
Niger State (The Power State), is a state in North Western Nigeria and the largest state in the country. The state capital is Minna, and other major cities are Bida, Kontagora, and Suleja. It was formed in 1976 when the then North-Western State was bifurcated into Niger State and Sokoto State. Minna being the capital of Niger state and also the city with the most economic activities. Niger state has a population of 3,950,249 based on 2006 national census. Two of Nigeria's major hydroelectric power stations: the Kainji Dam and the Shiroro Dam, are located in Niger State hence the name-the power state.