Plateau State facts for kids

Plateau is one of the 36 states in Nigeria. Its capital city is Jos. The state is known for its beautiful landscapes, including hills and rock formations. It is often called "Home of Peace and Tourism" because of its calm environment and many interesting places to visit.

Geography and Climate

Plateau State is located in the central part of Nigeria. It gets its name from the Jos Plateau, a large area of high land. This plateau makes the state cooler than many other parts of Nigeria. The average temperature is around 18 to 22 degrees Celsius (64 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit).

Landscapes and Rivers

The state has many hills, mountains, and unique rock formations. Some famous ones include the Shere Hills and the Riyom Rock. Several rivers flow through Plateau State, like the Kaduna River and the Gongola River. These rivers help with farming and provide water for the people.

Weather Patterns

Plateau State has two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season usually lasts from April to October. The dry season is from November to March. The cooler climate makes it a good place for growing certain crops.

History of Plateau State

Plateau State was created on 3 February 1976. It was formed from the former Benue-Plateau State. The state's history is rich with different cultures and traditions. The name "Plateau" comes from the high land that covers much of the state.

Early Settlements

Before it became a state, the area was home to many different groups of people. They lived in small communities and had their own ways of life. Over time, these communities grew and developed.

People and Culture

Plateau State is home to many different ethnic groups. Some of the major groups include the Berom, Angas, Ngas, Goemai, Mwaghavul, and Tarok. Each group has its own language, traditions, and customs.

Languages and Traditions

While English is the official language, many local languages are spoken across the state. The people of Plateau State are known for their rich cultural heritage. They celebrate many festivals with music, dance, and colorful costumes. These festivals often mark harvests, important events, or traditional ceremonies.

Arts and Crafts

The people of Plateau State are also skilled in arts and crafts. They make beautiful pottery, woven fabrics, and carvings. These items often reflect their culture and daily lives.

Economy and Resources

The economy of Plateau State is mainly based on farming, mining, and tourism. Many people work in these areas to support their families.

Agriculture

Farming is a very important activity in Plateau State. The fertile land and cool climate are good for growing many crops. Farmers grow crops like potatoes, maize (corn), rice, and yams. The state is especially known for its potato production.

Mining

Plateau State is rich in minerals. Tin mining was once a very big industry here. Other minerals found in the state include columbite, tantalite, and barytes. Mining has played a big part in the state's economy for many years.

Tourism

Plateau State has many tourist attractions. These include natural sites like waterfalls, hills, and wildlife parks. The cool weather also makes it a popular place for visitors.

Interesting Places to Visit

Plateau State offers many exciting places for tourists and locals to explore.

Jos Wildlife Park

The Jos Wildlife Park is a large park where you can see many different animals. It is home to lions, elephants, monkeys, and many types of birds. It is a great place for families to learn about wildlife and enjoy nature.

Assop Falls

Assop Falls is a beautiful waterfall located along the Jos-Kagoro road. The water cascades down rocky cliffs, creating a stunning view. It's a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the natural beauty.

Kurra Falls

Kurra Falls is another scenic waterfall in the state. It is also a site for a hydroelectric power station, which generates electricity for the area.

Riyom Rock

Riyom Rock is a famous rock formation that looks like a stack of rocks balanced on top of each other. It is a natural wonder and a popular landmark in the state.

Images for kids

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  Jos Plateau State Terminus market

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  Elephant at Jos Wildlife Park

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  Topaz from the Jos Plateau in Plateau State

See also

In Spanish: Estado de Plateau para niños