By Tosin Ayinde

Taraba State, a product of former Gongola State was created by former military head of state, General Ibrahim Babangida in 1991. Named after the Taraba River, the mineral resources-rich state boasts of unique tourist destinations, one of which is the Mambilla Plateau. 

In the 19th century, the plateau was a major outlet of slaves for the Muslim Fulani kingdoms of Banyo and Gashaka. Interestingly, the Mambilla Plateau is a unique natural endowment that combines waterfalls, hills, and mountains. In fact, Chappal Wadi which stands at 7,936 ft above sea level is the highest mountain in Nigeria, sitting at the northeastern flank of the Plateau. Reports have it that the plateau is Nigeria’s northern continuation of the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon.  

Also, Mambilla Plateau is endowed with recreational values that fun seekers can explore to recharge their system. Its incredible mountain chain, coupled with its beautiful plain green view, and the magnificent waterfall, put together, create an atmosphere of serenity, aesthetics, and warmth that any nature lover can ever desire. 

When it’s about wellness, Mambilla Plateau has you covered as it is naturally endowed with all the natural ingredients that help boost happiness and lower stress level. Knowing that not many can afford a luxury travel experience, a visit to a tourist site like the plateau can help improve your wellness. Its chain of mountains provides a great work-out opportunity for lovers of mountaineering which helps to improve overall physical fitness, learning persistence, and improved mental health.

Notably, Gembu on the Mambilla Plateau is one of the eight coldest places in the northern part of Nigeria. Reports have it that Gembu is far colder than Jos Plateau which is often regarded as a frigid area. Located at Sardauna LGA, the Gembe Mountain stands tall at a height of 4,423 feet, making it Nigeria’s highest. Its chillness can be compared with those of European countries during winter. The plateau is the only region in the country that grows the tea plant on a large scale. The plateau also boasts of an average elevation of about 5,000 ft above sea level, making it the highest plateau in Nigeria. It has an undulating landscape free of insects, in addition to a temperate climate tucked inside of a tropical region.

Also, Mambilla Plateau houses Chappal Waddi Mountain, considered as the highest point in Nigeria and probably in West Africa. As soon as one reaches the top of the mountain, the hot weather witnessed at the foot of the mountain disappears and you will be greeted by a fresh and very chilled breeze blowing across the plateau. Are you on a visit to Jalingo or a business trip, or perhaps you are a tourist and you are thinking about accommodation and the road networks? Worry less because Mambilla Plateau is blessed with budget and luxury hotels that just will work with your budgets. The three major hotels, based on tourists’ preference are Star Exclusive Hotel, Fasttrack Hotel, and Gongola Summit Suites, all located in Jalingo and have competitive prices.

Located opposite Taraba State University, Jalingo, Star Exclusive Hotels provides a deja vu sensation of home-away-from-home. The upscale hotel features a beautiful garden, luxury suites, up-to-date gyming equipment for fitness lovers, all at affordable prices ranging from ₦8,500. The hotel is highly rated by customers. Either you are in Jalingo for relaxation or business, Star Exclusive is your to-go partner.

The Gongola Summt Suites, deriving its name from the old Gongola State, is a three-star hotel that is also perfect for you. Do you crave tranquillity and a serene environment, including cleanliness? Then the Gongola Summit is your best bet. The hotel has a quiet ambiance which makes it a perfect getaway spot for top executives who refill their energies for the next week. A quote on the hotel’s directory reads: “At Gongola Summit Suites, our rooms are of great size, clean, everything at our hotel is environmentally friendly, and the views of the rooms are nice.” Some of its services include: Bar/lounge, well coordinated security services, functioning air conditioning, 24-hour electricity, adequate parking space, continental breakfast, parking garage, among others.

Fast Track Hotel is arguably one of the best hotels in Jalingo. Located at Nyamu Sala Street, behind Muslim Council, Jalingo, the hotel’s unique services set it apart from others. The hotel has its currency exchange which readily allows customers to exchange foreign currency to Naira. It also has designated smoking places and a safe deposit box for the benefits of customers. The ultra-modern hotel, beyond providing quality services, is centrally located in the heart of Jalingo with its prices ranging from ₦16, 950.

Remarkably, the Mambilla Plateau is a unique cultural asset that has been drawing tourists across the country. Its scenic beauty, sports attractions and rich cultural values are timeless and have the potential to boost job creation, strengthen local economy, and ultimately enhance local infrastructural development.

Meiza Nigeria