Niger State • Local Government Area • Niger North

Borgu Local Government Area

Borgu is one of Niger State's largest LGAs by land area and contains major national energy and tourism assets.

Headquarters New-Bussa
Land Area 11,783 km²
Population (est.) 328000
Year Created 1991
Zone Niger North
State Niger State
Country Nigeria

Communities & Notable Areas in Borgu LGA

Borgu LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:

1 New-Bussa
2 Kainji Lake
3 Kainji Dam
4 Kainji Lake National Park
5 Wawa
6 Borgu Emirate

History of Borgu LGA

Borgu became part of Niger State following the 1991 merger of the Borgu area from the old Kwara State. The area has a long history of traditional kingdoms and cross-border interaction with communities in present-day Benin.

Geography of Borgu LGA

Borgu is characterised by extensive savanna, Kainji Lake, the River Niger and large conservation areas. Its enormous landmass makes it one of the least densely populated parts of the state.

Economy of Borgu LGA

Agriculture, fishing, livestock, tourism, forestry and commerce are major economic activities. Kainji Lake supports fishing and related businesses.

Landmarks & Attractions in Borgu LGA

Kainji Dam

Kainji Dam is one of Nigeria's most important hydroelectric projects. Constructed across the River Niger, the dam created Kainji Lake and plays a major role in national electricity generation, fisheries, irrigation and regional economic activity.

Kainji Lake National Park

Kainji Lake National Park is a major protected area comprising diverse wildlife habitats and savanna landscapes. The park is important for conservation, tourism and ecological research.

About Borgu LGA — Key Facts & Context

Borgu Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the many LGAs that make up Niger 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

Borgu LGA covers an area of approximately 11,783 km². Its administrative headquarters is at New-Bussa.

History of Borgu LGA Creation

Borgu 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.

Borgu LGA and Niger State

As part of Niger State in the North Central geopolitical zone, Borgu LGA contributes to the political, economic, and cultural character of the state. To see all LGAs in Niger State, visit the full LGA listing.

Frequently Asked Questions — Borgu LGA

What is Borgu LGA known for?

Borgu is one of Niger State's largest LGAs by land area and contains major national energy and tourism assets.

What is the headquarters of Borgu LGA?

The headquarters of Borgu LGA is New-Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria.

Which local government is Borgu in Niger State?

Borgu is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is New-Bussa. The LGA covers an area of approximately 11,783 km².

What are the communities in Borgu LGA?

The major communities and notable areas in Borgu LGA include: New-Bussa, Kainji Lake, Kainji Dam, Kainji Lake National Park, Wawa, Borgu Emirate.

When was Borgu LGA created?

Borgu 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 Borgu LGA in Niger State?

Borgu LGA covers an area of approximately 11,783 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Niger State.

What is the population of Borgu LGA?

The estimated population of Borgu LGA is approximately 328000. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.