Wase Local Government Area
Wase is the largest Plateau LGA by commonly published land-area figures and is famous for Wase Rock and its historic traditional institution.
Communities & Notable Areas in Wase LGA
Wase LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Wase LGA
Wase has a distinctive history as a traditional settlement and emirate. Historical accounts place the development of the Wase traditional state in the nineteenth century. The area later became incorporated into British colonial administration and subsequently Plateau State.
Geography of Wase LGA
Wase covers extensive savanna plains and rocky landscapes. The famous Wase Rock rises dramatically from the surrounding terrain and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Plateau State.
Economy of Wase LGA
Agriculture, livestock, mining and trade are important. Crops include millet, groundnuts, maize, yam and cassava. Lead and zinc and other mineral resources occur in the area.
Landmarks & Attractions in Wase LGA
Wase Rock
Wase Rock is a dramatic isolated rock formation rising above the surrounding landscape. It is one of the most famous geological landmarks in Plateau State and is an important symbol of the Wase area.
Pandam Wildlife Park
Pandam Wildlife Park is one of Nigeria's important wildlife conservation areas. It contains savanna and woodland habitats and supports diverse wildlife. The park is associated with the southern part of Plateau State.
About Wase LGA — Key Facts & Context
Wase 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
Wase LGA covers an area of approximately 5,031 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Wase.
History of Wase LGA Creation
Wase 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.
Wase LGA and Plateau State
As part of Plateau State in the North Central geopolitical zone, Wase 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 — Wase LGA
What is Wase LGA known for?
Wase is the largest Plateau LGA by commonly published land-area figures and is famous for Wase Rock and its historic traditional institution.
What is the headquarters of Wase LGA?
The headquarters of Wase LGA is Wase, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Wase in Plateau State?
Wase is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Wase. The LGA covers an area of approximately 5,031 km².
What are the communities in Wase LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Wase LGA include: Wase town, Wase Rock, Bashar, Lamba and surrounding communities.
When was Wase LGA created?
Wase 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 Wase LGA in Plateau State?
Wase LGA covers an area of approximately 5,031 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Plateau State.
What is the population of Wase LGA?
The estimated population of Wase LGA is approximately 209410. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.