(a) Draw a sketch map of Nigeria. On the map, locate and name (i) one highland area in the North East; (ii) one highland area in the West; (iii) two rivers ...

(a) Sketch map of Nigeria

Key locations shown on the map:

1. Adamawa Highlands in the North-East.
2. Yoruba Highlands in the West.
3. River Benue, associated with the Adamawa highland region, and River Ogun, rising in the western uplands.
4. Kainji Lake, a man-made lake on the River Niger.
5. Lake Chad in the extreme North-East.

(b) Importance of the highlands of Nigeria

1. They are sources of minerals. The Jos Plateau, for example, has deposits of tin and columbite, while granite and other building stones are obtained from highland areas.
2. They are sources of rivers and water supply. Many rivers rise from highland areas. These rivers provide water for homes, livestock and irrigation and may be used for fishing and other economic activities.
3. They provide sites for hydro-electric power generation. Rivers flowing down steep highland slopes form rapids and waterfalls. These provide suitable conditions for generating hydro-electric power.
4. They attract tourists and support recreation. Their scenic relief, waterfalls, cool climate and natural vegetation make highland areas important tourist centres.
5. They have a cool climate favourable for settlement and specialised farming. Highlands are cooler than surrounding lowlands and support crops such as potatoes, vegetables, tea and apples, especially on the Mambilla Plateau.
6. They provide grazing land for transhumance. During the dry season, pastoralists move cattle to the cooler, better-watered highlands where pasture is available.