The Cost Of Living In Benue State

Benue State, known as the "Food Basket of the Nation," is located in the North-Central region of Nigeria. Its capital, Makurdi, and other major cities like Otukpo and Gboko are key hubs of agricultural production, particularly for crops like yams, rice, and cassava. Due to its agrarian economy, Benue offers an interesting mix of rural and semi-urban lifestyles, making the cost of living in the state an intriguing topic for many. Whether you’re planning to relocate, invest, or simply curious, this blog will provide a comprehensive guide to the cost of living in Benue State by exploring key factors such as housing, utilities, transportation, food, healthcare, and education.

Housing and Accommodation

Housing is one of the biggest contributors to the overall cost of living, and in Benue State, the price of accommodation varies depending on whether you’re living in an urban, semi-urban, or rural area.

Urban vs. Rural Housing

In urban centers like Makurdi, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment ranges from ₦100,000 to ₦200,000 per year. For a larger three-bedroom apartment in a good location, the annual rent can go as high as ₦300,000 to ₦500,000. Prices are typically higher in central locations close to schools, markets, and government offices.

In semi-urban areas like Otukpo and Gboko, the cost of housing is more affordable. A one-bedroom apartment might go for ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 per year, while a three-bedroom apartment could cost anywhere between ₦150,000 and ₦300,000 annually. In rural areas, housing is even cheaper. Some households pay as little as ₦30,000 to ₦50,000 annually for modest accommodations, and there are even cases of rent-free homes for those who own land.

Cost of Home Ownership

If you’re considering buying land or building a house in Benue State, the cost of land varies significantly depending on the location. In Makurdi, a plot of land in a prime area could cost between ₦1 million and ₦3 million, while in more remote areas, land can be as cheap as ₦300,000 to ₦1 million per plot. The cost of building materials such as cement, blocks, and roofing materials is relatively affordable due to the proximity of Benue to cement production plants like the Dangote Cement factory in Gboko.

Utilities

Utilities in Benue State, including electricity, water, and waste disposal, are generally affordable compared to major cities like Lagos or Abuja, but challenges persist, especially with electricity supply.

Electricity

Electricity in Benue State, as in many parts of Nigeria, can be inconsistent. Residents in urban centers like Makurdi experience erratic power supply, leading many to rely on generators or solar power for electricity. The cost of electricity for a small apartment might range between ₦3,000 and ₦7,000 monthly, while larger households could spend as much as ₦10,000 to ₦20,000 monthly, especially when factoring in the cost of generator fuel during frequent power outages.

Water

Access to clean water in Benue is also a challenge, particularly in rural areas. Many households rely on boreholes, and the cost of drilling a borehole ranges from ₦150,000 to ₦400,000, depending on the depth and location. In Makurdi, some areas are connected to the public water supply, but this service can be unreliable. For households without a borehole, the cost of buying water from vendors can range between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000 monthly.

Waste Disposal

Waste disposal services are generally available in urban areas, with households typically paying between ₦500 and ₦1,500 per month for waste collection services. In rural areas, waste disposal is less formal, and many communities rely on local arrangements or do-it-yourself disposal methods.

Transportation

Transportation is another critical factor in determining the cost of living. Benue State has a mix of public and private transport options, including buses, taxis, motorcycles (okada), and tricycles (keke), which are the most common forms of transportation within cities and towns.

Public Transport

In Makurdi and other urban centers, transportation costs are relatively affordable. A typical taxi ride within the city might cost between ₦100 and ₦200 for short distances, while longer trips across town can go up to ₦300 or ₦400. Intercity travel is also inexpensive. For example, a bus trip from Makurdi to Otukpo, which is about 80 kilometers, costs between ₦500 and ₦1,000.

Private Transport

For those who own private vehicles, the cost of maintaining a car includes expenses for fuel, servicing, and insurance. Fuel prices have risen recently, with petrol costing around ₦600 to ₦700 per liter. On average, a small car owner might spend ₦15,000 to ₦30,000 monthly on fuel, depending on usage. Vehicle maintenance costs also vary, with basic servicing costing between ₦5,000 and ₦10,000 for small cars.

Food and Groceries

One of the biggest advantages of living in Benue State is the relatively low cost of food, thanks to the state’s strong agricultural sector. Known for producing yams, rice, maize, and vegetables, the state has abundant food supplies, which keeps prices low compared to other states in Nigeria.

Local Markets

Buying food in local markets is affordable. A family of four can prepare a meal for as low as ₦500 to ₦1,000, depending on the ingredients. A basket of yams, for instance, might cost around ₦2,000, while a large bag of rice can go for between ₦30,000 and ₦40,000. Vegetables, fruits, and locally produced goods are often sold at lower prices than in other regions, making it easier for residents to afford healthy diets.

Supermarkets and Imported Goods

For those who prefer shopping in supermarkets, the cost of food and groceries is generally higher, particularly for imported goods. A 1-liter carton of milk, for example, might cost ₦800 to ₦1,200, while imported processed foods such as cereals, canned goods, and snacks are more expensive than locally sourced products.

Healthcare

Access to healthcare in Benue State is mixed, with both public and private health facilities available. The cost of healthcare varies depending on the quality of the facility and the type of treatment needed.

Public Healthcare

Public healthcare services are available in general hospitals and primary healthcare centers across the state. Although these services are affordable, with consultation fees ranging from ₦500 to ₦2,000, they are often plagued by overcrowding, underfunding, and a lack of medical supplies. Basic treatments are typically covered at a low cost, but for more specialized services, patients may need to travel to larger cities or seek care in private hospitals.

Private Healthcare

Private hospitals and clinics provide better healthcare services but at a higher cost. A consultation at a private clinic can range from ₦5,000 to ₦10,000, with additional charges for medication, laboratory tests, and treatments. For more advanced treatments or surgeries, residents might need to travel to Abuja or Lagos, adding to the overall healthcare costs.

Education

The cost of education in Benue State is influenced by whether parents choose public or private schools for their children.

Public Schools

Public primary and secondary schools in Benue are generally affordable, with fees ranging from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 per term. However, the quality of education in these schools can be lacking due to overcrowded classrooms, outdated facilities, and underpaid teachers. Despite this, many low-income families choose public schools due to their affordability.

Private Schools

Private schools offer better facilities and higher educational standards but at a higher cost. The average school fees for private primary schools range from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 per term, while secondary schools can cost between ₦100,000 and ₦300,000 per term, depending on the location and reputation of the school.

Entertainment and Leisure

Benue State offers a variety of entertainment options, from traditional festivals to modern recreational facilities. While the state is not known for its nightlife compared to cities like Lagos or Abuja, there are still plenty of opportunities for leisure and relaxation.

Cinemas and Restaurants

Makurdi has a few cinemas where movie tickets cost between ₦1,000 and ₦2,000. Dining at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000 per person. For those on a tighter budget, local food vendors and street food stalls offer cheaper alternatives, with meals costing between ₦200 and ₦1,000.

Festivals and Tourism

Benue State is known for its rich cultural heritage, with several festivals celebrated throughout the year, such as the Tiv and Idoma cultural festivals. These events are often free to attend, offering residents and tourists an affordable way to enjoy the state's cultural richness. There are also tourist attractions like the Ikyogen Cattle Ranch and Makurdi Zoological Garden, which offer affordable entry fees.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Benue State is relatively low compared to other parts of Nigeria, particularly in terms of food and housing. However, challenges like inconsistent utilities, healthcare access, and transportation costs can impact the overall affordability. For individuals and families looking for a region with a strong sense of community, affordable living, and a rich cultural heritage, Benue State offers a viable option with various opportunities for a comfortable lifestyle.