Jalingo Local Government Area
Jalingo is the capital of Taraba State and the main administrative, political and commercial centre of the state.
Communities & Notable Areas in Jalingo LGA
Jalingo LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Jalingo LGA
Jalingo developed as an important administrative centre in the Muri region and became the capital of Taraba State after the state was created in 1991.
Geography of Jalingo LGA
Jalingo occupies a relatively low-lying area surrounded by rolling savanna landscapes. The city is connected by road to major towns throughout Taraba.
Economy of Jalingo LGA
Government, commerce, education, transport, construction, services and small-scale manufacturing dominate the economy.
Notable People from Jalingo LGA
Former Minister of Women Affairs and former Senator representing Taraba North.
1959 – 2021Catholic Archbishop and prominent Nigerian Christian leader who has served in senior ecclesiastical positions.
1958About Jalingo LGA — Key Facts & Context
Jalingo Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the many LGAs that make up Taraba 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
Jalingo LGA covers an area of approximately 401 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Jalingo.
History of Jalingo LGA Creation
Jalingo 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.
Jalingo LGA and Taraba State
As part of Taraba State in the North East geopolitical zone, Jalingo LGA contributes to the political, economic, and cultural character of the state. To see all LGAs in Taraba State, visit the full LGA listing.
Frequently Asked Questions — Jalingo LGA
What is Jalingo LGA known for?
Jalingo is the capital of Taraba State and the main administrative, political and commercial centre of the state.
What is the headquarters of Jalingo LGA?
The headquarters of Jalingo LGA is Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Jalingo in Taraba State?
Jalingo is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Taraba State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Jalingo. The LGA covers an area of approximately 401 km².
What are the communities in Jalingo LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Jalingo LGA include: Jalingo city, Wuro Sembe, Kasuwan Yelwa, Jalingo Main Market, Government House.
When was Jalingo LGA created?
Jalingo 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 Jalingo LGA in Taraba State?
Jalingo LGA covers an area of approximately 401 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Taraba State.
What is the population of Jalingo LGA?
The estimated population of Jalingo LGA is approximately 240300. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.