Lau Local Government Area
Lau is a riverine agricultural LGA located near the Benue and Taraba river systems.
Communities & Notable Areas in Lau LGA
Lau LGA encompasses the following major communities, neighbourhoods, and areas:
History of Lau LGA
Lau contains diverse indigenous communities including Kunini, Winlau, Bandawa, Shomo, Minda, Mumuye, Yandang, Jenjo and others. The LGA developed as part of the post-1991 administrative structure of Taraba.
Geography of Lau LGA
The area contains savanna plains, floodplains and riverine landscapes. The Benue and Taraba river systems contribute to fishing and agricultural activity.
Economy of Lau LGA
Agriculture, fishing, livestock and commerce are important. Rice, yam, maize and other crops are cultivated around riverine areas.
About Lau LGA — Key Facts & Context
Lau 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
Lau LGA covers an area of approximately 1,660 km². Its administrative headquarters is at Lau.
History of Lau LGA Creation
Lau 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.
Lau LGA and Taraba State
As part of Taraba State in the North East geopolitical zone, Lau 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 — Lau LGA
What is Lau LGA known for?
Lau is a riverine agricultural LGA located near the Benue and Taraba river systems.
What is the headquarters of Lau LGA?
The headquarters of Lau LGA is Lau, Taraba State, Nigeria.
Which local government is Lau in Taraba State?
Lau is its own Local Government Area (LGA) in Taraba State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is Lau. The LGA covers an area of approximately 1,660 km².
What are the communities in Lau LGA?
The major communities and notable areas in Lau LGA include: Lau town, Kunini, Winlau, Bandawa, Shomo, Minda.
When was Lau LGA created?
Lau 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 Lau LGA in Taraba State?
Lau LGA covers an area of approximately 1,660 square kilometres (km²), making it one of the LGAs in Taraba State.
What is the population of Lau LGA?
The estimated population of Lau LGA is approximately 162900. Note that Nigeria's last official census was conducted in 2006, so current population figures are estimates based on projections.