Kwande Local Government Area
Kwande is one of Benue's largest LGAs by land area and contains important hill and agricultural landscapes.
Communities & Notable Areas in Kwande LGA
Kwande LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Kwande LGA
Kwande has a long history of Tiv settlement and traditional organisation. Adikpo developed as the administrative and commercial centre of the LGA.
Geography of Kwande LGA
Kwande contains some of the more elevated and hilly landscapes of Benue. The area also includes extensive Guinea savanna, agricultural plains and forest patches.
Economy of Kwande LGA
Agriculture is the main economic activity, with yam, cassava, maize, rice, soybean, fruits and vegetables. Livestock farming and cross-border trade are also important.
Landmarks & Attractions in Kwande LGA
Ikyogen Cattle Ranch
The Ikyogen Cattle Ranch is located in the Kwande area of eastern Benue and has historical significance in livestock development and agricultural production.
About Kwande LGA — Key Facts & Context
Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the many LGAs that make up Benue State in Nigeria. Local Government Areas are the third tier of government in Nigeria, below the federal and state governments. Each LGA is governed by an elected Local Government Chairman and councillors, responsible for primary education, basic healthcare, local roads, and community development.
Size and Geography
Kwande LGA covers an area of approximately 2,891 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Adikpo.
History of Kwande LGA Creation
Kwande LGA was formally established in 1976 as part of Nigeria's local government reform exercises carried out by the federal military government. Nigeria's current system of 774 LGAs was built through a series of administrative reforms — most significantly the 1976 reform under General Murtala Muhammed and subsequent exercises in 1991 and 1996. For the full context, see History of State Creation in Nigeria.
Kwande LGA and Benue State
As part of Benue State in the North Central geopolitical zone, Kwande LGA contributes to the political, economic, and cultural character of the state. To see all LGAs in Benue State, visit the full LGA listing.
Frequently Asked Questions — Kwande LGA
What is Kwande LGA known for?
Kwande is one of Benue's largest LGAs by land area and contains important hill and agricultural landscapes.
What is the headquarters of Kwande LGA?
The headquarters of Kwande LGA is Adikpo, Benue State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Kwande in Benue State?
Kwande is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Adikpo. The LGA covers an area of approximately 2,891 km².
What are the communities in Kwande LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Kwande LGA include: Adikpo, Jato-Aka, Kwande Hills, Turan, Kyanana, Ikyogen.
When was Kwande LGA created?
Kwande LGA was created in 1976, making it approximately 50 years old. It was established as part of Nigeria's LGA creation exercises under the federal military government.
How large is Kwande LGA in Benue State?
Kwande LGA covers an area of approximately 2,891 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Benue State.
What is the population of Kwande LGA?
The estimated population of Kwande LGA is approximately 387228. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.