- Government Organisation
- Taraba, Nigeria

NYSC Orientation Camp Taraba State
The NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Taraba State is located on Sibre Airport Road, Jalingo, the state capital. This central location makes it easily accessible for NYSC members arriving from different parts of Nigeria. For air travelers, Jalingo Airport serves as the primary gateway to the state, providing direct flights to and from various destinations across the country.
The airport’s proximity to the NYSC camp ensures a convenient transition for incoming corps members. Additionally, the state is well-connected by road, with buses frequently traveling to Jalingo from neighboring states and major cities across Nigeria.
Overview of Taraba State
Taraba State is situated in the northeastern geopolitical zone of Nigeria and was created from the defunct Gongola State on August 27, 1991. The state capital, Jalingo, serves as the administrative and commercial hub of the region. Taraba is bordered by six states: Bauchi and Gombe to the north, Adamawa to the east, Benue and Nasarawa to the west, and Plateau to the northwest.
To the south, it shares an international boundary with the Republic of Cameroon, making it a strategic location for cross-border trade and cultural exchange. The state is divided into 16 Local Government Areas, each with its own unique cultural and geographical features.
Historical Background
Taraba State has a rich and diverse history, shaped by the various ethnic groups that inhabit the region. The area now known as Taraba has been home to ancient kingdoms and empires, including the Jukun Kingdom, which played a significant role in the history of the Middle Belt region.
The creation of Taraba State in 1991 was part of a broader effort by the Nigerian government to bring governance closer to the people, fostering development and ensuring that the diverse communities within the state have a voice in the country’s political landscape.
People, Culture, and Traditions
Taraba State is one of the most culturally diverse states in Nigeria, with close to eighty indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. Some of the major ethnic groups include the Fulani, Mumuye, Jukun, Jango, Kuteb, Chamba, and Mambilla.
This diversity is reflected in the state’s vibrant cultural landscape, where traditional festivals, music, dance, and crafts play an integral role in the daily lives of the people.
Agriculture is the mainstay of Taraba’s economy, with the majority of the population engaged in farming. The state’s fertile land supports the cultivation of a variety of crops, including maize, rice, yams, millet, and cassava. In addition to farming, other economic activities such as fishing, pottery, cloth weaving, dyeing, mat making, woodcarving, embroidery, and blacksmithing are also prevalent.
These traditional crafts are not only important sources of income but also serve as a means of preserving the rich cultural heritage of the various ethnic groups in the state.
Geography and Climate
Taraba State enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically lasts from April to October, with August and September being the wettest months. During this period, the state experiences heavy rainfall, which supports the lush vegetation and agricultural activities in the region.
The dry season, on the other hand, lasts from November to March, with December and January being the driest months. During these months, the relative humidity can drop to as low as 15%, creating a dry and arid environment.
The average annual temperature around Jalingo, the state capital, is about 28°C, with maximum temperatures ranging from 30°C to 39.4°C. The state’s diverse topography includes lowland plains, river valleys, and highland areas, most notably the Mambilla Plateau, which is the highest point in Nigeria at 1,830 meters above sea level.
This unique geographical feature contributes to the state’s varied climate, with cooler temperatures and a different weather pattern on the plateau compared to the lowland areas.
Notable Towns and Cities
Taraba State is home to several important towns and cities, each with its own distinct character and significance:
- Jalingo: The capital city and administrative center of Taraba State, Jalingo is a bustling urban area that serves as the political and economic hub of the state.
- Takum: A major town known for its agricultural activities and as a center for trade and commerce in the southwestern part of the state.
- Wukari: Historically significant as the seat of the ancient Jukun Kingdom, Wukari is a cultural center with deep-rooted traditions.
- Zing: A town known for its vibrant markets and traditional crafts, Zing is an important local trade hub.
- Sardauna: Located on the Mambilla Plateau, Sardauna is known for its stunning landscapes and cool climate, making it a popular destination for tourists.
- Bali, Yono, Kurmi, Ibi, and Gashaka: These towns are important centers of agriculture, trade, and culture, each contributing to the state’s economy and cultural diversity.
Tourist Attractions and Cultural Sites
Taraba State boasts several notable tourist attractions and cultural sites that draw visitors from within Nigeria and beyond:
- Mambilla Plateau: Considered the highest point in Nigeria, the Mambilla Plateau stands at 1,830 meters above sea level. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cool climate, and tea plantations. The plateau is a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience its natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
- Gashaka-Gumti Game Reserve: As Nigeria’s largest national park, Gashaka-Gumti Game Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of animal species, including elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, and numerous bird species. It also features diverse ecosystems, ranging from savannah grasslands to dense forests.
- Ngel-Nyaki Forest Reserve: Located on the Mambilla Plateau, this forest reserve is an important conservation area, home to rare and endangered plant and animal species. The reserve is also a key site for scientific research and ecological studies.
- Donga River Basin: This river basin is a vital water source for the surrounding communities and supports a variety of agricultural activities. The scenic beauty of the river and its surroundings makes it an attractive spot for picnics and nature walks.
Education and Institutions
Taraba State is home to several institutions of higher learning that contribute to the educational development of the region:
- Taraba State University: Located in Jalingo, this university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study.
- Federal University, Wukari: A federal institution located in Wukari, it is known for its academic excellence and research contributions.
- Kwararafa University: Also located in Wukari, Kwararafa University is a private institution that provides quality education in a variety of disciplines.
These institutions play a crucial role in shaping the future of the state’s youth and contribute to the overall development of Taraba.
Interesting Fact
The Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State is considered the highest point in Nigeria, standing at 1,830 meters above sea level. This elevated region is not only a natural wonder but also a significant agricultural area, known for its tea plantations and temperate climate. The plateau’s unique geography and climate make it one of the most scenic and biologically diverse regions in the country.
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