Edo State
Edo is a state in Nigeria located in the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. As of 2024, the state was ranked as the 20th most populous state (5,250,000) in Nigeria. In 2021, the projected population was approximately 4,777,000. Edo State is the 21st largest state by landmass in Nigeria. The state's capital, Benin City, is the fourth largest city in Nigeria and the centre of the country's rubber industry. Created in 1991 from the former Bendel State, it is also known as the heartbeat of the nation. Edo State borders Kogi State to the north for 133 km and across the Niger River for 81 km to the northeast, Anambra State to the east for about four km across the Niger River, Delta State to the southeast and south for 350 km (218 miles), and Ondo State to the west.
The modern borders of Edo State encompass regions that were formerly the site of various empires and kingdoms of the second dynasty formed in the 11th century AD, the Benin Empire. The ancient city of Edo, the site of modern-day Benin City, was home to some of the largest earthworks in the world. In 1897, the British Empire conducted a punitive expedition and invasion of the region, destroying most of the ancient city of Edo and incorporating the territory into what would become the Southern Nigeria Protectorate.
Edo State is a diverse state that is predominantly inhabited by the Edoid people, including the Edo (or Bini), Esan, Ora, Akoko-Edo, Owan and Afemai people and Igala people among others. The most common Edoid language spoken is the Edo language, which is commonly spoken in Benin City. Christianity is one of the dominant religions in Edo South. It was first introduced to the region by Portuguese missionaries during the 15th century. Islam, on the contrary, is the dominant religion in Edo North and traditional religions are also practised across these Senatorial districts of the State.
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