Taraba State: A Paradise of Natural Wonders And Cultural Heritage

Nestled in the northeast region of Nigeria, Taraba State, often referred to as "Nature's Gift to the Nation", beckons with its diverse cultural tapestry, geographical wonders, and rich historical heritage. Named after the Taraba River that meanders through its southern expanse, the State, with headquarters in Jalingo, is a living mosaic of ethnic groups and languages that harmoniously coexist.

The history of Taraba State dates back to August 27, 1991, when it was carved out of the former Gongola State by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida. Since then, the State has grown and flourished, becoming a hub of economic and cultural activities.

Geographically, Taraba State is a masterpiece of nature's design. It shares borders with Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, and Adamawa States. It also shares orders with the North West Region of Cameroon. Taraba State is crisscrossed by the Benue, Donga, Taraba, and Ibi rivers, which originate from the Cameroonian mountains, carving their paths through the land, and uniting with the mighty River Niger.

The climate of Taraba State is characterized by a tropical savanna climate, with an average temperature of 33°C. However, the State experiences a high level of cold in January and increased rainfall in August. The  rainfall percentage in Taraba state is 40.35 per cent, accompanied by a relative humidity of 54.98 per cent. March tends to be particularly warm, with temperatures reaching 40.44°C, and an average wind speed of 8.84km/h. The lush greenery and fertile soil make it an ideal agricultural region, supporting the cultivation of various crops and the rearing of livestock.

Within the fabric of Taraba State lies a commitment to well-being, underscored by a network of hospitals and healthcare centres that dot the landscape. These centres stand as pillars of care, catering to the health needs of the State's residents. Among the notable health establishments in the State, we have Courage Hospital,

Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Gateway Hospital,

General Hospital, Bali

Sauki Hospital and Maternity, Taraba Specialist Hospital, Totus Hospital and Maternity,

Albert Healthcare Company, Kwararafa Hospital and Maternity, Federal Polythecnic, Bali Medical Centre,

First Referral Hospital, and Biyama Hospital.

These institutions, each with their unique identity and role, weave a safety net of healthcare across Taraba State. 

In the educational realm, Taraba shines with institutions like Federal University Wukari, Taraba State University Jalingo, and Kwararafa University Wukari, which help to empower the youth with knowledge and skills.

Embodying a tapestry of languages and local governance, Taraba State is a cultural microcosm within Nigeria. With its sixteen Local Government Areas (LGAs), each under the governance of elected chairmen, the State's administrative structure is a blend of representation and grassroots leadership. The LGAs that constitute Taraba include Ardo Kola,

Bali, Donga, Gashaka, Gassol, Ibi, Jalingo,  Karim Lamido, Kurmi,

Lau, Sardauna, Takum, Ussa, Wukari, Yorro, Zing.

As diverse, and as its administrative divisions are, Taraba's linguistic landscape is equally rich. A symphony of languages weaves through the State's fabric, with each LGA embracing its own linguistic composition. The languages spoken across Taraba, categorized by LGA, include the following:

Ardo Kola - Fulfulde, Mumuye, Jibu, Jukun and Kona; Bali - Fulfulde, Ichen, Fam, Gbaya, Northwest; Jibu, Jukun Takum, Kam, Mumuye, Ndoola, Chamba Dakka, Chamba Leko, and Tiv; Donga - Ichen, Ekpan, Chamba, Leko, Tiv; Gashaka - Fulfulde, Chamba Daka; Yamba, and Tiv. Gassol - Fulfulde, Wapan, and Tiv. lbi -  Duguri; Dza, Tiv, Fulfulde, Wanu Jalingo,  Fulfulde, Mumuye; Jibu or Jukun, and Kona. Karim Lamido -  Fulfulde, Dadiya; Dza; Jiba; Jiru; Kodei; Kulung; Kyak, Laka, Munga Lelau, Loo, Mághdì, Mak, Munga Doso, Mumuye, Nyam,  Pangseng, Wurkun-Anphandi, Shoo-Minda-Nye, Yandang, Hõne, Kwa, and Pero. 

Others are Kurmi - Ndola, Ichen, and Tigun. Lau - Fulfulde, Dza, Loo, Yandang, and Laka. Sardauna -  Fulfulde, Áncá, Batu, Buru, Fum, Lamnso', Lidzonka, Limbum, Mambila, Mbembe, Tigon, Mbongno, Mvanip, Nde-Gbite, Ndoola, Ndunda, Nshi, Somyev, Viti, Vute, Yamba, and Kaka. Takum - Mashi, Bete, Ichen, and Jukun. Takum - Kapya, Kpan, Kpati, Kuteb, Lufu,  Acha, Tiv, and Yukuben. Ussa - Kuteb. Wukari - Jukun, Ichen, Ekpan, Kpati, Kulung, Tarok, Tiv, and Wapan. Yorro - Mumuye, and Fulfulde. Zing - Mumuye, Nyong, Rang, and Yandang.

Beyond these, Taraba resonates with languages like Akum, Bukwen, Esimbi, Fali of Baissa, Jiba, Njerep, Tha, Yandang, Yotti, and Ywom. 

The foundation of Taraba's economy rests on agriculture, with the State proudly cultivating cash crops like coffee, tea, groundnuts, and cotton, alongside staples such as maize, rice, sorghum, cassava, and yam. Livestock farming, traditional craftsmanship, fishing, and blacksmithing further enrich the State's cultural heritage and economic vigor.

Taraba's abundant natural resources encompass minerals like barytes, bauxites, and limestone, as well as a spectrum of agro-raw materials ranging from maize to timber. 

The State's commitment to tourism shines a spotlight on attractions such as the Mambilla Tourist Centre, Gashaka Gumpti National Park, and Gashaka game reserve, offering a glimpse into both its natural allure and cultural legacy. Additionally, the State hosts several festivals, including the Karimjo Abedahh festival and the Nwunyu fishing festival in Ibi, which take place annually in April. These festivals feature exciting activities like canoe racing, swimming competitions, and cultural dances. 

In Taraba state, there are several breathtaking sights and attractions that showcase the natural beauty of the region. The Gashaka-Gumpti National Park offers stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, while the Mambilla Plateau provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Donga River and Cijin Lake are picturesque waterways that add to the charm of the State. Also, the Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve, created in 2012, is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Taraba State is also known for its vibrant cultural heritage, as seen in the traditional dancers who captivate audiences with their performances. The State has been molded by prominent individuals who have left their mark beyond its borders. From politicians to leaders, their roles have shaped the State. These include Aisha Alhassan, a former Minister and Senator; Emmanuel Bwacha, former Senator for Southern Taraba; TY Danjuma, a soldier and politician. TY was Nigerian Chief of Army Staff  from 1975 - 1979 and Minister of Defence from 1999-2003; David Jimkuta, the current Senator for Southern Taraba; Anna Darius Ishaku, Barrister and Wife of former Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku; Darius Ishaku, former Governor; and Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, Guiding the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja.

Others are Agbu Kefas, current Taraba State Governor, who is shaping policies and the future of the State; Shuaibu Isa Lau, current Senator of Taraba North;

Saleh Mamman, former Minister of Power; Mahmud Mohammed, former Chief Justice of Nigeria; Jolly Nyame, former Governor of Taraba State. The impact of his governance is noteworthy; Danbaba Suntai, former Governor and pharmacist; Abbas Njidda Tafida, current Emir of Muri; and Yusuf Abubakar Yusuf, former Senator representing Central Taraba.

The State's political landscape finds its rhythm through a governor elected by the people, collaborating in synergy with the State's legislative body. In essence, Taraba State, aptly coined "Nature's Gift to the Nation," epitomizes Nigeria's essence. A unique fusion of history, geography, culture, and untapped potential, Taraba stands as a beacon of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature's treasures. It beckons explorers, historians, and adventurers to uncover and embrace its radiant splendor.