Know The Origin And Meaning of Nigeria’s 36 States Names

Nigeria is a nation of immense diversity, boasting a rich tapestry of ethnicities, languages, and cultures. It is divided into 36 states and one Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), each with its own unique identity and history.

The creation of these states, particularly following the 1976 state reorganization, was intended to promote better governance and representation of Nigeria’s myriad communities.

Each state name often carries significant historical, geographical, or cultural connotations, reflecting the traditions, heritage, or notable figures of the region.

Understanding the origins of these names is key to appreciating the complexity of Nigeria’s socio-political landscape and the identities of its peoples.

Here is a look at the origins of the names of Nigeria’s 36 states, providing insights into their meanings and significance.

 1. Abia State

The name Abia is derived from the acronym of the state’s major towns: Aba, Bende, Ikwuano, and Umuahia. Each town represents a key cultural and commercial center in the state.

 2. Adamawa State

Named after the legendary Fulani leader, Alhaji Modibo Adama, a Fulani warrior who founded the Adamawa Emirate.  This state reflects the historical influence of Fulani culture in the region.

 3. Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom means “the place where the water is” in Efik. Derived from the Kwa Ibo River, which flows through the state. It signifies the state’s rich water resources, which are integral to its agriculture and economy.

 4. Anambra State

Named after the ‘Omambala River’, a significant waterways that flows through the region.

 5. Bauchi State

Believed to be named after a famous hunter called Baushe. The state is known for its rich history rooted in the Hausa-Fulani culture.

 6. Bayelsa State

Bayelsa was Formed from the initials of the major three local government areas: Brass (BALGA), Yenagoa (YELGA), and Sagbama (SALGA) or Southern Ijaw. The name signifies the state’s coastal and riverine character.

 7. Benue State

Named after the Benue River, which means “Mother of Waters” in the Batta language. It is one of Nigeria’s longest rivers, providing vital resources and trade routes for communities in the region.

 8. Borno State

This state is named after the ancient Borno Empire, which was a significant cultural and trade center in West Africa, reflecting its historical origins.

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 9. Cross River

Cross River derives its name from the Cross River itself, a major waterway that has played a crucial role in the state’s economic activities. It is significant for trade and transportation.

 10. Delta State

Named for the Niger River Delta, where the deltaic environment is characterized by rich biodiversity and significant oil reserves, which contribute to Nigeria’s economy.

 11. Ebonyi State

Ebonyi derives its name from the Eboine River, which flows through the state capital, Abakiliki, highlighting the importance of water bodies in local agriculture and trade.

 12. Edo State

Edo is named after the Edo-speaking people and the historic Benin Kingdom, of which is the  state capital. It symbolizes the cultural heritage of the Bini people.

 13. Ekiti Sate

Named after the Ekiti people. The name Ekiti comes from the Yoruba word for “hilly terrain,” fitting for its geography. The state is known for its academic institutions and cultural festivals.

 14. Enugu State

Enugu derives its name from the Igbo phrase “Enu Ugwu,” meaning “the top of the hill,” which references the state’s hilly landscape. The state is also known as the coal city due to its historical coal mining.

 

15. Gombe State

Gombe derived  its name from “Gombe” which relates to the Gombe Emirate, underscoring the historical influence of local emirates.

 16. Imo State

Named after the Imo River, the largest river in the state which flows through the region. The state is recognized for its rich Igbo heritage and culture.

 17. Jigawa state

Derived from the Hausa word for a type of soil, reflecting the region’s agricultural. Jigawa, meaning “streams or water,” highlights the state’s agricultural potential and rich water resources, conducive for farming.

 18. Kaduna Sate

The name Kaduna is derived from the Hausa word “Kadan,” which means “crocodile,” reflecting the crocodile population in the Kaduna River. Also significant for  the river and the animals associated with it in the local culture.

 19. Kano State

Named after a blacksmith named Kano from the Gaya tribe, who settled in the area. This state has a rich history dating back to the ancient Kanem-Bornu Empire, known for trade and cultural exchanges.

 20. Katsina State

Believed to be named after the wife of a local ruler, Janzama. Which was an important location in the trans-Saharan trade, contributing to its historic prominence.

 21. Kebbi Sate

The name Kebbi is  Named after the Kebbawa, a subgroup of the Hausa people who settled in the area. Reflecting the local Wazirin Kebbi and its cultural heritage.

 22. Kogi State

Derived from the Hausa word for river, reflecting the state’s location near the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers. Symbolizing the meeting point of various ethnicities and cultures.

 23. Kwara Sate

Named after the local name for the River Niger, meaning “sea” or “lake” in Nupe.

 24. Lagos State

The name Lagos is derived from the Portuguese word for “lakes,” reflecting the numerous lagoons and waterways in the area, indicative of its coastal geography.

 25. Nasarawa State

Nasarawa comes from the local word “Nasarawa,” meaning “Victorious,” reflecting the state’s agricultural resources and welcoming nature.

 26. Niger State

Niger derives its name from the Niger River, a major river in West Africa. Which runs through the state, serving as a lifeline for the communities that depend on it.

 27. Ogun State

The state is named after the Ogun River in Yoruba mythology, associated with the god of iron and war.

 28. Ondo State

Ondo’s name originates from a local word meaning “a place of wealth,” emphasizing the state’s rich natural resources.

 29. Osun State

Named after the Osun River, which is sacred to the Yoruba people and known for its cultural significance, especially in relation to the Osun-Osogbo Festival.

 30. Oyo Sate

Oyo is named after the historical Oyo Empire, which was a prominent Yoruba kingdom known for its influence in West Africa.

 31. Plateau State

The name Plateau describes the geographical features of the state, characterized by elevated landforms, and is indicative of its significance in agriculture. Known for its cool climate and scenic landscapes.

 32. Rivers Sate

Named after the numerous rivers flowing through it, Rivers State is significant for its extensive riverine network and is central to Nigeria’s oil industry.

 33. Sokoto State

Sokoto is named after the city of Sokoto, which was the center of the Sokoto Caliphate, a major Islamic empire in West Africa. Derived from the Arabic word “suk,” meaning “market.”

 34. Taraba State

Taraba derives its name from the Taraba River, reflecting the river’s importance to agricultural practices in the state.

 35. Yobe Sate

The name Yobe comes from the Yobe River which is called “Komadougou Yobe” in Fulfulde. An essential waterway for irrigation and sustenance in the state.

 36. Zamfara State

Zamfara is named after the historical Zamfara Kingdom, which played an influential role in local trade and governance.

The names of Nigeria’s 36 states are more than mere identifiers; they encapsulate the history, geography, and culture of the regions they represent.

From rivers to historical empires, each name tells a story that contributes to the broader narrative of Nigeria’s rich and multifaceted identity.