Okpokwu

Okpokwu local government area is domiciled in Benue state, North-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The headquarters of the LGA are in the town of Okpoga with the LGA sharing borders with the Ohimini, Ogbadigbo, Ado, and Otukpo LGAs and with parts of Enugu and Kogi states. Several towns and villages make up Okpokwu LGA with the area mostly populated by members of the Idoma ethnc group. The Idoma language is widely spoken in the LGA while the religions of Christianity and Islam are practiced in the area. Notable landmarks in Okpokwu LGA include the Benue state Polytechnic, Ugbokolo.

GEOGRAPHY OF OKPOKWU

Okpokwu LGA occupies a total area of 731 square kilometres and has an average temperature of 29 degrees centigrade. The LGA witnesses two distinct seasons which are the dry and the rainy seasons. The popular River Okpokwu from which the LGA derives its name flows through the LGA while the area has an average wind speed of 11 km/h.

ECONOMY OF OKPOKWU

Agriculture is the main source of livelihood for most inhabitants of Okpokwu LGA with the area known for the cultivation of several crops which include yam, citrus fruits, beniseed, soybeans, and cassava. Trade also flourishes in the LGA with the area hosting several markets such as the Aidogodo and Ukwo markets where a variety of commodities are bought and sold. Other important economic activities engaged in by the people of Okpokwu LGA include palm wine tapping, pottery, and food processing.

HISTORY OF OKPOKWU

Okpokwu LGA was created in the year 1976 from the defunct Idoma Native Authority.