Jigawa State facts for kids
Jigawa is one of the 36 states in Nigeria, a country in West Africa. Its capital city is Dutse. Jigawa State was created on August 27, 1991, from part of the former Kano State.
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Where is Jigawa State?
Jigawa State is located in the northwestern part of Nigeria. It shares borders with several other Nigerian states, including Kano State to the south and west, Bauchi State to the east, and Yobe State to the northeast. It also shares an international border with the Republic of Niger to the north.
How Big is Jigawa?
Jigawa State covers a land area of about 23,154 square kilometers (about 8,940 square miles). This makes it one of the larger states in Nigeria by land size.
People and Culture
The main ethnic groups living in Jigawa State are the Hausa and Fulani. These groups have rich cultural traditions, including music, dance, and traditional crafts. Most people in Jigawa State practice Islam.
What Languages are Spoken?
The main language spoken in Jigawa State is Hausa. Many people also speak Fulfulde, the language of the Fulani people. English is the official language of Nigeria and is used in government and education.
Economy and Resources
The economy of Jigawa State is mostly based on agriculture. Many people are farmers.
What Do Farmers Grow?
Farmers in Jigawa State grow a variety of crops. These include food crops like millet, sorghum, rice, and maize (corn). They also grow cash crops such as groundnuts, sesame, and gum arabic.
Other Economic Activities
Besides farming, other economic activities in Jigawa include livestock rearing (raising animals like cattle, goats, and sheep) and fishing, especially in areas with rivers and ponds. There are also small businesses and trading activities.
Government and Administration
Like other states in Nigeria, Jigawa State has its own government. It is led by a governor, who is the chief executive. The state also has a House of Assembly, which makes laws for the state.
How is the State Divided?
For easier administration, Jigawa State is divided into 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs). These local governments help manage affairs at the community level.
Education and Health
Jigawa State has various schools, from primary to tertiary institutions. The state government works to improve access to education for its young people. There are also hospitals and health centers to provide medical care to the residents.
Climate and Environment
Jigawa State has a tropical savanna climate. This means it has a wet season and a dry season.
What is the Weather Like?
The wet season usually lasts from May to September, bringing rainfall. The dry season, from October to April, is hot and dusty, especially when the Harmattan wind blows from the Sahara Desert.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The state is home to several rivers and seasonal streams, which are important for farming and providing water for communities.
See also
In Spanish: Estado de Jigawa para niños
