Gumel Local Government Area
Gumel is one of Jigawa's five emirate headquarters and an important historical and commercial centre.
Communities & Notable Areas in Gumel LGA
Gumel LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Gumel LGA
Gumel has a long history as a major Hausa political and commercial centre. The Gumel Emirate predates the creation of Jigawa State and remains one of the state's five traditional emirates.
When Jigawa was created in 1991, Gumel became part of the new state and retained its importance as an emirate centre.
Geography of Gumel LGA
Gumel is located in northern Jigawa in a relatively dry savanna environment. The LGA is smaller in land area than many other Jigawa LGAs but has a comparatively dense settlement pattern around the town.
Economy of Gumel LGA
Gumel is an important commercial centre. Trade, agriculture, livestock, transport, small-scale manufacturing and services contribute to the local economy. Its historic position has made it an important market and administrative centre.
About Gumel LGA — Key Facts & Context
Gumel Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the many LGAs that make up Jigawa 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
Gumel LGA covers an area of approximately 227 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Gumel.
History of Gumel LGA Creation
Gumel LGA was formally established in 1991 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.
Gumel LGA and Jigawa State
As part of Jigawa State in the North West geopolitical zone, Gumel LGA contributes to the political, economic, and cultural character of the state. To see all LGAs in Jigawa State, visit the full LGA listing.
Frequently Asked Questions — Gumel LGA
What is Gumel LGA known for?
Gumel is one of Jigawa's five emirate headquarters and an important historical and commercial centre.
What is the headquarters of Gumel LGA?
The headquarters of Gumel LGA is Gumel, Jigawa State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Gumel in Jigawa State?
Gumel is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Gumel. The LGA covers an area of approximately 227 km².
What are the communities in Gumel LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Gumel LGA include: Gumel town, Gumel Emirate, historic palace area, markets and commercial districts.
When was Gumel LGA created?
Gumel LGA was created in 1991, making it approximately 35 years old. It was established as part of Nigeria's LGA creation exercises under the federal military government.
How large is Gumel LGA in Jigawa State?
Gumel LGA covers an area of approximately 227 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Jigawa State.
What is the population of Gumel LGA?
The estimated population of Gumel LGA is approximately 106371. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.