Kwara (State, Southern Nigeria)

Situated on the south bank of the Niger River as it winds towards the confluence at Lokoja, Kwara state was created in 1967 as one of the original twelve states of the Nigerian federation by General Yakubu Gowon after the regional system was jettisoned. Prior to its creation, Kwara state was established as part of the Northern Region. It maintained its original boundaries until 1991 when Kogi state was created from its eastern towns near Lokoja and the western third of Benue state.

Despite losing some if its land mass to neighbouring Kogi and Niger states in the course of state creation and boundary adjustment exercises, Kwara remains one of Nigeria's largest states; covering an area of about 37,000 square kilometers sub-divided into 16 Local Government Areas: Asa, Baruten, Edu, Ekiti, Ifelodun, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Ilorin West, Irepodun, lsin, Kaiama, Moro, Offa, One Ero, Oyun and Pategi.

Kwara state is historically linked with both the Yoruba-dominated southern region, and the predominantly Hausa/Muslim north. Its capital city Ilorin once a major administrative centre for the Oyo Empire, was captured by Fulani jihadists in the early 19th century, leading to the establishment of an emirate there. Today, Kwara state, also known as 'The State of Harmony', is home to a culturally and religiously diverse population of over 3 million people coexisting peacefully, though the predominant ethnic groups are the Yoruba, Nupe, Bariba and Fulani. Hausa, Yoruba and English are widely spoken but the latter is the official language for business.

Kwara state is endowed with solid mineral resources. Limestone, marble, kaolin, and quartz are all found in different parts of the state. With such sites as the expansive Kainji Lake National Park, the Owu waterfalls, the mysterious lmoleboja Rock Shelter (believed to have been constructed by supernatural entities), and the Esie Museum with curious soapstone figures, attracting thousands of tourists yearly, Kwara state also boasts a fairly active tourism industry.

The colourful Pategi Regatta is also a popular attraction for visitors to the state, and history buffs may be enthralled at the opportunity to visit the ancient town of Jebba where the famous Scottish explorer Mungo Part is buried. Mungo Part died while on his second expedition to trace the course of the Niger River; having been attacked by natives at Bussa

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