nigeria
Land of Jollof and Endless Contrasts
Often overshadowed by headlines, Nigeria is a bag of contrasts with a story that sparkles beyond the surface. With its rich history and vibrant culture, the West African country can turn any travel skeptic into a fervent ambassador. Nigeria’s famous culinary cuisine, jollof rice, is one of its biggest exports. The dish has transcended its borders and is one of the most revered culinary palettes on the global scene.
But beyond its culinary delight, Nigeria is a country of natural phenomenon. Protected areas like Cross River and Yankari National Parks are home to breathtaking waterfalls, verdant forests, and unique wildlife. Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, is a symphony of sights, sounds, and sensations. Here’s more detailed information on Nigeria;
History of Nigeria
Early civilizations such as the Nok culture, which emerged circa 1500 BC, provide evidence of the first inhabitants, who lived at least 13,000 BC. Over the millennia, numerous ancient African civilizations, including the Kingdom of Nri, the Benin Empire, and the Oyo Empire, settled in the region now known as Nigeria.
Islam made its way to Nigeria via the Bornu Empire and Hausa Kingdom in the 11th century. Christianity was introduced in the 15th century by Augustinian and Capuchin monks from Portugal to the Kingdom of Warri.
Islam made its way to Nigeria via the Bornu Empire and Hausa Kingdom in the 11th century. Christianity was introduced in the 15th century by Augustinian and Capuchin monks from Portugal to the Kingdom of Warri.
Nigeria was one of the biggest hubs for the global slave trade market. The traditional slave trade in Southern Nigeria existed before European influence and continued long after the abolition of slavery elsewhere. With the commencement of the transatlantic slave trade, Southeast Nigeria emerged as a vital source of slaves for European traders.
Although the British colonial administration officially prohibited local slavery in the mid-1880s, it persisted into the 1940s. Nigeria won its freedom from British rule in 1960. However, from 1967 to 1970, the country endured the devastating Biafra War. After three decades of predominantly military rule, Nigeria transitioned to a democratic federal republic in 1999, inspired by the US model.
Although the British colonial administration officially prohibited local slavery in the mid-1880s, it persisted into the 1940s. Nigeria won its freedom from British rule in 1960. However, from 1967 to 1970, the country endured the devastating Biafra War. After three decades of predominantly military rule, Nigeria transitioned to a democratic federal republic in 1999, inspired by the US model.
Capital of Nigeria
The capital of Nigeria is Abuja. The city is a blend of modern planning and serene living with an intricate road network and skyscrapers. It was established in the 1980s before replacing Lagos as the nation’s capital in 1991. Abuja is characterized by its wide, orderly streets and an air of tranquility that contrasts sharply with the frenetic energy of its predecessor.
Found amidst rolling hills and monolithic rock formations, the city boasts iconic landmarks like the Aso Rock, the Nigerian National Mosque, and the Nigerian National Christian Centre. Abuja’s green spaces, such as Millennium Park, offer residents and visitors alike a place to relax and unwind. Its burgeoning arts scene and upscale shopping districts provide a taste of contemporary Nigerian life.
Found amidst rolling hills and monolithic rock formations, the city boasts iconic landmarks like the Aso Rock, the Nigerian National Mosque, and the Nigerian National Christian Centre. Abuja’s green spaces, such as Millennium Park, offer residents and visitors alike a place to relax and unwind. Its burgeoning arts scene and upscale shopping districts provide a taste of contemporary Nigerian life.
Language in Nigeria
English is the official language of Nigeria. Urban centers and educated circles predominantly use English for business, education, and government affairs. However, in rural areas, local languages such as Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Fulfulde, Ibibio, Kanuri, and Tiv take precedence in daily communication.
Currency in Nigeria
The naira (NGN) is the official currency of Nigeria with one naira divided into 100 kobo. Currently, $1 equates to 1,512 NGN. Most of the local stores, markets, shops, and restaurants transact mainly in Naira. However, some large stores and hotels accept USD for transactions.
itinerary
- Arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport
- Meet our Discover ME Representative
- Discover ME Partner Driver will pick you and drive you to the Hotel
- Discover ME will host our daily group dinner at the Hotel
Explore the Lekki Conservation Center where you have the longest canopy walk in Africa Nike Centre for Art and Culture. Enjoy artwork at its finest here.
Lagos Cuisine Tour (Danfo Bistro) Lunch.
Later in the evening, take a tour of the nightlife in Lagos.
Lagos Cuisine Tour (Danfo Bistro) Lunch.
Later in the evening, take a tour of the nightlife in Lagos.
Explore the Makoko Community in Lagos, the World’s largest floating house.
Visit to the Baale’s (Head of the Community) House.
Private Canoe to Wade through the fishing village on Stilts.
Visit to the Baale’s (Head of the Community) House.
Private Canoe to Wade through the fishing village on Stilts.
Trip to Badagry
Badagary Slave Museum and Black History Museum.
Visit Gbereful Island.
Enjoy the famous Nigeria party Jollof rice.
Badagary Slave Museum and Black History Museum.
Visit Gbereful Island.
Enjoy the famous Nigeria party Jollof rice.
Relax at the Beach right by Atlantic Ocean.
Visit Jazz House where you will learn the insights into the Culture and History of Popular Afrobeat’s Music.
Later do a night out activity.
Visit Jazz House where you will learn the insights into the Culture and History of Popular Afrobeat’s Music.
Later do a night out activity.
Discover ME Partner driver will be ready to drive you to the Airport-please be on time or you will have to make personal arrangements for your airport transportation.
