was merged with [[Niger State|Niger state]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kwara State of Nigeria :: Nigeria Information & Guide|url=https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/States_Nigeria/Kwara/|access-date=2021-06-03|website=www.nigeriagalleria.com}}</ref> The major populated local governments are [[Ilorin]] and [[Offa, Kwara|Offa]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria|url=https://kwasang.org.uk/history-of-kwara-state/|access-date=2021-06-20|language=en-US}}</ref>
On 27 August 1991, five [[Local Ggvernment]] areas, namely [[Oyi]], [https://www.behance.net/gallery/18479533/Yagba-VillageKogi-stateNigeria Yagba], [[Okene]], [[Okehi]] and [[Kogi State|Kogi]] were also excised to form part of the new [[Kogi State|Kogi state]], while a sixth, [[Borgu Local Government Area]], was merged with [[Niger State|Niger state]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kwara State of Nigeria :: Nigeria Information & Guide|url=https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/States_Nigeria/Kwara/|access-date=2021-06-03|website=www.nigeriagalleria.com}}</ref> The major populated local governments are [[Ilorin]] and [[Offa, Kwara|Offa]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria|url=https://kwasang.org.uk/history-of-kwara-state/|access-date=2021-06-20|language=en-US}}</ref>
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==Population==
==Population==
As of 2006, the [[population]] of Kwarans was 2.37 million, based on the Nigerian [[Demographics of Nigeria|2006 Census]].<ref name="PHC Tables" /> This population size constitutes about 1.69% of the nation's total population having relied upon [[immigration]] for population growth and [[socioeconomic development]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nigeriamasterweb.com/Nigeria06CensusFigs.html|title=Nigeria 2006 Census Figures|work=Nigeria master web|access-date=June 3, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821125730/http://www.nigeriamasterweb.com/Nigeria06CensusFigs.html|archive-date=August 21, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> The principal ethnic groups are Yoruba, Nupe, Fulani, and Baruba.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book|last=Gemma|first=Wilson|title=Kwara: the making of a new state|publisher=Bookcraft|year=2012|pages=12–13}}</ref>
As of 2006, the [[population]] of Kwarans was 2.37 million, based on the Nigerian [[Demographics of Nigeria|2006 Census]].<ref name="PHC Tables" /> This population size constitutes about 1.69% of the nation's total population having relied upon [[immigration]] for population growth and [[socioeconomic development]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nigeriamasterweb.com/Nigeria06CensusFigs.html|title=Nigeria 2006 Census Figures|work=Nigeria master web|access-date=3 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821125730/http://www.nigeriamasterweb.com/Nigeria06CensusFigs.html|archive-date=21 August 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> The principal ethnic groups are Yoruba, Nupe, Fulani, and Baruba.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book|last=Gemma|first=Wilson|title=Kwara: the making of a new state|publisher=Bookcraft|year=2012|pages=12–13}}</ref> The population estimate of Kwara State, as at July 2024, is put at 3,009,755.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-01-09 |title=Kwara State |url=https://www.nipc.gov.ng/nigeria-states/kwara-state/ |access-date=2024-07-05 |website=Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission |language=en-US}}</ref>


Residents of the state are sometimes referred to as Kwarans.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thenationonlineng.net/new/no-plans-to-impose-fresh-taxes-on-kwarans-ahmed/|title=No plans to impose fresh taxes on Kwarans|work=The Nation News|access-date=June 3, 2015}}</ref>
Residents of the state are referred to as Kwarans.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thenationonlineng.net/new/no-plans-to-impose-fresh-taxes-on-kwarans-ahmed/|title=No plans to impose fresh taxes on Kwarans|work=The Nation News|access-date=3 June 2015}}</ref>


==Languages==
==Languages==
Line 173: Line 169:


==Governor of Kwara State==
==Governor of Kwara State==
Like every other state in Nigeria, Kwara State has had a mix of civilian and military Governors. The first Governor of Kwara state was [[David Bamigboye]]. The current governor of Kwara State is Governor [[Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman]], who emerged victorious in the March 9, 2019's governorship election, with the political party APC. AbdulRahman AbdulRazak was sworn in on May 29, 2019, making him the 4th democratic governor of Kwara State and the 20th governor of Kwara State overall.Kayode Alabi is serving as the deputy governor of Kwara state under AbdulRahman's administration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-25 |title=PROFILE: AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria [2019 -] |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/profiles/438474-profile-abdulrahman-abdulrazaq-governor-of-kwara-state-nigeria-2019.html |access-date=2022-03-27 |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigerian States |url=https://www.worldstatesmen.org/Nigeria_federal_states.htm |access-date=2022-03-27 |website=www.worldstatesmen.org}}</ref>
Like every other state in Nigeria, Kwara State has had a mix of civilian and military Governors. The first Governor of Kwara state was [[David Bamigboye]]. The current governor of Kwara State is Governor [[Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman]], who emerged victorious in the [[2019 Nigerian gubernatorial elections|9 March 2019 governorship election]], under the [[All Progressives Congress|APC]]. Abdulrahman Abdulrazak was sworn in on 29 May 2019, making him the 4th democratic governor of Kwara State and the 20th governor of Kwara State overall. Kayode Alabi is the deputy governor of Kwara state under AbdulRahman's administration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-25 |title=Profile: AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria [2019 -] |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/profiles/438474-profile-abdulrahman-abdulrazaq-governor-of-kwara-state-nigeria-2019.html |access-date=2022-03-27 |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigerian States |url=https://www.worldstatesmen.org/Nigeria_federal_states.htm |access-date=2022-03-27 |website=www.worldstatesmen.org}}</ref> On March 19, 2023, Abdulrazak won re-electon<ref>{{Cite web |title=AbdulRazaq wins re-election as Kwara gov |url=https://punchng.com/abdulrazaq-wins-re-election-as-kwara-gov/ |access-date=July 5, 2024 |website=Punch}}</ref> and will remain governor until 2027 when he will be constitutionally ineligible to re-contest for a third term in office.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-10-03 |title=Nigeria presidency says Buhari will not seek unconstitutional 3rd term |url=https://www.africanews.com/2019/10/03/nigeria-presidency-says-buhari-will-not-seek-unconstitutional-3rd-term/ |access-date=2024-07-05 |website=Africanews |language=en}}</ref>


== Education ==
== Education ==
Line 183: Line 179:


* General Hospital Illorin<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ukoh |first=Emmanuel |date=2022-12-15 |title=West African Physicians Commend Ilorin General Hospital On Public Safety |url=https://von.gov.ng/west-african-physicians-commend-ilorin-general-hospital-on-public-safety/ |access-date=2023-01-05 |website=Voice of Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref>
* General Hospital Illorin<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ukoh |first=Emmanuel |date=2022-12-15 |title=West African Physicians Commend Ilorin General Hospital On Public Safety |url=https://von.gov.ng/west-african-physicians-commend-ilorin-general-hospital-on-public-safety/ |access-date=2023-01-05 |website=Voice of Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref>
* University of Illorin Teaching Hospital<ref>{{Cite web |last=Olesin |first=Abdullahi |date=2022-12-10 |title=Hospital Tasks Nurses On ICT, Mulls Digital Services |url=https://leadership.ng/hospital-tasks-nurses-on-ict-mulls-digital-services/ |access-date=2023-01-05 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Reporter |first=T. S. J. |date=2022-12-27 |title=One of separated conjoined twins at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital dies |url=https://thestreetjournal.org/one-of-separated-conjoined-twins-at-university-of-ilorin-teaching-hospital-dies/ |access-date=2023-01-05 |website=The Street Journal |language=en-US}}</ref>
* University of Illorin Teaching Hospital<ref>{{Cite web |last=Olesin |first=Abdullahi |date=2022-12-10 |title=Hospital Tasks Nurses On ICT, Mulls Digital Services |url=https://leadership.ng/hospital-tasks-nurses-on-ict-mulls-digital-services/ |access-date=2023-01-05 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-27 |title=One of separated conjoined twins at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital dies |url=https://thestreetjournal.org/one-of-separated-conjoined-twins-at-university-of-ilorin-teaching-hospital-dies/ |access-date=2023-01-05 |website=The Street Journal |language=en-US}}</ref>
* Life Line Hospital
* Life Line Hospital
* Lifefount Hospital
* Lifefount Hospital
Line 196: Line 192:


== Tourism ==
== Tourism ==
[[Image:Kwarastatedrummers.jpg|thumb|right|Drummers in Ijomu Oro village, Kwara State.]]
[[File:Kwarastatedrummers.jpg|thumb|right|Drummers in Ijomu Oro village, Kwara State.]]
Important [[tourist]] attractions in Kwara state include [[Esie Museum]], [[Owu waterfalls]], one of the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in West Africa.<ref name=":2" /> Imoleboja Rock Shelter, Ogunjokoro, [[Kainji National Park|Kainji Lake National Parks]], now in [[Niger State|Niger state]] , and Agbonna Hill—Awon Mass Wedding in Shao. There is also Sobi Hill amongst others, which is the largest landform in Ilorin, the state capital.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sule |first=Mariam |title=Off the beaten path: Western Nigeria's Sobi hill offers striking view, spiritual experience |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2022/03/31/nigeria-travel-sobi-hill-pray/7069110001/ |access-date=2022-06-28 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US}}</ref> A huge [[natural reserve]] also divides the state into East and West. Ero Omola waterfall is also a tourist attraction <ref>{{Cite web|last=Great|first=Dennis|date=2021-08-06|title=ERO-OMOLA WATERFALL|url=https://www.bigtimeafrica.com.ng/ero-omola-waterfall/|access-date=2022-02-25|website=BTATnT - Big Time Africa Travels & Tours Company|language=en-US}}</ref>
Important [[tourist]] attractions in Kwara state include [[Esie Museum]], [[Owu waterfalls]], one of the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in West Africa.<ref name=":2" /> Imoleboja Rock Shelter, Ogunjokoro, [[Kainji National Park|Kainji Lake National Parks]], now in [[Niger State|Niger state]] , and Agbonna Hill—Awon Mass Wedding in Shao. There is also Sobi Hill amongst others, which is the largest landform in Ilorin, the state capital.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sule |first=Mariam |title=Off the beaten path: Western Nigeria's Sobi hill offers striking view, spiritual experience |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2022/03/31/nigeria-travel-sobi-hill-pray/7069110001/ |access-date=2022-06-28 |website=USA Today |language=en-US}}</ref> A huge [[natural reserve]] also divides the state into East and West. Ero Omola waterfall is also a tourist attraction <ref>{{Cite web|last=Great|first=Dennis|date=2021-08-06|title=Ero-Omola Waterfall|url=https://www.bigtimeafrica.com.ng/ero-omola-waterfall/|access-date=2022-02-25|website=BTATnT - Big Time Africa Travels & Tours Company|language=en-US}}</ref>


== Climate ==
== Climate ==
Line 211: Line 207:
|-
|-
|January
|January
|36°c
|36&nbsp;°C
|21°c
|21&nbsp;°C
|1
|1
|-
|-
|February
|February
|38°c
|38&nbsp;°C
|23°c
|23&nbsp;°C
|1
|1
|-
|-
|March
|March
|38°c
|38&nbsp;°C
|24°c
|24&nbsp;°C
|4
|4
|-
|-
|April
|April
|36°c
|36&nbsp;°C
|25°c
|25&nbsp;°C
|9
|9
|-
|-
|May
|May
|34°c
|34&nbsp;°C
|24°c
|24&nbsp;°C
|15
|15
|-
|-
|June
|June
|31°c
|31&nbsp;°C
|23°c
|23&nbsp;°C
|17
|17
|-
|-
|July
|July
|29°c
|29&nbsp;°C
|22°c
|22&nbsp;°C
|18
|18
|-
|-
|August
|August
|28°c
|28&nbsp;°C
|22°c
|22&nbsp;°C
|18
|18
|-
|-
|September
|September
|29°c
|29&nbsp;°C
|22°c
|22&nbsp;°C
|20
|20
|-
|-
|October
|October
|31°c
|31&nbsp;°C
|23°c
|23&nbsp;°C
|15
|15
|-
|-
|November
|November
|35°c
|35&nbsp;°C
|23°c
|23&nbsp;°C
|1
|1
|-
|-
|December
|December
|36°c
|36&nbsp;°C
|21°c
|21&nbsp;°C
|0
|0
|}
|}
Line 273: Line 269:
== Incidents ==
== Incidents ==
{{See also|Kwara boat disaster}}
{{See also|Kwara boat disaster}}
According to reports, a boat capsized and broke in two on June 12, 2023, in the Niger River close to Pategi, in Kwara State, Nigeria. The guests on the boat were originally arriving on motorcycles, but the intense rain left them stranded. It was confirmed that at least 108 people have died and many are absent.<ref name=":4" />
According to reports, a boat capsized and broke in two on 12 June 2023, in the Niger River close to Pategi, in Kwara State, Nigeria. The guests on the boat were originally arriving on motorcycles, but the intense rain left them stranded. It was confirmed that at least 108 people have died and many are absent.<ref name=":4" />


On October 25, 2023, a tree fall killed two people and injured at least five.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Omidiji |first=Rachael |date=2023-10-23 |title=Kwara: Fallen tree kills woman, injures 10 others |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/kwara-fallen-tree-kills-woman-injures-10-others/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Tribune Online |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Olesin |first=Abdullahi |date=2023-10-23 |title=2 Die As Tree Falls On Commuters In Kwara |url=https://leadership.ng/2-die-as-tree-falls-on-commuters-in-kwara/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |language=en-US}}</ref>
On 25 October 2023, a tree fall killed two people and injured at least five.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Omidiji |first=Rachael |date=2023-10-23 |title=Kwara: Fallen tree kills woman, injures 10 others |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/kwara-fallen-tree-kills-woman-injures-10-others/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Tribune Online |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Olesin |first=Abdullahi |date=2023-10-23 |title=2 Die As Tree Falls On Commuters In Kwara |url=https://leadership.ng/2-die-as-tree-falls-on-commuters-in-kwara/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |language=en-US}}</ref>
On 2 February 2024, Ejire Adeyemi Toun, the traditional ruler was assassinated in his palace, and his wife was kidnapped.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.chronicle.ng/news/police-confirm-killing-of-kwara/ | title=Police confirm killing of Kwara monarch | date=2 February 2024 }}</ref>


== Transport ==
== Transport ==
Line 282: Line 280:


== Economy ==
== Economy ==
Agriculture is the main source of the state's economy and the principal cash crops are :<ref>{{Cite web|title=Cash Crops - an overview {{!}} ScienceDirect Topics|url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/cash-crops|access-date=2022-02-25|website=www.sciencedirect.com}}</ref> [[cotton]], [[cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[coffee]], [[kola nut]], [[tobacco]], [[sesame]] and palm produce. Kwara state is home to [[Shonga Farms]]''',''' a product of the Back-to-Farm project of one of the past administrators of the state, Dr. [[Bukola Saraki|Abubakar Bukola Saraki]]. Shonga Farms is made up of 13 commercial farmers. [[Natural resource|Mineral resources]] in the state are Petroleum, [[Gold]], [[limestone]], [[marble]], [[feldspar]], [[clay]], [[kaolin]], [[quartz]] and [[Granite|granite rocks]],
Agriculture is the main source of the state's economy and the principal cash crops are :<ref>{{Cite web|title=Cash Crops - an overview {{!}} ScienceDirect Topics|url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/cash-crops|access-date=2022-02-25|website=www.sciencedirect.com}}</ref> [[cotton]], [[cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[coffee]], [[kola nut]], [[tobacco]], [[sesame]] and palm produce. Kwara state is home to [[Shonga Farms]], a product of the Back-to-Farm project of one of the past administrators of the state, Dr. [[Bukola Saraki|Abubakar Bukola Saraki]]. Shonga Farms is made up of 13 commercial farmers. [[Natural resource|Mineral resources]] in the state are Petroleum, [[Gold]], [[limestone]], [[marble]], [[feldspar]], [[clay]], [[kaolin]], [[quartz]] and [[Granite|granite rocks]],
and laterite found majorly in omuaran.
and laterite found majorly in omuaran.
<ref>{{Cite web|last=Atulegwu|first=David|date=2020-09-08|title=List of Natural Mineral Resources Found in Kwara State|url=https://nigerianinfopedia.com.ng/natural-mineral-resources-found-in-kwara-state/|access-date=2020-09-22|website=Nigerian Infopedia|language=en-US}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web|last=Atulegwu|first=David|date=2020-09-08|title=List of Natural Mineral Resources Found in Kwara State|url=https://nigerianinfopedia.com.ng/natural-mineral-resources-found-in-kwara-state/|access-date=2020-09-22|website=Nigerian Infopedia|language=en-US}}</ref>
Line 290: Line 288:
*'''Hygiene and Sanitation'''
*'''Hygiene and Sanitation'''


The government of Nigeria is increasingly aware of problems emanating from poor environmental sanitation, and Kwara state is working on improving its environment and sanitation.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Adedibu|first=Afolabi A.|date=1986-03-01|title=Solid waste management and a new environmental edict: a case study from Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria|url=https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02240232|journal=Environmentalist|language=en|volume=6|issue=1|pages=63–68|doi=10.1007/BF02240232|s2cid=84938959|issn=1573-2991}}</ref> On September 22, 2020, the Kwara state governor officially commenced the 'Clean Kwara' Campaign to end open defecation and promote good [[hygiene]] in the state.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Olesin|first=Abdullahi|date=2020-09-22|title=Nigeria: Abdulrazaq Launches Clean Kwara Campaign, to End Open Defecation|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202009220758.html|access-date=2020-09-22|website=allAfrica.com|language=en}}</ref> The state government is working to fix all the roads and waterways to ensure free water flow,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Environmental Sanitation: Govt assures of a clean Kwara, to supply waste receptacle containers – RoyalFM 95.1MHz, Ilorin|url=http://royalfm.net/environmental-sanitation-govt-assures-of-a-clean-kwara-to-supply-waste-receptacle-containers/|access-date=2020-09-22|language=en-US}}</ref> putting in efforts to ensure [[Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Monitoring Program|water sanitation]],<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=Alhaji|date=2019-11-19|title=Nigeria inaugurates water plants in Kwara State|url=https://constructionreviewonline.com/2019/11/nigeria-inaugurates-water-plants-in-kwara-state/|access-date=2020-09-22|website=Construction Review Online|language=en-US}}</ref> building [[toilets]] , and making clean water accessible.<ref name=":1" /> This is also to promote [[Sustainable Development Goals]] 3 & 6 (general access to safe and affordable drinking water and access to adequate and equitable sanitation, hygiene for all, and end [[open defecation]] by 2030)<ref name=":0" />
The government of Nigeria is increasingly aware of problems emanating from poor environmental sanitation, and Kwara state is working on improving its environment and sanitation.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Adedibu|first=Afolabi A.|date=1986-03-01|title=Solid waste management and a new environmental edict: a case study from Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria|url=https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02240232|journal=Environmentalist|language=en|volume=6|issue=1|pages=63–68|doi=10.1007/BF02240232|bibcode=1986ThEnv...6...63A |s2cid=84938959|issn=1573-2991}}</ref> On 22 September 2020, the Kwara state governor officially commenced the 'Clean Kwara' Campaign to end open defecation and promote good [[hygiene]] in the state.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Olesin|first=Abdullahi|date=2020-09-22|title=Nigeria: Abdulrazaq Launches Clean Kwara Campaign, to End Open Defecation|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202009220758.html|access-date=2020-09-22|website=allAfrica.com|language=en}}</ref> The state government is working to fix all the roads and waterways to ensure free water flow,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Environmental Sanitation: Govt assures of a clean Kwara, to supply waste receptacle containers – RoyalFM 95.1MHz, Ilorin|url=http://royalfm.net/environmental-sanitation-govt-assures-of-a-clean-kwara-to-supply-waste-receptacle-containers/|access-date=2020-09-22|language=en-US}}</ref> putting in efforts to ensure [[Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Monitoring Program|water sanitation]],<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=Alhaji|date=2019-11-19|title=Nigeria inaugurates water plants in Kwara State|url=https://constructionreviewonline.com/2019/11/nigeria-inaugurates-water-plants-in-kwara-state/|access-date=2020-09-22|website=Construction Review Online|language=en-US}}</ref> building [[toilets]] , and making clean water accessible.<ref name=":1" /> This is also to promote [[Sustainable Development Goals]] 3 & 6 (general access to safe and affordable drinking water and access to adequate and equitable sanitation, hygiene for all, and end [[open defecation]] by 2030)<ref name=":0" />


== Sports ==
== Sports ==
Line 314: Line 312:
*[[Sarah Alade]], former CBN governor
*[[Sarah Alade]], former CBN governor
*[[Lola Ashiru]], architect and politician
*[[Lola Ashiru]], architect and politician
*[[Adamu Atta]], politician
*[[Kunle Afolayan]], actor, film director and producer
*[[Kunle Afolayan]], actor, film director and producer
*[[Ayeloyun]], musician
*[[Ayeloyun]], musician

Latest revision as of 01:14, 6 July 2024

"Kwara" redirects here. For other uses, see Kwara (disambiguation).

Kwara
State
Flag of Kwara
Flag
Seal of Kwara State
Seal
Nicknames: 
State of Harmony
Location of the State of Kwara in Nigeria
Location of the State of Kwara in Nigeria
Coordinates: 8°30′N 5°00′E / 8.500°N 5.000°E / 8.500; 5.000
Country Nigeria
Geopolitical ZoneNorth Central
Date created27 May 1967
CapitalIlorin
Number of LGAs16
Government
 • BodyGovernment of Kwara State
 • Governor
(List)		Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman (APC)
 • Deputy GovernorKayode Alabi
 • LegislatureKwara State House of Assembly
 • SenatorsC: Saliu Mustapha (APC)
N: Suleiman Sadiq Umar (APC)
S: Lola Ashiru (APC)
 • RepresentativesList
Area
 • Total36,825 km2 (14,218 sq mi)
 • Rank9th of 36
Population
 (2006 census)
 • Total2,365,353[1]
 • Estimate 
(2022)
3,551,000[2]
 • Rank30th of 36
GDP
 • Year2021
 • Total$8.91 billion[3]
35th of 36
 • Per capita$2,401[3]
26th of 36
Time zoneUTC+01 (WAT)
postal code
240001
ISO 3166 codeNG-KW
HDI (2018)0.571[4]
medium · 20th of 37
Website"Kwara State Government"

Kwara State (Yoruba: Ìpínlẹ̀ Kwárà) is a state in Western Nigeria, bordered to the east by Kogi State, to the north by Niger State, and to the south by Ekiti, Osun, and Oyo states, while its western border makes up part of the international border with Benin Republic.[5][6] Its capital is the city of Ilorin and the state has 16 local government areas.

Kwara is the ninth largest state in Nigeria, but the sixth least populous, with an estimated population of about 3.2 million as at 2016.[7] Geographically, Kwara State is split between the West Sudanian savanna in the west, and the Guinean forest–savanna mosaic ecoregion in the rest of the states. Important geographic features of the state include rivers, with the Niger flowing along the northern border into Lake Jeba, before continuing as the border, while the Awun, Asa, Aluko, and Oyun rivers flow through the interior. In the far northwest of the State is the Borgu section of the Kainji National Park, a large national park that contains populations of grey heron, kob, hippopotamus, African bush elephant, olive baboon, and roan antelope, along with some of the last remaining West African lions on Earth.[8][9][10] In the far southwest, a small part of the Old Oyo National Park contains crowned eagle, martial eagle, African buffalo, oribi, and patas monkey populations.[11][12][13]

Kwara State has been inhabited for years by various ethnic groups, primarily the majority Yoruba people that live throughout the state, but there are sizeable minorities of Nupe people in the northeast, Bariba (Baatonu) and Busa (Bokobaru) people in the west, and a small Fulani population in Ilorin, moving through the state as nomadic herders.[14]

In the pre-colonial period, majority of the area that is now Kwara state was part of the Oyo Empire, with part of the western portions in the Borgu Kingdoms peopled by the Bariba, Boko and Bissa people, and Nupe Kingdom (1531–1835). In the mid-1800s, the Fulani jihad annexed some part of what is now the state of Kwara and placed the area under the Gwandu sphere of the Sokoto Caliphate. In the 1890s and 1900s, British expeditions occupied the area and incorporated it into the Northern Nigeria Protectorate. The Northern Nigeria later merged into British Nigeria in 1914, before becoming independent as Nigeria in 1960. Originally, the modern-day Kwara state was a part of the post-independence Northern Region until 1967, when the region was split and the area became the West Central State. In 1976, the state was renamed Kwara state and the name remained until the 1990s, when its southeast was split off to form a part of Kogi state and its far northwest Borgu division was annexed into the Borgu division of Niger state.[citation needed]

Economically, Kwara state is largely based around agriculture, mainly of coffee, cotton, groundnut, cocoa, oil palm, and kola nut crops. Other key industries are services, especially in the city of Ilorin, and the livestock herding and ranching of cattle, goats, and sheep. Kwara state has the joint-twentieth highest Human Development Index in the country and numerous institutions of tertiary education.[15]

History[edit]

Kwara State was created on 27 May 1967,[16] when the Federal Military Government of General Yakubu Gowon broke the four regions that then constituted the Federation of Nigeria into 12 states. At its creation, the state was made up of the former Ilorin and Kabba provinces of the then Northern Region and was initially named the West Central State but later changed to "Kwara", a local name for the River Niger, in the Hausa language.[17]

Kwara state has since 1976 reduced considerably in size as a result of further state creation exercises in Nigeria. On 13 February 1976, the Idah/Dekina part of the state was carved out and merged with a part of the then Benue/Plateau state, to form Benue state.[18]

On 27 August 1991, five Local Ggvernment areas, namely Oyi, Yagba, Okene, Okehi and Kogi were also excised to form part of the new Kogi state, while a sixth, Borgu Local Government Area, was merged with Niger state.[19] The major populated local governments are Ilorin and Offa.[20]

Kwara state has numerous mineral resources such as tourmaline, tantalite, and many mineral deposits in the northern part. Cocoa and Kolanut in the Southern parts Oke - Ero, Ekiti and Isin LGA.[21]

Population[edit]

As of 2006, the population of Kwarans was 2.37 million, based on the Nigerian 2006 Census.[1] This population size constitutes about 1.69% of the nation's total population having relied upon immigration for population growth and socioeconomic development.[22] The principal ethnic groups are Yoruba, Nupe, Fulani, and Baruba.[23] The population estimate of Kwara State, as at July 2024, is put at 3,009,755.[24]

Residents of the state are referred to as Kwarans.[25]

Languages[edit]

Languages of Kwara State listed by LGA:[26][16]

LGA Languages
Asa Yoruba
Baruten Baatonum
Edu Nupe
Ekiti Yoruba
Ifelodun Yoruba
Ilorin East Yoruba
Ilorin South Yoruba
Ilorin West Yoruba
Isin Yoruba
Irepodun Yoruba
Kaiama Bokobaru
Moro Yoruba
Offa Yoruba
Oke Ero Yoruba
Oyun Yoruba
Pategi Nupe

Other languages spoken in Kwara State include Busa, Boko, and Sorko.

Local Government Areas[edit]

See also: List of villages in Kwara State

Kwara State consists of sixteen Local Government Areas.[27] They are:

Governor of Kwara State[edit]

Like every other state in Nigeria, Kwara State has had a mix of civilian and military Governors. The first Governor of Kwara state was David Bamigboye. The current governor of Kwara State is Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman, who emerged victorious in the 9 March 2019 governorship election, under the APC. Abdulrahman Abdulrazak was sworn in on 29 May 2019, making him the 4th democratic governor of Kwara State and the 20th governor of Kwara State overall. Kayode Alabi is the deputy governor of Kwara state under AbdulRahman's administration.[28][29] On March 19, 2023, Abdulrazak won re-electon[30] and will remain governor until 2027 when he will be constitutionally ineligible to re-contest for a third term in office.[31]

Education[edit]

Kwara State University, Malete

Kwara State has a federal university, the University of Ilorin, a state university, Kwara State University , and seven other privately owned Universities: Al-Hikmah University, Landmark University, Summit University, Offa[32] Crown Hill University,[33] Thomas Adewumi University,[34] Ahman Pategi University[35] and University of Offa.[36][37] Kwara state also has five approved polytechnics; a federal polytechnic, Federal Polytechnic Offa, a state-owned polytechnic, Kwara State Polytechnic , and three privately owned: The Polytechnic Igbo Owu, Lens Polytechnic, and Graceland Polytechnic.[38] Of the fifteen Colleges of Education in Kwara state, eleven are owned by private establishments: College of Education Ilemona, Muhyideen College of Education, Kinsey College of Education, Ilorin, Kwara State, Moje College of Education, Erin-Ile, Imam Hamzat College of Education, ECWA College of Education, College of Education Offa, Nana Aisha College of Education, Adesina College of Education and Pan African College of Education. Four colleges of education in Kwara state are funded by the star government: Kwara State College of Education Ilorin, College of Education Oro, Kwara State College of Education (Technical) Lafiagi, and one federal government's institution offering NCE, the Nigeria Army School of Education.[39] There is also a Navy school, Nigerian Navy School of Health Science, Irra Road, Offa, and an aviation college, International Aviation College, Ilorin.[40]

Healthcare[edit]

Kwara State has many hospitals and medical health cares; these include:[41]

  • General Hospital Illorin[42]
  • University of Illorin Teaching Hospital[43][44]
  • Life Line Hospital
  • Lifefount Hospital
  • Balm Hospital
  • Sadiku Hospital
  • kwara State Civil Service Hospital
  • Sobi Specialist Hospital
  • Anchormed Hospital
  • Mimtaz Hospital
  • Asa Dam Hospital
Further information: Every Child Counts

Tourism[edit]

Drummers in Ijomu Oro village, Kwara State.

Important tourist attractions in Kwara state include Esie Museum, Owu waterfalls, one of the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in West Africa.[23] Imoleboja Rock Shelter, Ogunjokoro, Kainji Lake National Parks, now in Niger state , and Agbonna Hill—Awon Mass Wedding in Shao. There is also Sobi Hill amongst others, which is the largest landform in Ilorin, the state capital.[45] A huge natural reserve also divides the state into East and West. Ero Omola waterfall is also a tourist attraction [46]

Climate[edit]

Located at an elevation of 286.86 meters (941.14 feet) above sea level, Kwara has a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate (Classification: Aw). The city's yearly temperature is 29.54 °C (85.17 °F) and it is 0.08% higher than Nigeria's averages. Kwara typically receives about 101.45 millimeters (3.99 inches) of precipitation and has 148.38 rainy days (40.65% of the time) annually.[47] It is located at 4.3874051 longitude and 8.9668961 latitude.[47]

The table below has data for the whole year as an average taken from last 12+ years of historical data for Ilorin.[48]

Month Day Night Rain Days
January 36 °C 21 °C 1
February 38 °C 23 °C 1
March 38 °C 24 °C 4
April 36 °C 25 °C 9
May 34 °C 24 °C 15
June 31 °C 23 °C 17
July 29 °C 22 °C 18
August 28 °C 22 °C 18
September 29 °C 22 °C 20
October 31 °C 23 °C 15
November 35 °C 23 °C 1
December 36 °C 21 °C 0

Incidents[edit]

See also: Kwara boat disaster

According to reports, a boat capsized and broke in two on 12 June 2023, in the Niger River close to Pategi, in Kwara State, Nigeria. The guests on the boat were originally arriving on motorcycles, but the intense rain left them stranded. It was confirmed that at least 108 people have died and many are absent.[5]

On 25 October 2023, a tree fall killed two people and injured at least five.[49][50]

On 2 February 2024, Ejire Adeyemi Toun, the traditional ruler was assassinated in his palace, and his wife was kidnapped.[51]

Transport[edit]

Ilorin Train Station in Kwara
Ilorin Train Station in Kwara

The Nigerian Railway Corporation extends services from Lagos through the state to the northern part of the country. Ilorin Airport is a major center for both domestic and international flights and has now been built up into a hub for transportation of cargoes.[52]

Economy[edit]

Agriculture is the main source of the state's economy and the principal cash crops are :[53] cotton, cocoa, coffee, kola nut, tobacco, sesame and palm produce. Kwara state is home to Shonga Farms, a product of the Back-to-Farm project of one of the past administrators of the state, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. Shonga Farms is made up of 13 commercial farmers. Mineral resources in the state are Petroleum, Gold, limestone, marble, feldspar, clay, kaolin, quartz and granite rocks, and laterite found majorly in omuaran. [54]

Infrastructure[edit]

  • Hygiene and Sanitation

The government of Nigeria is increasingly aware of problems emanating from poor environmental sanitation, and Kwara state is working on improving its environment and sanitation.[55] On 22 September 2020, the Kwara state governor officially commenced the 'Clean Kwara' Campaign to end open defecation and promote good hygiene in the state.[56] The state government is working to fix all the roads and waterways to ensure free water flow,[57] putting in efforts to ensure water sanitation,[58] building toilets , and making clean water accessible.[58] This is also to promote Sustainable Development Goals 3 & 6 (general access to safe and affordable drinking water and access to adequate and equitable sanitation, hygiene for all, and end open defecation by 2030)[56]

Sports[edit]

Sporting activities are managed by the State Sports Council. The importance attached to sports led to the construction of a stadium, named—Kwara State Stadium Complex. The facilities available at the stadium complex are mainbowl, indoor sports hall, hostel, recreational press center as well as an Olympic size swimming pool. The state is actively represented both in football and basketball. The state is the home to the Kwara United Football Club, ABS FC and Kwara Falcons Basketball Club.

Notable people[edit]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b "2006 PHC Priority Tables – National Population Commission". population.gov.ng. Archived from the original on 10 October 2017. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
  2. ^ "Kwara State: Subdivision". www.citypopulation.de. Retrieved 5 February 2024.
  3. ^ a b Okeowo, Gabriel; Fatoba, Iyanuoluwa, eds. (13 October 2022). "State of States 2022 Edition" (PDF). Budgit.org. BudgIT. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  4. ^ "Sub-national HDI - Area Database - Global Data Lab". hdi.globaldatalab.org. Retrieved 13 September 2018.
  5. ^ a b Onyeakagbu, Adaobi. "See how all the 36 Nigerian states got their names". Pulse.ng. Retrieved 25 December 2021.
  6. ^ "This is how the 36 states were created". Pulse.ng. 24 October 2017. Retrieved 22 December 2021.
  7. ^ "Population 2006-2016". National Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 21 December 2021.
  8. ^ Fingesi, U. I.; Tyowua, B. T.; Fajobi, E. A.; Jamilu, S. M. (18 November 2018). "Species richness and diversity of birds in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria" (PDF). World News of Natural Sciences. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  9. ^ Ajayi, S.R.; Ejidike, Bernadette; Ogunjemite, Babafemi; Olaniyi, Oluwatobi; Adeola, A.J. (June 2020). "Population status of Olive Baboon Papio anubis (LESSON, 1827) in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria". Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife & Environment. 12 (2). Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  10. ^ "Animal population grows at Kainji Lake National Park". The Guardian. 3 March 2017. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  11. ^ Okosodo, Ehi Francis; Orimaye, Oluwafemi Jacob; Awoyemi, A. G. (December 2016). "Diversity and Abundance of Avian Species in Old Oyo National Park Southwest Nigeria". Merit Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Soil Science. 4 (11). Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  12. ^ Oyeleke, Olaide Omowumi; Odewumi, Oluyinka; Mustapha, R.A. (August 2015). "Assessment of management practices for ungulates in old Oyo National Park, Nigeria". Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management. 8 (5): 548. doi:10.4314/ejesm.v8i5.8. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  13. ^ Halidu, Shafiu Kilishi; Adebayo, Olaoluwa Ayodeji; Chikezie, Jude; Ibrahim, Azeez Olalekan; Adedeji, Olushola Emmanuel (23 April 2021). "Ecology of Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus Patas) in Buffer Zone Ranges, Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria". Journal of Bioresource Management. 8 (2): 29–37. doi:10.35691/JBM.1202.0178. S2CID 236615677. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  14. ^ "Kwara | state, Nigeria | Britannica". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 28 June 2022.
  15. ^ "Human Development Indices". Global Data Lab. Retrieved 15 December 2021.
  16. ^ a b "History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria". Retrieved 31 December 2021.
  17. ^ "You are being redirected..." kwarastate.gov.ng. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
  18. ^ "History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria". Retrieved 3 June 2021.
  19. ^ "Kwara State of Nigeria :: Nigeria Information & Guide". www.nigeriagalleria.com. Retrieved 3 June 2021.
  20. ^ "History of Kwara State – Kwara State Association of Nigeria". Retrieved 20 June 2021.
  21. ^ "Kwara State". Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission. 9 January 2019. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  22. ^ "Nigeria 2006 Census Figures". Nigeria master web. Archived from the original on 21 August 2014. Retrieved 3 June 2015.
  23. ^ a b Gemma, Wilson (2012). Kwara: the making of a new state. Bookcraft. pp. 12–13.
  24. ^ "Kwara State". Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission. 9 January 2019. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
  25. ^ "No plans to impose fresh taxes on Kwarans". The Nation News. Retrieved 3 June 2015.
  26. ^ "Nigeria". Ethnologue (22 ed.). Retrieved 10 January 2020.
  27. ^ Omipidan, Teslim (16 October 2018). "List Of Local Government Areas In Kwara State And Their Headquarters". OldNaija. Retrieved 20 June 2021.
  28. ^ "Profile: AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria [2019 -]". 25 January 2021. Retrieved 27 March 2022.
  29. ^ "Nigerian States". www.worldstatesmen.org. Retrieved 27 March 2022.
  30. ^ "AbdulRazaq wins re-election as Kwara gov". Punch. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
  31. ^ "Nigeria presidency says Buhari will not seek unconstitutional 3rd term". Africanews. 3 October 2019. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
  32. ^ "Summit University, Offa". summituniversity.edu.ng. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
  33. ^ "Crown-Hill University Ilorin || Home". www.crownhilluniversity.edu.ng. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
  34. ^ "Home - Thomas Adewumi University". Retrieved 16 June 2021.
  35. ^ "Home". Ahman Pategi University. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
  36. ^ "How many Universities are in Kwara State? – Kwara News". The Informant247 News. 10 April 2021. Retrieved 15 April 2021.
  37. ^ "Exclusive: How Kwara North lost KWASU VC slot". The Informant247 News. 3 April 2020. Retrieved 17 January 2021.
  38. ^ "How many Polytechnics are in Kwara State? – Kwara News". The Informant247 News. 13 April 2021. Retrieved 15 April 2021.
  39. ^ "List of Colleges of Education in Kwara State – Kwara News". The Informant247 News. 14 April 2021. Retrieved 15 April 2021.
  40. ^ "Welcome to International Aviation College, Ilorin". aviation.africhoice.website.
  41. ^ "Hospital Locations". Kwara State Hospital Management Board. Retrieved 12 June 2023.
  42. ^ Ukoh, Emmanuel (15 December 2022). "West African Physicians Commend Ilorin General Hospital On Public Safety". Voice of Nigeria. Retrieved 5 January 2023.
  43. ^ Olesin, Abdullahi (10 December 2022). "Hospital Tasks Nurses On ICT, Mulls Digital Services". Retrieved 5 January 2023.
  44. ^ "One of separated conjoined twins at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital dies". The Street Journal. 27 December 2022. Retrieved 5 January 2023.
  45. ^ Sule, Mariam. "Off the beaten path: Western Nigeria's Sobi hill offers striking view, spiritual experience". USA Today. Retrieved 28 June 2022.
  46. ^ Great, Dennis (6 August 2021). "Ero-Omola Waterfall". BTATnT - Big Time Africa Travels & Tours Company. Retrieved 25 February 2022.
  47. ^ a b "Kwara, NG Climate Zone, Monthly Weather Averages and Historical Data". tcktcktck.org. Retrieved 24 July 2023.
  48. ^ "Ilorin Annual Weather Averages". WorldWeatherOnline.com. Retrieved 24 July 2023.
  49. ^ Omidiji, Rachael (23 October 2023). "Kwara: Fallen tree kills woman, injures 10 others". Tribune Online. Retrieved 29 October 2023.
  50. ^ Olesin, Abdullahi (23 October 2023). "2 Die As Tree Falls On Commuters In Kwara". Retrieved 29 October 2023.
  51. ^ "Police confirm killing of Kwara monarch". 2 February 2024.
  52. ^ "13 Airports Now Cargo Terminals - P.M. News". Retrieved 29 June 2022.
  53. ^ "Cash Crops - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics". www.sciencedirect.com. Retrieved 25 February 2022.
  54. ^ Atulegwu, David (8 September 2020). "List of Natural Mineral Resources Found in Kwara State". Nigerian Infopedia. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
  55. ^ Adedibu, Afolabi A. (1 March 1986). "Solid waste management and a new environmental edict: a case study from Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria". Environmentalist. 6 (1): 63–68. Bibcode:1986ThEnv...6...63A. doi:10.1007/BF02240232. ISSN 1573-2991. S2CID 84938959.
  56. ^ a b Olesin, Abdullahi (22 September 2020). "Nigeria: Abdulrazaq Launches Clean Kwara Campaign, to End Open Defecation". allAfrica.com. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
  57. ^ "Environmental Sanitation: Govt assures of a clean Kwara, to supply waste receptacle containers – RoyalFM 95.1MHz, Ilorin". Retrieved 22 September 2020.
  58. ^ a b Alhaji (19 November 2019). "Nigeria inaugurates water plants in Kwara State". Construction Review Online. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
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