List of 16 LGAs in Ekiti and their headquarters

Ekiti State has 16 LGAs (Local Government Areas), namely:

  1. Ado-Ekiti
  2. Efon
  3. Ekiti East
  4. Ekiti South /West
  5. Ekiti West 
  6. Emure
  7. Ayekire
  8. Ido/Osi
  9. Ijero 
  10. Ikere
  11. Ikole
  12. Ilejemeje
  13. Irepodun/Ifelodun
  14. Ise/Orun
  15. Moba
  16. Oye

> View the 22 LCDAs in Ekiti State and their headquarters

LGAs in Ekiti State: Complete view with Key Facts


Explore the 16 LGAs in Ekiti State with this detailed guide. Learn about their history, importance, and socio-economic roles in Nigeria’s southwest region.


Introduction to Ekiti State

Ekiti State, carved out of the old Ondo State in October 1996, stands as one of Nigeria’s 36 federating units. Located in the southwestern part of the country, Ekiti is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its commitment to education and grassroots governance, Ekiti has made remarkable strides in community-led development.

Named after the Ekiti people who are predominantly of Yoruba origin, the state thrives on tradition, unity, and a shared vision for progress. Understanding the Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ekiti State provides valuable insight into how the state is managed and how services are delivered to its residents.


Administrative Structure in Nigeria

Local Government as a Tier of Governance

Nigeria operates a three-tier system of government: Federal, State, and Local Government. The Local Government Area (LGA) is the third tier and serves as the closest form of administration to the grassroots.

Functions of LGAs

LGAs in Nigeria are responsible for several essential functions:

  • Maintenance of local roads and infrastructure
  • Primary education management
  • Health services at the community level
  • Sanitation and waste management
  • Revenue collection (markets, motor parks, etc.)
  • Local security and community development

Overview of Local Government System in Ekiti

Ekiti State has 16 LGAs, each acting as a mini-government with elected officials and administrative bodies. These LGAs are vital for local decision-making, project implementation, and the provision of social services. They span both rural and urban regions, addressing the diverse needs of the population.


Full List of the 16 LGAs in Ekiti State

Below is a detailed table showing the names of all LGAs in Ekiti State and their administrative headquarters:

LGA NameHeadquarters
Ado-EkitiAdo-Ekiti
IkereIkere-Ekiti
OyeOye-Ekiti
IjeroIjero-Ekiti
Irepodun/IfelodunIgede-Ekiti
Ekiti EastOmuo-Ekiti
Ekiti WestAramoko-Ekiti
Ido/OsiIdo-Ekiti
MobaOtun-Ekiti
IkoleIkole-Ekiti
Gbonyin (Aiyekire)Ode-Ekiti
EmureEmure-Ekiti
Ise/OrunIse-Ekiti
EfonEfon-Alaaye
Ekiti SouthwestIlawe-Ekiti
IlejemejeIye-Ekiti

Ado-Ekiti LGA

Ado-Ekiti is the capital city and administrative hub of Ekiti State. It is not only the most populous LGA in the state but also the economic and political center.

  • Major Towns: Ado-Ekiti, Agric Olope, Odo Ado
  • Economic Activities: Trading, banking, education, hospitality
  • Institutions: Ekiti State University, Federal Teaching Hospital

Ikere LGA

Ikere is the second-largest LGA and known for its vibrant cultural festivals and bustling marketplaces.

  • Key Features: Proximity to the state capital, robust artisanal sector
  • Cultural Attractions: Ikere Day, masquerade festivals

Oye LGA

This LGA is home to the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), giving it an academic flavor and a youthful population.

  • Main Towns: Oye, Ilupeju, Ayegbaju
  • Industries: Education, small-scale manufacturing

Ido/Osi LGA

One of the most politically active LGAs in Ekiti, Ido/Osi combines traditional leadership with modern governance.

  • Towns: Ido-Ekiti, Usi, Ifaki
  • Notable Traits: Strong cultural identity, robust cooperative societies

Ekiti West LGA

With its headquarters in Aramoko, this LGA is known for its infrastructural development and educational institutions.

  • Special Features: Technical colleges, community health centers

Ekiti East LGA

Located in the eastern axis of the state, Ekiti East is agriculturally inclined and culturally rich.

  • Farming Products: Cassava, yam, plantain
  • Key Settlement: Omuo-Ekiti

Gbonyin (Aiyekire) LGA

Gbonyin LGA is synonymous with palm oil and local crafts. Its rural character does not hinder its economic relevance.

  • Major Economic Activities: Agriculture, pottery, and palm produce

Emure LGA

A traditionally revered town, Emure-Ekiti is famous for its ancient monarchy and cultural pride.

  • Historical Sites: Emure palace, age-old shrines

Ise/Orun LGA

Formed by two major communities, Ise and Orun, this LGA is known for indigenous blacksmithing and carving.

  • Cultural Richness: Traditional tools and art

Ijero LGA

One of the oldest LGAs in Ekiti, Ijero is noted for its mineral deposits and fertile farmlands.

  • Minerals: Quartz, granite
  • Farming Activities: Cocoa, maize

Moba LGA

Moba is deeply religious and traditional. Its people are known for upholding ancestral customs.

  • Religious Practices: Christianity, Islam, traditional beliefs
  • Social Life: Community festivals, church conventions

Ikole LGA

Strategically located, Ikole serves as a gateway to Kogi State. It’s known for its vibrant political scene.

  • Topography: Rolling hills, rivers
  • Economy: Trade and timber

Irepodun/Ifelodun LGA

This LGA includes Igede-Ekiti and surrounding towns. It is focused on public service delivery and youth programs.

  • Institutions: Civic centers, ICT hubs

Efon LGA

With its headquarters at Efon-Alaaye, this mountainous region is blessed with tourism potential and natural beauty.

  • Scenery: Rocky outcrops, cold weather
  • Cultural Value: Ancient Ekiti war heritage

Ekiti Southwest LGA

Known for large-scale yam farming and palm kernel production, this LGA plays a key role in food supply chains.

  • Programs: Youth in Agriculture, Women Empowerment Schemes

List of 16 LGAs in Ekiti and their headquarters
Iworoko mountain, Ekiti State

Demographic and Socio-Economic Data

According to recent statistics:

  • Total Population: Over 2.7 million
  • Literacy Rate: Among the highest in Nigeria
  • Occupation: Farming, teaching, trading, civil service

Challenges Facing LGAs in Ekiti State

While LGAs are crucial for development, they face hurdles such as:

  • Inadequate funding and mismanagement
  • Poor road infrastructure
  • Lack of modern health facilities
  • Brain drain due to youth migration
  • Limited job opportunities

Developmental Projects Across LGAs

Despite challenges, several developmental projects are ongoing:

  • Road Rehabilitation: Ado-Iyin, Aramoko-Ijero highways
  • Healthcare: Primary Health Centers (PHCs) upgrades
  • Education: School renovations and teacher trainings
  • Partnerships: World Bank and UNDP initiatives

The Future of Local Governance in Ekiti

With increasing digitalization and civic awareness, the future of LGAs in Ekiti State looks promising. There’s potential for:

  • E-governance adoption
  • Youth engagement through digital tools
  • Smart agriculture for economic transformation
  • Enhanced transparency and accountability

FAQs on LGAs in Ekiti State

Q1: What are the names of the LGAs in Ekiti State?
A1: Ekiti has 16 LGAs, including Ado, Ikere, Ijero, Ido/Osi, Oye, and others.

Q2: Which is the largest LGA in Ekiti State?
A2: Ado-Ekiti is the largest in terms of population and infrastructure.

Q3: What functions do LGAs serve?
A3: They manage local infrastructure, health services, education, and revenue generation.

Q4: How can I find the headquarters of each LGA?
A4: The table above provides each LGA with its respective headquarters.

Q5: Are LGAs in Ekiti rural or urban?
A5: They are a mix of both, with Ado, Ikere, and Oye being more urbanized.

Q6: Which LGA has the most educational institutions?
A6: Ado-Ekiti and Oye LGA top the list due to universities and secondary schools.