ATTRACTIONS 

The South

LAGOS

Located in the heart of the city, on the Lagos Island, it is truly the heart of all commercial and administrative activities. This busy and densely populated city which has the reputation of being the most expensive in the world, is connected to the mainland by two bridges. Besides it is linked to two other islands called Ikoyi and Victoria which house residences of affluent people complete with picturesque gardens. For items like locally dyed cotton and hand-woven cloth, herbs and leather goods, Jankara Market on Lagos Island is the right place for one can bargain here. The A major attraction on the Lagos island is the National Museum at Onikan which displays exhibits of ancient civilizations and native crafts are also on sale.

THE SOUTHWEST

 Ibadan is significant for its university and it houses one of the largest markets in Nigeria. It is advantageously placed at a point from where trips can be made to the other, more traditional, old towns of the Western State.

The large, traditional town of Oyo, the site of the capital of the old Yoruba Empire has houses reminiscent of Portuguese architecture. The Oshun Festival associated with the Yoruba goddess, oshun is of much significance and is celebrated at the end of August every year. The renowned Oshun Shrine and grove rests in Oshogbo, which also houses the foundation of the internationally renowned school of Oshogbo art.
The Yoruba culture has been preserved at the Ife Museum in the town of Ife called Ile-Ife in the ancient times. Exhibits include superb bronze and terracotta sculptures dating back to the 13th century. Batik-dying is done at the University there. The seven Olumirin Waterfalls can be explored from Akure.

THE MOUTH OF THE NIGER

The city of Benin has its roots in the Yoruba culture. At the National Museum, you can get glimpses from an interesting collection of Benin royal art the old city’s moat and wall also survive in places. With a permit obtained from Lagos, the Oba’s Palace can also be visited.

The picturesque setting of the lovely town of Calabar is atop a hill that overlooks the Calabar River. Beautiful baskets and carvings are characteristic of the Ikot Ekepne. Exhibits of Ibibio and Efik carvings can be found at the museum in Oron.

The important merchant port, Harcourt is the centre of Nigeria’s oil industry.
Circular patterns of carved monoliths are an interesting sight at Ikom, on the road to Cameroon.
 For those who love adventure like canoeing and hiking, hamlets in the Cross River State, known for their handicrafts and magic traditions can be interesting places to visit. Places accessible by road include, Sapoba, Abaraka, Sapele, Warri and Auchi.
 

The North

The new federal capital since 1991, Abuja is set amidst beautiful landscapes, which provide spectacular views covering the savannah. The place is however not yet fully equipped to promote tourism.

KANO 

Kano originated from one of the ancient cities of Hausa. It is the third largest city in Nigeria. This 1000 year-old city which was a vital landmark on the trans-Saharan trade routes, still retains that medieval touch like the old-walls around the town. Another monument of ancient Hausa architecture is the Emir’s Palace.

Tourists can purchase souvenirs like richly embroidered Fulani horse blankets and decorations used at festivals, at the Kurmi Market. Other attractions include the Grand Mosque and the renowned dye pits, Kofar Mata, which are used even today and are some of the oldest in Africa. In addition, there are various sports clubs and other activities as part of the city’s nightlife. 

JOS 

This popular holiday spot is located in a beautiful setting 1200m/3900ft above sea level and also has wonderful climate. A small zoo and views of the Assob Falls are interesting.  There are two museums worth visiting, the Jos Museum which houses a large collection of pottery from all over the country, and close-by is the Museum of Traditional Nigerian Architecture holds a collection of full-size replicas representing different styles of Nigerian architecture, such as  Katsina Palace, Zaria Mosque and the Kano Wall.

OTHER INTERESTING SPOTS

 Kaduna, a government town planned by the British with fine architecture and modern amenities.

Zaria, the ancient walled city to the north still hosts a medieval look and has a fine mosque and Emir’s Palace.

Nature lovers and birdwatchers will find the area around Lake Chad ideal. The area is however level and so gets flooded in the rainy season.

For a feel of the mountainous terrain, there is no place like Biu and areas close to the Cameroon border.