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Gembu, Taraba State: The Coldest Place in Nigeria

Writer's picture: Simon ZakuSimon Zaku

You don’t need to travel to Europe for cold weather vibes; Gembu, right here in Taraba State, has you covered.


Known as the coldest place in Nigeria, Gembu is a hidden gem with breathtaking scenery, unique cultures, and even an international connection to Cameroon!


Hi, I’m Simon Zaku, the founder of IBI Foundry, and I’ll be your guide to uncovering everything Gembu has to offer. From its weather to its history, here’s all you need to know.


Table of Contents


1. Gembu History

2. What Is Gembu Known For?

3. Gembu Location

4. Tribes in Gembu

5. Languages Spoken in Gembu

6. Does It Snow in Gembu?

7. Is Gembu Colder Than Jos?

8. Gembu Weather

9. Restaurants in Gembu

10. Hotels in Gembu

11. Jalingo to Gembu by Road

12. Gembu to Cameroon by Road

13. Institutions in Gembu

14. FAQs



Gembu History


Gembu is the headquarters of Sardauna Local Government Area (LGA) in Taraba State. Located on the Mambilla Plateau, this small town boasts an elevation of over 1,600 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Nigeria.


Historically, the area has been home to various tribes, including the Mambilla and Fulani, who have coexisted for centuries.



What Is Gembu Known For?


Cold Weather: It’s the coldest place in Nigeria. Temperatures drop as low as 10°C (or even lower) during the Harmattan season.


Scenic Landscapes: Surrounded by rolling hills, waterfalls, and lush greenery, Gembu is a paradise for nature lovers.


Tea Plantations: Gembu is home to some of Nigeria’s few tea plantations, contributing to the local economy.


Access to Cameroon: The town serves as a gateway for trade and travel between Nigeria and Cameroon.



Gembu Location: Where is Gembu Located?


Gembu is located in the northeastern corner of Taraba State, Nigeria.


It sits on the Mambilla Plateau, bordering Cameroon to the east.



Tribes in Gembu


The main tribes in Gembu include:


Mambilla: The indigenous people of the Mambilla Plateau.


Fulani: Known for their cattle rearing.


Kaka and Ndoro: Smaller ethnic groups also found in the region.



Languages Spoken in Gembu


Gembu is linguistically diverse. Commonly spoken languages include:


Mambilla

Fulfulde (Fulani language)

Hausa

English (official language)



Does It Snow in Gembu?


While Gembu is cold enough to make you wear sweaters year-round, it doesn’t snow. However, the frosty mornings and misty hills create a winter-like experience.



Is Gembu Colder Than Jos?


Yes, Gembu is colder than Jos, Plateau State.


While Jos is famous for its chilly weather, Gembu’s higher elevation gives it an even colder climate, especially during Harmattan.



Gembu Weather


Gembu’s climate is classified as temperate.


Temperatures can range between 10°C and 23°C, with heavy rainfall during the wet season and cold, dry air during Harmattan.



Restaurants in Gembu


If you’re visiting Gembu, here are some local spots for food:


Plateau Restaurant: Offers local dishes like tuwo, pounded yam, and egusi soup.


Mountain View Eatery: Known for its stunning views and fresh tea.


Mama Amina’s Kitchen: Perfect for trying out authentic Mambilla delicacies.



Hotels in Gembu


Accommodation options in Gembu include:


Mambilla Highland Hotel: Offers stunning views of the plateau.


Hilltop Guest House: Affordable and cozy.


Green Haven Lodge: Known for its serene environment.



Jalingo to Gembu by Road


The road trip from Jalingo to Gembu is an adventure of its own!


Covering approximately 6 hours (about 212 km), the journey takes you through winding roads, lush hills, and stunning landscapes. Pro tip: use a 4x4 vehicle, as the terrain can be challenging.



Gembu to Cameroon by Road


Gembu’s proximity to Cameroon makes cross-border travel easy.


You can even make the journey by motorbike! Many locals use bikes to cross the border for trade or personal visits.



Institutions in Gembu


While Gembu doesn’t have major universities, it does have institutions like:


Government Technical College, Gembu – Offers vocational training.


Primary and Secondary Schools: Several schools cater to basic education needs.



FAQs


Which City Is the Coldest in Nigeria?

Gembu, Taraba State, is the coldest city in Nigeria, thanks to its high altitude and location on the Mambilla Plateau.


What Is Gembu Known For?

Gembu is famous for its cold weather, tea plantations, scenic landscapes, and proximity to Cameroon.


Does It Snow in Gembu, Taraba State?

No, it doesn’t snow in Gembu, but the weather is cold enough to give you a wintry experience.


What Tribes Are in Gembu?

The Mambilla, Fulani, Kaka, and Ndoro tribes are the primary ethnic groups in Gembu.


How Long Is the Drive from Jalingo to Gembu?

The drive from Jalingo to Gembu takes about 6 hours.


Can You Travel from Gembu to Cameroon by Road?

Yes, you can travel from Gembu to Cameroon by road, even on a motorbike!



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Conclusion


Gembu is not just the coldest place in Nigeria; it’s a destination rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Mambilla Plateau or enjoying the unique weather, Gembu offers something truly special.



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Call to Action


If you’ve been dreaming of an adventure in the coldest city in Nigeria, now’s the time to pack your bags! Reach out to IBI Foundry for travel tips, guides, and exclusive insights on exploring Nigeria’s hidden gems.



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Planned, Designed by Simon Zaku, Founder, IbiFoundry, 2024.

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