Riyom Local Government Area
Riyom is a gateway to Plateau State from the Abuja and Nasarawa direction and is known for its striking rock formations.
Communities & Notable Areas in Riyom LGA
Riyom LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Riyom LGA
Riyom contains several indigenous Berom and neighbouring communities and became part of Plateau State in 1976. Its location made it an important route between Plateau and neighbouring states.
Geography of Riyom LGA
The LGA is characterised by hills, granite rock formations, valleys and highland farmland. Riyom Rock is its most famous natural feature.
Economy of Riyom LGA
Agriculture, livestock, quarrying, tourism and trade support the local economy. Crops include maize, vegetables, potatoes, yam and other food crops.
Landmarks & Attractions in Riyom LGA
Riyom Rock
Riyom Rock is a striking granite rock formation and one of Plateau State's most recognisable natural landmarks. Its unusual shapes and surrounding highland landscape make it a popular photography and tourism site.
About Riyom LGA — Key Facts & Context
Riyom Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the many LGAs that make up Plateau 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
Riyom LGA covers an area of approximately 807 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Riyom.
History of Riyom LGA Creation
Riyom 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.
Riyom LGA and Plateau State
As part of Plateau State in the North Central geopolitical zone, Riyom LGA contributes to the political, economic, and cultural character of the state. To see all LGAs in Plateau State, visit the full LGA listing.
Frequently Asked Questions — Riyom LGA
What is Riyom LGA known for?
Riyom is a gateway to Plateau State from the Abuja and Nasarawa direction and is known for its striking rock formations.
What is the headquarters of Riyom LGA?
The headquarters of Riyom LGA is Riyom, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Riyom in Plateau State?
Riyom is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Riyom. The LGA covers an area of approximately 807 km².
What are the communities in Riyom LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Riyom LGA include: Riyom town, Riyom Rock, Jol, Sharubutu and surrounding communities.
When was Riyom LGA created?
Riyom 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 Riyom LGA in Plateau State?
Riyom LGA covers an area of approximately 807 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Plateau State.
What is the population of Riyom LGA?
The estimated population of Riyom LGA is approximately 172625. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.