The State is lying on 4°45′N 6°50′E with total area of 11,077 km2. Rivers State is bounded on the South by the Atlantic Ocean, to the North by Imo, Abia and Anambra States, to the East by Akwa Ibom State and to the West by Bayelsa and Delta states.
Economic Profile
Agriculture, which includes fishing, is the main occupation of the people of Rivers State. However, it is in the production of oil and gas that Rivers State is most famous. Rivers State has maintained its importance as a leading supplier of wealth to the nation for centuries. In 2007, the state ranked 2nd nationwide with a gross domestic product (GDP) of $21.07 billion and a per capital income of $3,965. The state is famous for its vast reserves of crude oil and natural gas. It was perhaps the richest and most important section of the African zone of the British Empire. Rivers State has two major oil refineries, two major seaports, airports, and various industrial estates spread across the land. More than 60% of the country’s output of crude oil is produced in the state. Other natural resources found within its boundaries are silica sand, glass sand and clay.
Occupation
Agriculture, which includes fishing, is the main occupation of the people of Rivers State. However, it is in the production of oil and gas that Rivers State is most famous.
CAPITAL
Port-Harcourt
Created
August 8, 1972
Major Cities
Port-Harcourt, Abuloma, Boibu-Oromerizemgbu, Elekohia, Okuru, Orada Diobu, Rumuokoro
It is home to many indigenous ethnic groups: Ikwerre, Ibani, Opobo, Eleme, Okrika, and Kalabari, Etche, Ogba, Ogoni, Engenni and others. The people from Rivers State are known as “Riverians”.
