Nigeria, June 16 -- Despite its relatively small size, Ekiti occupies an important place in Nigeria's political and intellectual history. Its reputation for education, active political participation and production of influential public figures has given it a voice that often outweighs its demographic size. As political activities gather momentum ahead of Saturday's governorship election, the state is once again likely to command national attention.

Here are 15 things to know about the state.

1. Ekiti is one of Nigeria's youngest states. It was created on 1 October 1996 by the military administration of General Sani Abacha from the old Ondo State. It was among six states created during Nigeria's last major state-creation exercise. Its fi...