Describe the distinguishing characteristics of either the Western Highlands or the Eastern Highlands under the following heading: (a) Relief and drainage (b...

Answer Details

Distinguishing characteristics of the Eastern Highlands of Nigeria (the Adamawa, Mambilla and Obudu uplands along the eastern border).

(a) Relief and drainage

• It is a region of high plateaux and mountains, the highest land in Nigeria, rising above 1,500 m, with Chappal Waddi (about 2,400 m) as the highest point.
• The surface is made of ancient crystalline (basement) rocks and volcanic rocks, with steep escarpments and deep valleys.
• It forms an important watershed: several rivers rise here, and it is drained by the Benue and its tributaries (Gongola, Donga, Katsina-Ala), giving a radial pattern; there are rapids and waterfalls suitable for power.
• Because of the height the climate is cool and moist with heavy relief rainfall.

(b) Agriculture

• The cool, wet climate and rich volcanic soils favour temperate/highland crops: tea and coffee (Mambilla), Irish potatoes and vegetables.
• The extensive high grasslands support cattle rearing (grazing/ranching), e.g. the Mambilla cattle ranch, largely free of the tsetse fly.
• Food crops such as maize, yams, guinea corn and fruits are also grown on the slopes and valleys.

(c) Problems of development

• Rugged, steep relief makes farming, building and the construction of roads and railways difficult and costly.
• Poor accessibility/isolation: the area is remote from the main centres, so transport, markets and social services are limited.
• Soil erosion on the steep slopes, thin population and shortage of capital and skilled labour slow development.
• Sparse population and inadequate infrastructure discourage investment.