This guide comprehensively lists all the local government areas in Plateau State with their elected chairman. Plateau State, located in North Central Nigeria is named after the Jos Plateau, a highland area with unique rock formations.
The state is known as “The Home of Peace and Tourism” and has a population of about 5.07 million people. Its capital is Jos, a city famous for its cool climate and rich culture. The state shares borders with Bauchi, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Taraba states.
The climate in Plateau State is cooler than most parts of Nigeria because of its high altitude. Also, the temperature ranges between 13°C and 22°C, with the coldest months from December to February.
Rainfall is highest between July and August. The land is covered with hills, valleys, and waterfalls, making it a beautiful place.
Tourist sites in the state include the Jos Wildlife Park, Assop Falls, Wase Rock, and the National Museum. The state is also rich in minerals like tin, iron ore, and coal, which have been mined for many years.
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List Of Plateau Local Government Areas And Their Chairmen
Plateau State is divided into 17 Local Government Areas, each with its own elected chairman:
- Jos East – Markus Nyam
- Riyom – Bature Sati
- Jos South – Hon. Silas Patrick Dung
- Bassa – Joshua Sunday Riti
- Barkin Ladi – Hon. Pwajok Stephen
- Jos North – John K. Chris
- Mangu – Emmanuel Mwolpun
- Bokkos – Amalau Samuel
- Pankshin – Felix Amos Gonung
- Kanke – Lapching Golime
- Kanam – Salihu Musa
- Shendam – Nichokas Kemi Nshe
- Quanpan – Christopher Audu Manshep
- Mikang – Bernard Alkali
- Langtang North – Pirfa Jingfa
- Langtang South – Nanfa Nbin
- Wase – Mr. Hamisu Anani
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First Local Government In Plateau State
Jos North is the first local government area established in Plateau State, Nigeria. It was created in 1976 during the military rule of Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi.
This was part of a national restructuring effort to improve governance and administration across the country. During this period, 19 states were created, along with their corresponding local government areas.
Jos North became one of the original LGAs in the newly formed Plateau State, which was carved out of the former Benue-Plateau State on February 3, 1976. Jos North is home to the city of Jos, which serves as the capital of Plateau State.
Historically, Jos has played a major part in Nigeria’s economy due to its tin mining industry, which began in 1902 under British colonial rule.
The success of this industry helped Jos grow into a significant administrative and commercial center. Today, Jos North remains an important hub for government activities, trade, and education.
In fact, it is the richest local government area in the state, and also the most populated. Geographically, Jos North is located in the heart of Plateau State, covering parts of the Jos Plateau.
This region is known for its high altitude, beautiful rock formations, and cool climate. It is also one of the most diverse areas in Nigeria, with many ethnic groups and cultures coexisting.
The local government area hosts key government institutions, including the Plateau State Secretariat, and is a center for commerce, education, and tourism.
Despite its growth, Jos North has faced challenges over the years, including ethnic tensions and disputes over land ownership.
However, the presence of major institutions such as the University of Jos and its active markets contribute to its economic and social importance.
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Which LGA Is The Biggest In Plateau State By Land Mass?
The biggest Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State by land mass is Jos South. Jos South covers a total area of 5,104 square kilometers (1,971 square miles).
It is located in the central part of Plateau State, with its headquarters in Bukuru. The LGA is positioned at coordinates 9°46′N 8°48′E.
Jos South is home to the Plateau State Government House, which includes the Office of the Executive Governor and other key administrative departments.
The Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency is also based in Jos South, specifically in the Rayfield area. This makes Jos South the de facto administrative capital of the state.
In terms of population, Jos South had 458,100 people as of 2025 population projection, with a population density of 604 people per square kilometer (1,560 per square mile). This makes it the second most populated LGA in Plateau State, following Jos North.
