This guide comprehensively lists all the local government areas In Niger State and their elected chairman. Niger, located in the North Central region of Nigeria is the largest state in Nigeria by land area, with its capital in Minna.
Other major cities in the state are Bida, Kontagora, and Suleja. Niger was formed in 1976 when the former North-Western states split into Niger and Sokoto States.
The state is home to two former Nigerian military leaders, Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar. Niger is named after the River Niger, and it hosts notable power stations like Kainji Dam, Shiroro Dam, and the new Zungeru Dam. It also features the famous Gurara Falls and Kainji National Park.
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List Of Niger State Local Government Areas And Their Chairmen
Niger State has 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs), and each LGA has its elected chairman:
- Agaie – Hon. Ibrahim Halilu Sayuti
- Agwara – Alhaji Jafar Mohammed Aliyu Abba
- Bida – Hon. Bala Shaba
- Borgu – Hon Abdulrahman Bala
- Bosso – Hon. Ladidi Bawa
- Chanchaga – RT. Hon. Aminu Yakubu
- Edati – Hon. Sunday Daniel Yisa
- Gbako – Hon. Hassan Muhammad
- Gurara – Hon. Abdul-Alim Abubakar
- Katcha –
- Kontagora – Hon. Umaru Moh’d Bago
- Lapai – Hon. Mohammed Musa Kirikpo
- Lavun –
- Magama – Hon. Muktar Hussaini
- Mariga – Hon. Alh. Abbas Adamu Kasuwan Garba
- Mashegu – Hon. Umar Jibrin Igade
- Mokwa – Alhaji Jibrin Abdullahi Muregi
- Munya – HON. A. A. Najume
- Paikoro – Hon. Aminu Umar Yandayi
- Rafi – Aliyu Usman Katako
- Rijau – Hon Danladi K Uganda
- Shiroro – Akilu Ishaku Kuta
- Suleja – Hon Isyaku Bawa Naibi
- Tafa
- Wushishi – Hon Mohammed Kpoti Yelwa
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Which Tribe Owns Niger State?
The three largest and most influential tribes in Niger state are the Nupe, Gbagyi (also known as Gbiri-Nah or Gwari), and Hausa.
These groups have lived in the state for generations, and each one has its own unique culture, traditions, and way of life. The Nupe people are one of the major groups in Niger State.
They mostly live in the central and southern parts of the state. The Nupe are known for their deep cultural traditions, which include music, dance, and crafts like weaving.
Their language, also called Nupe, is spoken by many people in the community. In terms of work, the Nupe are mainly farmers, growing crops like yams, cassava, and maize.
However, the Nupe have played a part in the political and economic life of the region. Even today, their traditional leaders hold a significant influence in local governance.
Another large group in Niger State is the Gbagyi, also known as Gbiri-Nah or Gwari. They mainly live in the central areas of the state and are known for their agricultural practices.
The Gbagyi people have a strong family and community structure, focusing on kinship. The Gbagyi language has several dialects, and it is used widely in the area.
Craftsmanship is another part of Gbagyi culture, especially pottery and weaving, which they have passed down through generations.
Their social systems and traditions have made them a big part of the state’s cultural fabric. The Hausa people, one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, also have a strong presence in Niger State.
The Hausa are mostly found in the urban areas of the state, where they are involved in a variety of trades and businesses.
And, the Hausa language is widely spoken across northern Nigeria, and it serves as a common language for many people in the region.
The Hausa are known for their culture, including their traditional music, arts, and their deep involvement in Islamic scholarship. Over the centuries, they have influenced many aspects of life in Niger State, from education to trade.
Aside from these three main groups, there are other smaller tribes in Niger State, such as the Kambari, Kadara, Koro, and Baraba. Each of these groups contributes to the state’s diversity.
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What Is The Largest Local Government In Niger State By Population?
Mokwa is the largest local government area (LGA) in Niger State, Nigeria, by population, with an estimated population of around 426,000 people in 2025.
Mokwa is located in the western part of Niger State, and It is surrounded by several other local government areas, such as Shiroro to the north and Borgu to the west.
The area is quite large in terms of land size, which allows it to accommodate such a large population. This land area is also rich and fertile, supporting many agricultural activities.
Farming is an essential part of life in Mokwa, and it helps sustain both the local economy and the people. People in Mokwa grow different crops like yams, cassava, and maize, which are not only important for local consumption but are also sold in markets to generate income.
The people living in Mokwa are ethnically diverse, with the Nupe, Gbagyi, and Hausa groups being the main communities.
This mix of ethnic groups has made the area culturally rich, with different traditions, festivals, and languages. The Nupe people, who are one of the largest groups in the area, have a strong influence on the local culture.
Economically, Mokwa is a massive center for trade and business in Niger State. The local markets in the area are always busy, with agricultural products, crafts, and other goods.
Mokwa’s location along major roads and transportation routes makes it easy for people from surrounding areas to travel there for business and trade.
