Lafia is a traditional emirate and a city in Nigeria’s North Central region. It is the capital and largest city of Nasarawa State. Lafia, also known as Lafian bare-bari, is the capital city of Nasarawa State, central Nigeria. Founded by Muhammadu Dunama in late 17th century on the site of a Koro (Migili) village. The indigenous Koro migrated southwards to Agyaragu, Anise etc. The town now has its 17th Emir in the person of Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I JSC rtd. Lafia became the capital of a prominent local chiefdom in the late 19th century. During the rule of Mohamman Agwai (1881–1903), the Lafia market became one of the most important in the Benue Valley, and a trade route was opened to Loko (56 mi [90 km] southwest), a Benue River port. In 1903, the British, who controlled Northern Nigeria recognized Chief Musa as Lafia’s first emir. The emirate formed the major part of the Lafia Division of Benue province. In 1967, the town became part of Benue-Plateau state, and in 1976, it was allocated to Plateau state. Lafia is populated mainly by the Eggon, Alago, Kanuri, Aho and Koro. It also has large populations of Igbo, Hausa, Mwaghavul settlers amongst other tribes. This is due to the hospitable nature of the indigenes and has made the city a miniature Nigeria.

His Royal Highness Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I JSC Rtd Is the current and 17th Emir Of Lafia Also state council of traditional rulers and chiefs of Nassarawa. He was born 22 May 1956 is a retired Nigerian jurist who presides as the 17th Emir of Lafia, a customary emirate in Nigeria. He succeeded the 16th emir, Isa Mustapha Agwai (r. 1974– 2019), on 26 March 2019. Bage was born in Lafia, in Nigeria’s Nassarawa State. He attended the local Dunoma Primary School before going to the government secondary school in Lafia, 1970–1974. His initial legal training was at the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, where he obtained a diploma in law in 1977. He continued his legal education with an LLB Honours degree in 1980, before attending the Nigerian Law School Lagos. He was called to the bar in 1981

TRADE, CULTURE AND TOURISM

lafia is Located in Nasarawa in the North-Central region of Nigeria, bordered to the West by the Federal Capital Territory, the North by Kaduna, the South by Benue and Kogi, and to the East by Plateau and Taraba states. The State is nicknamed “Home of Solid Minerals” because of its huge deposits of mineral resources

Opportunities for investment exist in:

Agribusiness

Light Manufacturing

Healthcare

Tourism

Energy

Mining

Immerse yourself in Lafia’s culture by exploring the Lafia Emir’s Palace, a royal residence

reflecting the traditional Hausa architecture. The palace offers a glimpse into the city’s

history and stunning cultural artifacts. Nature enthusiasts should not miss the awe-inspiring Keana Salt Village. Located on the banks of Lake Saltare, this unique village showcases traditional salt mining practices, allowing you to witness the salt extraction process firsthand.

For a serene escape, the Farin Ruwa Waterfall beckons with its striking beauty. Cascading

from a height of over 150 meters, this enchanting waterfall provides a perfect setting for

picnics and relaxation amidst nature’s splendor.

Don’t forget to visit the Lafia Township Stadium, where you can witness thrilling sports

events and immerse yourself in the local sports culture of Nigeria.