Sokoto River

This article has an unclear citation style. The references used may be made clearer with a different or consistent style of citation and footnoting. (November 2023) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

The Sokoto River, (formerly known as Gulbi 'n Kebbi), is a river in north-west Nigeria and a tributary of the River Niger.^[1] The river's source is near Funtua in the south of Katsina State, some 275 kilometres (171 mi) in a straight line from Sokoto. It flows north-west passing Gusau in Zamfara State, where the Gusau Dam forms a reservoir that supplies the city with water.^[2] Further downstream the river enters Sokoto State where it passes by Sokoto and is joined by the Rima River, then turning south and flowing through Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State.^[3] About 120 kilometres (75 mi) south of Birnin Kebbi, it reaches its confluence with the Niger River.^[4]

The plains around the river are widely cultivated and the river used as a source of irrigation. The river is also an important means of transport.^[5] The Bakolori Dam, about 100 kilometres (62 mi) upstream from Sokoto, is a major reservoir on the Sokoto River. It has had significant impact on downstream floodplain cultivation.^[6]