Complete List Of LGAs In Edo State, Capital, And LGA Chairmen
S/N | LGA | Capital | Chairman |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Akoko-Edo | Igarra | Mr. Tajudeen Sulaiman |
2 | Egor | Uselu | Eghe Ogbemudia |
3 | Esan Central | Irrua | Hon. Paul Iyoha |
4 | Esan North-East | Uromi | Dr. inedegbor Kelly |
5 | Esan South-East | Ubiaja | Victor Emuanagbon |
6 | Esan West | Ekpoma | Hon. Collins Aigbogun |
7 | Etsako Central | Fugar | Hon. Solomon Imokhai Obomighie |
8 | Etsako East | Agenebode | Hon. Benedicta Attoh |
9 | Etsako West | Auchi | Hon. Zibiri Muhizu Marvelous |
10 | Igueben | Igueben | Hon. Dr. Josie Ogedegbe |
11 | Ikpoba-Okha | Idogbo | Dr. Eric Osayande |
12 | Oredo | Benin City | Dr. Tom Obaseki |
13 | Orhionmwon | Abudu | Hon. Newman Oghomwen Ugiagbe |
14 | Ovia North-East | Okada | Mr. Collins Ogbewe |
15 | Ovia South-West | Iguobazuwa | Engr. Edosa Enowoghomwenma |
16 | Owan East | Afuze | Hon. Andrew Osigwe |
17 | Owan West | Sabongida-Ora | Mr. Frank Ilaboya |
18 | Uhunmwonde | Ehor | Hon. Adodo Kenneth Osarobo |
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What Is The Capital Of Edo State?
Benin City serves as the capital and largest city of Edo State. According to the 2006 census, it ranks as Nigeria’s fourth-largest city, following Lagos, Kano, and Ibadan.
Positioned approximately 40 kilometers north of the Benin River and 320 kilometers east of Lagos by road, Benin City boasts a rich historical heritage and significant economic activities.
Historically, Benin City thrived as a robust settlement of the Edo Kingdom of Benin, which prospered from the 13th to the 19th century. The city’s trade relations with Portugal flourished during this time.
However, in 1897, British forces captured and sacked the city, leading to the looting of valuable artifacts, notably the Benin Bronzes, which are now exhibited in museums worldwide.
Today, Benin City remains a cultural hub, inhabited predominantly by the Edo people, known for their rich dress culture and traditional practices.
Festivals like the Igue festival, held annually between Christmas and New Year, highlight the city’s vibrant heritage and traditions.
Additionally, attractions such as the National Museum, Oba Palace, and Igun Street, renowned for bronze casting, draw tourists and locals alike.
Moreover, Benin City serves as an educational center, and housing institutions like the University of Benin, Ambrose Alli University, and Igbinedion University. These institutions contribute to the city’s intellectual and academic landscape.
Despite its cultural and historical significance, Benin City faces environmental challenges, including flooding and waste management issues.
Efforts to address these challenges are ongoing, with recommendations for improved urban planning and community-based programs.
Which LGA Is The Biggest In Edo State?
Orhionmwon is the biggest Local Government Area (LGA) in Edo state. Established during the era of the defunct Bendel State, it emerged as a significant administrative unit, with its headquarters located in the vibrant town of Abudu.
Spanning an expansive area of 2,382 square kilometers and boasting a population of 206,717 as per the 2006 census, Orhionmwon LGA is renowned for its rich endowment of natural resources. Notably, it hosts the largest gas deposit in Nigeria, if not in West Africa.
Beyond its mineral wealth, the region is adorned with the lush Urhonigbe Rubber Plantation, Oil Palm Plantation, and the inviting Sokponba Resort, among other attractions.
The geography of Orhionmwon is diverse, encompassing fertile lands ideal for agriculture. Plantains, yams, cassava, and maize thrive there which contribute to a flourishing agricultural industry.
The area is also home to bustling markets that serve as vibrant hubs of trade, drawing in traders and buyers from far and wide. The socio-economic landscape of Orhionmwon is seen by different economic activities.
From food processing to logging and animal breeding, the industrious residents engage in various endeavors to sustain their livelihoods.
The local government is dominated by Benin-speaking communities such as Ugo, Umoghun Nokhua, Oben, Ikobi, and Okogbo.
In addition, the list of towns and villages within Orhionmwon LGA is extensive, each contributing to the mosaic of community life. From Aibiokunla to Iguehanza, these settlements are teeming with life and industry.
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Which Is The Richest LGA In Edo State?
Oredo Local Government Area is regarded as the wealthiest among the 18 local government areas in Edo State, Nigeria.
Located in the heart of Benin City, its value is underscored by its headquarters location at the Oba Ovoramwen Square, colloquially known as ‘Ring Road,’ the bustling epicenter of the city.
This area serves as the core for different governmental institutions and cultural landmarks, including the Palace of the Benin Monarch, the Edo State House of Assembly, the Government House, the National Museum, the Igun Bronze Guild, Igbesamwan wood carvers, and even the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The prominence of Oredo is deeply rooted in its historical and strategic importance. Serving as the headquarters of the ancient Benin Kingdom, it is the oldest among the local councils.
Its geographical centrality is highlighted by the convergence of the nine gates leading to the heart of the ancient kingdom.
While Oredo may not be classified among the oil-rich local government areas of the state, its wealth emanates from diverse revenue streams not readily available in other areas.
These include the operation of three cemeteries, the presence of over five major markets, numerous lock-up stores, vibrant commercial activities including transportation services, and a bustling informal sector comprising hawkers and street vendors.
The economic vitality of Oredo is complemented by its robust social fabric. The area brags a rich cultural heritage, with notable residents including the revered Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, and prominent figures like Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama Of Benin Kingdom.
With an area spanning 249 square kilometers and a population of approximately 374,671 as per the 2006 census, Oredo Local Government Area is not only a thriving economic hub but also a vibrant cultural and historical heart within Edo State.
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