Edo State is an inland state in central southern Nigeria. Its capital is Benin City. It was formed in 1991 by the split of Bendel State into Edo and Delta State.

Edo state is home to several ethnicities, among them the Bini, Esan and Afemai. The state is renowned for its proficiency in sports and athletics and a culture of intellectual edification and scholastic excellence. The University of Benin, one of Nigeria's prominent Universities is located in Edo State, as are other institutions of higher learning.

Location

Edo State shares boundaries with Delta on the South, Ondo on the West, Kogi on the North-East.

The main towns in the state are Benin, capital of the ancient Benin kingdom which is also the state capital, Ubiaja, Auchi, Ekpoma and Uromi.

History

Edo State came into being on August 27, 1991 when what was known as Bendel State split into two in a state creation exercise that also led to the birth of Delta State.

Agriculture

Agriculture is the predominant occupation of people in this State. The major cash crops produced are rubber, cocoa and palm produce. In addition, the State produces such crops as yams, cassava; rice, plantains, guinea-corn, and assorted types of fruits and vegetables

Mineral Resources

Edo State is endowed with abundant natural resources. The principal mineral resources include crude oil, natural gas, clay chalk, marbles and limestone

Education

The State has such educational institutions as the University of Benin, Edo State University, Auchi Polytechnic among others. It is known for its educational attainments as it is the home of many distinguished scholars and is one of the highest producers of graduates in the country.

Tourism

It has such tourist attractions as Oba's Palace in Benin City, Ramat Park also in Benin, Sakpoba Holiday Resort etc.

People

The State is made up of the following ethnic groups: Edo, Esan, Etsako, Owan and Akoko Edo.

Local Government Areas

Edo Dtate has 14 local government areas namely: Akoko-Edo, Etsako East, Esan South-East, Oredo, Orhiommwon, Ovia North East, Ovia South, Owan East, Owan West and Uhunmwode.

Links

www.edostateofnigeria.net, Benson Idahosa University, Benin (www.idadosauniversity.com), Igbinedion University, Okada(www.igbinedion.com)

Schools on The Web:
Benson Idahosa University, Benin (www.idadosauniversity.com), Igbinedion University, Okada(www.igbinedion.com)

Contact

State Liason Office: Lagos:
Edo House,
Plot 1225, Ahmadu Bello Way,
Victoria Island, Lagos.
Tel: 01-2619772

Abuja:
215/2 Dodoma Close, Zone 6, Wuse District Abuja