Oredo Local Government Area
Oredo is the central LGA of Benin City and contains many of Edo State's most important government, cultural and historic landmarks.
Communities & Notable Areas in Oredo LGA
Oredo LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Oredo LGA
Oredo occupies the historic core of Benin City and is deeply connected with the history of the Benin Kingdom. The area contains the royal palace, historic markets, museums and major government institutions.
Geography of Oredo LGA
The LGA is highly urbanised. Most natural vegetation has been replaced by residential, commercial, institutional and road infrastructure. The area has relatively low and gently undulating terrain.
Economy of Oredo LGA
Government, commerce, finance, education, tourism, hospitality, transport, retail, construction, property and services dominate the economy.
Landmarks & Attractions in Oredo LGA
Oba's Palace, Benin City
The Oba's Palace is the historic royal residence of the Oba of Benin and one of the most important cultural landmarks in Edo State. The palace represents centuries of Benin political, religious and artistic history.
National Museum Benin City
The National Museum Benin City houses important collections relating to the history and artistic heritage of the Benin Kingdom, including sculptures, ceremonial objects and other archaeological and ethnographic materials.
Igun Street
Igun Street is internationally known for traditional bronze and brass casting. It is associated with the guild traditions of Benin artists and remains an important centre for the production of traditional and contemporary Benin artworks.
Benin Moat
The Benin Moat, also known as Iya, represents one of the largest and most impressive earthwork systems associated with the historic Benin Kingdom. The earthworks demonstrate the scale and organisation of the ancient kingdom.
Emotan Statue
The Emotan Statue commemorates Emotan, a woman traditionally remembered for helping restore the fortunes of the Benin royal institution during a period of political difficulty. The statue stands near the King's Square area of Benin City.
Benin City National Arts and Culture Centre
The cultural facilities in Benin City support exhibitions, performances, cultural education and preservation of Edo heritage. They contribute to the city's role as a major Nigerian cultural centre.
Notable People from Oredo LGA
Governor of Edo State from 2016 to 2024 and former investment and financial professional.
1957About Oredo LGA — Key Facts & Context
Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the many LGAs that make up Edo 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
Oredo LGA covers an area of approximately 249 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Benin City.
History of Oredo LGA Creation
Oredo 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.
Oredo LGA and Edo State
As part of Edo State in the South South geopolitical zone, Oredo LGA contributes to the political, economic, and cultural character of the state. To see all LGAs in Edo State, visit the full LGA listing.
Frequently Asked Questions — Oredo LGA
What is Oredo LGA known for?
Oredo is the central LGA of Benin City and contains many of Edo State's most important government, cultural and historic landmarks.
What is the headquarters of Oredo LGA?
The headquarters of Oredo LGA is Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Oredo in Edo State?
Oredo is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Benin City. The LGA covers an area of approximately 249 km².
What are the communities in Oredo LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Oredo LGA include: Benin City centre, Ring Road, Oba Palace, Igun Street, King's Square, Government Reservation Area and surrounding districts.
When was Oredo LGA created?
Oredo 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 Oredo LGA in Edo State?
Oredo LGA covers an area of approximately 249 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Edo State.
What is the population of Oredo LGA?
Accurate, up-to-date population data for Oredo LGA is not available, as Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006. Current figures are based on projections from that census.