Benue State, Nigeria: A Guide to the Food Basket of the Nation

Ever wondered what makes Benue State, Nigeria, the “Food Basket of the Nation”?

Known for its agricultural prowess, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Benue is a must-visit for anyone exploring Nigeria.

Hi, I’m Simon Zaku, founder of IBIFoundry LLC. Today, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Benue State—from its history and culture to its top places to visit, eat, and stay.

1. A Brief History of Benue State

2. Benue State Postal Code

3. Benue State Airport

4. Hotels in Benue State

5. Chill-Out Spots in Benue State

6. Best Areas to Stay in Benue

7. Best Restaurants in Benue

8. Languages Spoken in Benue State

9. The Capital of Benue State

10. Towns in Benue State

11. The King of Benue State

12. Past and Present Governors of Benue State

13. Local Government Areas in Benue State

14. Universities and Institutions in Benue State

15. FAQ

A Brief History of Benue State

Benue State was created on February 3, 1976, and derives its name from the River Benue, which flows through the state.

The Tiv and Idoma are the dominant ethnic groups in the state, and Benue is well-known for its agricultural abundance, producing yams, cassava, rice, and fruits.

Historically, the state has played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s agricultural and cultural development.

Benue State Postal Code

The postal codes for Benue State vary depending on the area.

For instance, the postal code for Makurdi, the capital, is 970001, while other areas have codes ranging from 970002 to 972106.

Benue State Airport

Benue is served by the Makurdi Airport, located in the capital city.

While the airport primarily caters to military and small-scale commercial flights, plans for expansion are underway to boost tourism and connectivity.

Hotels in Benue State

Looking for comfortable accommodations in Benue?

Here are some of the top hotels:

Smile View Hotel – Located in Makurdi, offering budget-friendly options.
City Bay Hotel – A top-tier hotel with luxury amenities.
Satin Suites Makurdi – Known for its comfort and hospitality.
Royal Choice Inn – A great spot for business travelers.

Chill-Out Spots in Benue State

Benue is filled with exciting places to relax and unwind:

River Benue Beaches – Perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Benue State Museum and Archive – A place to explore the rich history and culture.
Makurdi Zoological Garden – Great for family outings.
Apir Hills – A serene and picturesque location.

Best Areas to Stay in Benue

When visiting Benue, consider staying in these top areas:

High-Level, Makurdi – Known for its modern facilities and security.
Old GRA, Makurdi – Offers serene and peaceful living.
Gboko Town – A hub for cultural exploration.

Best Restaurants in Benue

Here are some of the best places to eat in Benue:

Smile View Restaurant – Known for its local Tiv delicacies.
Mama’s Kitchen Makurdi – Famous for its pounded yam and egusi soup.
Food Basket Restaurant – Offers a mix of local and continental dishes.
Royal Treat Café – A cozy spot for snacks and drinks.

Languages Spoken in Benue State

The primary languages spoken in Benue are Tiv, Idoma, and Igede.

English is also widely spoken as the official language.

The Capital of Benue State

Makurdi is the capital of Benue State.

It serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the state.

Towns in Benue State

Some notable towns in Benue State include:

Makurdi
Gboko
Otukpo
Katsina-Ala
Vandeikya
Oju

The King of Benue State

Benue State does not have a singular king, as it is home to various traditional rulers from the Tiv, Idoma, and Igede ethnic groups.

The Tor Tiv is the paramount ruler of the Tiv people, while the Och’Idoma is the paramount ruler of the Idoma people.

Past and Present Governors of Benue State

Some notable governors of Benue State include:

Aper Aku (1979–1983)
George Akume (1999–2007)
Gabriel Suswam (2007–2015)
Samuel Ortom (2015–2023)
Hyacinth Alia (2023–Present)

Local Government Areas in Benue State

Benue State has 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs), including:

Makurdi
Gboko
Otukpo
Katsina-Ala
Oju
Tarka

Universities and Institutions in Benue State

Benue is home to several reputable educational institutions:

Benue State University (BSU) – A state-owned university in Makurdi.
Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM) – Known for its focus on agricultural research.
College of Education, Katsina-Ala – Specializes in teacher education.
Akperan Orshi College of Agriculture – Focuses on agricultural studies.

Conclusion - Discover Benue State: The Food Basket of Nigeria

Benue State is a fascinating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

From the vibrant capital city of Makurdi to the serene Apir Hills and the rich heritage of its people, Benue offers an unforgettable experience.

Are you ready to explore Benue State? Let IBI Foundry help you plan a bespoke trip tailored to your interests.

Book your Benue tour today and discover the true Food Basket of the Nation!

FAQs on Benue State, Nigeria

1. What is the postal code for Benue State?

The postal codes for Benue State range from 970001 to 972106, with 970001 being for Makurdi.

2. Does Benue State have an airport?

Yes, Benue is served by the Makurdi Airport.

3. Who are the traditional rulers in Benue State?

The Tor Tiv leads the Tiv people, while the Och’Idoma leads the Idoma people.

4. What is Benue State famous for?

Benue is famous for its agricultural produce and is known as the Food Basket of the Nation.

5. What are the best places to visit in Benue?

Some top places include the River Benue Beaches, Makurdi Zoological Garden, and Apir Hills.