Nigeria's purpose-built federal capital since 1991 was conceived as a neutral, centrally located alternative to Lagos (which is an hour 15 minutes away by air) and laid out with wide boulevards and strict zoning, home to around 3.6 million people in the greater metro area. It's a different Nigeria entirely: orderly, leafy, low-rise, and dramatically calmer than Lagos's chaos, with a skyline shaped more by government ministries and embassies than commerce. The dominant landmark is Aso Rock, a massive 1,312-foot-high granite outcrop looming over the Presidential Complex and National Assembly, giving the whole city a striking backdrop. Nearby, the Nigerian National Mosque (pictured in the foreground her) and the National Christian Centre sit almost facing each other, a deliberate symbol of the country's religious balance. Abuja also makes a good base for day trips to Millennium Park's gardens or the Jabi Lake waterfront. Lodging leans heavily on polished international chains catering to diplomats and business travelers, while dining is correspondingly upscale and multicultural, with strong Lebanese, Indian, and Chinese scenes alongside Nigerian fine dining.

Read more in my post Surprising Nigeria: Africa´s Most Populous Country Is an Underrated Travel Gem.


TAIWO ARIFAYAN