Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State in northeastern Nigeria, is a growing city with diverse ethnic and religious groups, including Jukun, Mumuye, Fulani, and Hausa.
Its economy is primarily agrarian, focusing on farming and livestock, while education plays a vital role with institutions like Taraba State University. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Jalingo also serves as a gateway to natural attractions such as Gashaka-Gumti National Park. As the state’s political and administrative center, it has seen infrastructure improvements but still faces challenges like power and water access.
Emmanuel Bello itemizes 10 interesting facts about Jalingo. Enjoy:
There is an airport called Danbaba Suntai Airport that has three flights to and fro per week from Abuja. Overland airways flies on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
New hotels such as Blue Nile, Grand Shield, and Fast track extentions have close to a 3- star hotel status. Their bars, lounges, and clubs offer a variety of experiences to fun lovers.
Jalingo is a university city with the Prestigious Taraba State University (TSU) located at the popular ATC. Here, the university community makes the place a hub for learning and commerce of sort.
The crime rate is at its lowest ebb here. Businesses are safe, even as residents enjoy a measure of tranquility in Nigeria’s nagging security challenges.
It is very close to Yola, the Adamawa state capital, for those who wish to fly into Yola and make a beehive for Jalingo.
Restaurants such as Debbie Classic and Sisfen are shaping up the culinary profile of the capital with a collection of tasty meals. The entire town is dotted with food vendors, shops, and snacks. C2C bakery and NATU are championing the fast food genre.
From Jalingo to the tourist attractions of the Mambilla Plateau is some hours drive on very good roads. Mambilla Plateau is easily the finest place to be in Nigeria.
The city houses the majestic edifice of the Emir of Muri palace. It is an attraction on its own for visitors who wish to move around the city to feed their eyes.
A beautiful flyover criss crosses the city. At nights, the street lights illumed the metropolis.
The people are hospitable, eager to please visitors, and always ready with a smile.
Emmanuel Bello is the Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications to the Taraba State Governor.
