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Abuja

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At a glance

Country
Nigeria
Region
Federal Capital Territory
Population
1.2 million
Best time to go
November to February
Main airport
Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International (ABV)
Coordinates
9.08°N, 7.40°E

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Overview

Abuja replaced Lagos as Nigeria's capital in 1991, a purpose-built city laid out in the geographic centre of the country. Wide boulevards, government buildings and green districts sit beneath the granite dome of Aso Rock.

It is calmer, cleaner and more orderly than Lagos, and makes a comfortable introduction to Nigeria. The best moments are often outside the formal sights: suya smoke at dusk, weekend crowds by the lake and the granite hills on the city's edge.

Things to see

  • Aso Rock
    Photo: Mark Fischer, CC BY-SA 2.0

    Aso Rock

    A huge granite outcrop rising behind the presidential complex and the National Assembly, the city's defining landmark.

  • Abuja National Mosque
    Photo: Mark Fischer, CC BY-SA 2.0

    Abuja National Mosque

    The golden dome and four minarets make this one of the most striking buildings in the capital.

  • National Christian Centre

    The ecumenical cathedral faces the mosque across the city, its tall spire visible from afar.

  • Millennium Park
    Photo: Hayatudeen74, Public domain

    Millennium Park

    The city's largest park, with lawns, fountains and a river, popular with families at weekends.

  • Zuma Rock
    Photo: Jeff Attaway, CC BY 2.0

    Zuma Rock

    A colossal monolith just outside the city on the road north, said to show a human face in its rock.

Things to do

  • Eat suya
    Photo: WhisperToMe, CC0

    Eat suya

    Spicy grilled beef skewers dusted with ground peanut and pepper, best from an evening roadside grill.

  • Jabi Lake
    Photo: David Nkwa (Nkwafilms), CC BY-SA 4.0

    Jabi Lake

    Walk the lakeside, take a boat out or join the crowds at the shopping centre on its shore.

  • Arts and Crafts Village
    Photo: Maryann Ndidiamaka Uguru, CC BY-SA 4.0

    Arts and Crafts Village

    Browse carvings, beadwork, textiles and paintings from across Nigeria, and be ready to bargain.

  • Gurara Falls
    Photo: Wolex640, CC BY-SA 4.0

    Gurara Falls

    A wide waterfall a couple of hours' drive from the city, at its fullest late in the rainy season.

Where to stay

Getting around

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get around; the city is spread out and not built for walking.

The airport is around 40 km west of the centre, about 40 minutes by car.

When to go

The dry season from November to February is the most pleasant, though the harmattan can bring hazy, dusty skies. Rain falls from around April to October.

Plan your trip to Abuja

Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.

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