This study evaluated macro‑ and micronutrient status of soils from three local government areas (Gwer East, Tarka and Makurdi) in Benue North‑West, Nigeria, to identify fertility constraints and propose management options. A total of 35 surface (0–15 cm) and subsurface (0–30 cm) samples were collected using a random design, air‑dried, sieved (2 mm) and analyzed for particle‑size     distribution (Bouyoucos hydrometer), pH (water slurry), organic matter (Walkley‑Black), total nitrogen (Kjeldahl), available phosphorus (Bray‑1), exchangeable bases (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, K⁺, Na⁺) by flame photometry, cation‑exchange capacity (ammonium acetate), and micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn) by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results show soils are predominantly loamy sand to sandy loam (sand 64–77 %, clay < 20 %). pH ranges from strongly acidic (5.4) to neutral (6.7); organic matter is low‑to‑moderate (2–6 %). Total N (0.14–0.60 %) and available P (5–9 ppm) are generally deficient. Exchangeable Ca, Mg, K and Na are low, with base saturation 36–80 %. Micronutrient levels are medium for Cu (0.41–0.64 mg kg⁻¹) and Fe (3.2–6.2 mg kg⁻¹), medium for Mn (5.0–5.8 mg kg⁻¹) and low for Zn (0.30–0.62 mg kg⁻¹). Correlation analysis indicates a moderate positive Cu–Zn relationship (r ≈ 0.55) and a moderate negative Fe–Mn relationship (r ≈ ‑0.63). The findings reveal that coarse texture, acidity, low organic matter and nutrient leaching limit soil fertility, with zinc deficiency as the primary micronutrient constraint. Integrated management liming to raise pH, organic amendments to boost OM and CEC, balanced N‑P‑K fertilization, and zinc supplementation combined with conservation practices (contour bunds, cover crops, reduced tillage) is recommended to improve soil productivity in Benue North‑West.