Fascinating Nigeria Issue 1

Super
Carnivals
Nigeria’s biggest
street parties
PRESIDENT
GOODLUCK
JONATHANGCFR
Launches Nigeria’s Centenary Celebrations
Discover
Nigeria’s
Hidden Gems
VOL 1 ISSUE 1 2013
CULTURE I TOURISM I ENTERTAINMENT
the flag
Nigeria’s colours are green and white, as symbolised by the Nigerian
flag. This unique design represents the essence of Nigeria – the
green for its natural abundance and white for the desire for peace
and unity within the country. As each state hosts the Nigerian
flag during the Centenary Celebrations, the people of Nigeria can
identify with the inherent Nigerianness within all of them.
1
the coat of arms
The Coat of Arms is the official stamp of Nigeria as a country. It
symbolically represents the country and is found on all official
documents, particularly passports that identify the bearer as being
Nigerian. As with most national emblems, it originates in the natural
world: the white “Y” represents the country’s two main rivers,
Niger and Benue, and the black shield its fertile soil. The red eagle
symbolises strength and the two white chargers dignity and pride.
2
the national anthem
“Arise, O Compatriots” dates from 1978, when it replaced
the original anthem instituted in 1960. It is sung to pledge
allegiance to the nation as a whole and calls on all Nigerians to
love and serve the country and to remember those who fought
for its independence and unity.
3
the national pledge
The National Pledge is recited immediately after the Anthem and
reaffirms a good citizen’s loyalty and faithfulness to Nigeria. It
reinforces Nigeria’s unity as a country and as one people, requiring
all Nigerians to defend the nation and to honour Nigeria.
4
Nigeria’s national emblems are symbols of the country’s unity.They represent
the many facets of Nigeria that have combined to create this giant of African
nations. They symbolise the union of many different peoples, faiths and
traditions and the belief that Nigerians have in the unity of Nigeria. Their
history represents the transition from the old to the new, taking Nigeria
forward with hope and confidence into the next 100 years.
Nigeria’s National Emblems

The National AnthemThe Flag
The National PledgeThe Coat of Arms
“Arise, O Compatriots”
(1978–present)
Arise, O compatriots,
Nigeria’s call obey
To serve our Fatherland
With love and strength and faith.
The labour of our heroes past
Shall never be in vain,
To serve with heart and might
One nation bound in freedom,
peace and unity.
O God of creation
Direct our noble cause
Guide our leaders right
Help our youth the truth to know
In love and honesty to grow
And living just and true
Great lofty heights attain
To build a nation where peace
And justice reign.
The National Pledge of Nigeria
is recited immediately
after the Anthem:
I pledge to Nigeria my country,
To be faithful, loyal and honest,
To serve Nigeria with all my strength,
To defend her unity,
And uphold her honour and glory,
So help me God.
Nigeria’s coat of arms consists of a shield, two wavy bands, two
horses, an eagle and plants at the foot of the shield.
The black shield represents the rich and fertile earth the country
is endowed with, while the wavy bands represent the river Niger
and the river Benue, which flow through Nigeria. The two white
horses represent dignity and pride, and a common wild Nigerian
flower (Costus spectabilis) covers the ground on which the
symbols stand, representing the beauty of Nigeria.
The wreath is in the national colours (green and white)
and the eagle represents strength.
The motto of Nigeria “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress”
is also cited on the coat of arms.
Nigeria’s national anthem is a rousing, patriotic
song that evokes the past history and future
aspirations of all Nigerians. It glorifies our country
and reminds us all that we are one nation, despite
our many different cultural backgrounds.
The first national song was adopted in October
1960, when Nigeria obtained its independence
from the United Kingdom. It was written by Lillian
Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and the music
was composed by Frances Berda.
However, a few years later it was decided that a
new song should be composed. And in 1978 a
competition for a new anthem was organised.
The five winners, John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim
Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui and P. O.
Aderibigbe, were chosen from 1,499 entries. Their
lyrics were incorporated into the new anthem and
set to music by Benedict Odiase, the Director of
Music of the Nigeria Police Band.
Created by a Nigerian
student Michael Taiwo
Akinkumni, this well-loved
design was chosen from
almost 3000 entries in a
competition held to create a
new national flag to represent
an independent Nigeria.
The green stripes represent
Nigeria’s agriculture industry
and its lush vegetation. The
white stripe represents the
desire for peace and unity
within the country.
The Nigerian flag was
adopted the same day Nigeria
gained independence from
Britain on 1 October 1960
and was hoisted for the first
time as the Union
Flag was lowered.

1www.fascinatingnigeriamagazine.com
His Excellency, President
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan gcfr
The visionary behind
Fascinating Nigeria
I
am delighted to introduce Fascinating Nigeria,
a new brand that I have just approved to
promote the development of tourism. I believe
wholeheartedly in the potential of tourism
development in our beautiful country and its vital
role in the transformation of Nigeria.
Fascinating Nigeria has been developed to capture
the essence of our uniqueness. Nigeria is indeed
fascinating, and the brand will communicate the
riches that lie within our borders, so that not only
Nigerians but people from all around the globe will
seek out its glories.
In the pages of Fascinating Nigeria magazine you
will discover all that is amazing about our country.
We are a cohesive nation, rich in human resources
and uncommon biodiversity. We have a wide variety
of cultural offerings and economic opportunities that
few countries can boast.
We are a united, powerful and prosperous
nation and our Centenary offers us the chance
to explore and affirm the Nigerian identity. We
shall count our blessings as a nation, celebrate our
dexterity and resilience as a people and resolve
to launch into our next century with renewed
determination, hope and expectations.
We are one nation – one Fascinating Nigeria. Let
us proudly celebrate and share in our nation’s story of
freedom, achievements and aspirations and show the
world we are – Fascinating.

A personal word of
welcome from
Nigeria’s First Lady
I
should like to add my voice in welcoming you to
Fascinating Nigeria. Like everyone in Nigeria I
know how spectacular and diverse our country is,
but this is not a secret we should keep to ourselves.
As Tourism Ambassador for Nigeria I endeavour to
promote Nigeria in all its glory to the rest of the world.
As you may know, I have been particularly keen
to promote the interests of women, especially through
the Women for Change and Development Initiative
(WCDI). Tourism is one of the ways in which women
and young people can earn a living and I have been
very focused on making sure these opportunities
are recognised. WCDI is training women for the
hospitality industry because there will be many new
positions as we grow this sector. Women will find they
are much in demand and, as we create new leisure
destinations, more openings will proliferate.
Women are also learning new skills and receiving
adult education through my foundation, the A.
Aruera Reachout Foundation. It aims to alleviate the
suffering of the poor and less privileged in society by
empowering the beneficiaries in skills acquisition,
as well as offering health services and by subsidising
household income.
Since these initiatives were launched we have
seen many women rise to the top in previously
male-dominated circles, most visibly in government.
This success can filter down so that every Nigerian
woman can have the confidence to succeed in
life, providing successfully for her children and
achieving career goals – which she can do within
the growing tourism environment.
As our tourism industry grows, so our national
unity will strengthen ever more deeply. Nigerians
will demonstrate pride in our nation as international
visitors arrive in greater numbers. Here in Nigeria
we are fortunate to have fascinating assets, whether
cultural, environmental or historical, that can attract
many tourists. I look forward to welcoming you to
Nigeria to see for yourselves!
Her Excellency, Dame (Dr) Patience Goodluck
Jonathan, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
www.aaruerareachoutfoundation.org

National Orientation Agency (NOA)

NOA was established with the mandate of enlightening
Nigerians on government policies, programmes and
activities, as well as mobilising public support for them.
It is also responsible for re-orientating the attitudes of
Nigerians and providing feedback to government on the
people’s feelings and reactions towards its policies and
activities, thus expanding the space for public input into
the government decision-making process.
National Orientation Agency (NOA)
Block B, Old Federal Secretariat,
Area 1, Garki, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory
Tel: +234 9 873 3900
www.noa.gov.ng

Great Reasons
to Visit Abuja
ZUMA ROCK
Zuma Rock towers over Abuja
from the surrounding plains.
At 750 metres high it is known
as the Gateway to Abuja, as
it stands on the edge of the
Federal Capital Territory,
marking the outer edge of the
city limits. It is depicted on
the N100 bill and is one of the
official wonders of Nigeria.

Centre
of Unity
Admire our innovative
architecture: the
Presidential Villa, the
National Assembly
Complex, Abuja
Stadium, the National
Mosque, the Nigerian
Communications
Commission (NCC),
NNPC Towers, the
Abuja Conference
Centre and the
ECOWAS Secretariat.
Explore Aso Rock, Eagle Square,
Abuja Zoological Park,
Abuja Wonderland
and Park, Zuma Rock,
Millenium Park, Jabi
Lake.
Shop in Abuja's Arts Crafts
Village and the Grand
Towers Mall.
Relax at the Transcorp Hilton,
IBB Golf Course and the
Silver Bird Cinema.
Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide
Honourable Minister of State for
the Federal Capital Territory
Senator Bala Mohammed
Honourable Minister of the
Federal Capital Territory

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10 www.fascinatingnigeriamagazine.com
A
warm welcome to all citizens and friends of
Nigeria. It is a great pleasure to turn the pages
of this fascinating magazine and see such
diverse places and people, all Nigerian!
We are each proud of our own state, glorying in its
beauty, traditions and culture. This pride is at the heart of
our sense of identity, but we know we are part of a bigger
entity too. Nigeria is a magnificent country and we should
all take the opportunity to visit as many places as possible,
whether in our own state or further afield. While we hope
that tourists will come here in great numbers to see our
natural wonders and experience our widely varied culture,
as Nigerians we are fortunate to have this beauty and
culture all around us – let us go out and enjoy it.
I
should like to add my own welcome to all readers
of Fascinating Nigeria. As Senator Ahmed Hassan
Barata has so eloquently described, Nigeria is
indeed a diverse and dynamic country and it
deserves to have a worldwide audience.
Fascinating Nigeria magazine skilfully shows us
how we can use culture to unite Nigeria and benefit
from our diversity. From my own perspective, the
sector aims to harness the various and diverse cultural
endowments to re-orientate the consciousness of
Nigerians and to make us realise that we need each
other. Through these pages we can understand the
different cultural norms, values, rich traditions and
customs of the many ethnic groups in our country.
We are indeed fortunate to be Nigerians and to live
in such a beautiful country. I look forward to future
issues of this fascinating magazine as it reveals more of
Nigeria in all its glory.
Senator Ahmed
Hassan Barata
Chairman, Senate
Committee on Culture
andTourism
Hon. Ben
Nnebedumchukwu
Nwankwo
Chairman, House of
Representatives Committee
on Culture andTourism
National Assembly Committees
onTourism, Culture and National Orientation:
Providing Legislative Support

Introduction by
Chief Edem Duke,
Honourable Minister
of Tourism, Culture
National Orientation
F
ascinating Nigeria magazine illustrates,
communicates and showcases some of the
extraordinary attributes of Nigeria, her
people and her natural assets.
When we think about Nigeria many images,
feelings and thoughts go through our minds. Nigeria
is like thirty-seven countries in one. We’re perhaps
the most culturally diverse nation in the world, and
there are so many attributes that make us fascinating.
Our country exudes energy and spirit, and has an
unbelievable amount of potential, so there can be
no better name to describe our “brand” than
Fascinating Nigeria.
But for all of our glorious attributes, we haven’t
yet told our story – and that is why this magazine
is so important. Our nation’s youth will see the
creative achievements of role models. The world will
learn things about our country that they never, ever
expected. And everyone will see that Nigeria is ready
to take her place on the world stage.
By 2050 we will be one of the most populous
countries on the planet, and we need to harness our
creativity and individuality to make our country the
great place it is poised to be. We need to develop
the opportunities that lie within our history and our
How fascinating is Nigeria! We are blessed with the most
beautiful country and vibrant people, and as we approach
our Centenary next January I am proud to announce a new
initiative to celebrate our uniqueness – Fascinating Nigeria.
culture. And this includes showcasing our beautiful
landscape – so that we can build world-class resorts for
both Nigerians and visitors to enjoy our natural assets.
With tourism comes investment opportunities,
and I am pleased to note that Nigeria is currently
the focus of both big hotel chains and individual
boutique hotels. The time has come now to work
with local governments to develop the infrastructure
for visitors and tourists, and to identify the places
they will want to see. We need to let the world know
that Nigeria is just as safe as other countries, with a
more developed tourist market. The more visitors
we attract, the more Nigerians will see the personal
benefits that tourism can bring.
Sport is a viable tool to encourage tourism and
we are looking at ways to make Nigeria an important
part of the world sporting itinerary – and create
valuable business opportunities from it.
Exciting times lie ahead for our country, with new
opportunities for all Nigerians. So please feel free to
pass this magazine on to your friends and contacts.
Show them how fascinating Nigeria is, and encourage
them to invest in our future!
This will define Nigeria.

Contents
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR – The Visionary Behind Fascinating Nigeria...............1
Dame Patience Jonathan – A Warm Welcome from Nigeria’s First Lady..............................................................3
Senator Ahmed Hassan Barata and Hon. Ben Nnebedumchukwu Nwankwo
– Welcome the Readers of Fascinating Nigeria...................................................................................................................................10
Introduction by the Honourable Minister of Tourism,
Culture National Orientation.........................................................................................................................................................................11
Editor’s Welcome......................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Fascinating Nigeria
Interview with Chief Edem Duke, Honourable Minister of Tourism,
Culture National Orientation.........................................................................................................................................................................16
President Jonathan gets Centenary Preparations Moving............................................................................................24
Centenary Celebrations – Secretary to the Government of the Federation
Discusses the Arrangements......................................................................................................................................................................................28
Centenary Celebrations – At a Glance.........................................................................................................................................................32
Centenary City – The Smart City.........................................................................................................................................................................34
A Century in Pictures .......................................................................................................................................................................................................37
Fascinating Nigeria – Why Nigeria Is So Fascinating................................................................................................................51
Nigeria – Everything Under the Sun..................................................................................................................................................................58
Fascinating Facts – All You Need To Know............................................................................................................................................68
Fascinating Destinations
Yankari National Park – Nigeria’s Best-Known Tourist Destination......................................................................70
Taraba’s Natural Treasures – Mambilla Plateau, Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve and
Gashaka Gumti National Park.................................................................................................................................................................................76
Grape Expectations – A Nigerian Wine Industry?........................................................................................................................82
Idanre Hills – A Backpacker’s Dream..............................................................................................................................................................84
Boki Rainforest – A Stunning Display of Biodiversity...............................................................................................................88
Calabar – Nigeria’s First Capital City................................................................................................................................................................94
Carnivals – Traditional Celebrations in Abuja and Lagos................................................................................................ 101
Hotels in Nigeria – Definitely On the Up............................................................................................................................................ 108
Nigerian Food – The Best of Nigerian Cooking............................................................................................................................ 112
Fascinating People
Iyanya – Music Maestro............................................................................................................................................................................................... 117
Serena and Venus Williams – Tennis Icons Visit Lagos................................................................................................... 119
Igho Sanomi – Sponsoring Nigeria’s Culture.................................................................................................................................... 122
58
150
222
171
51 94

Kola Aluko – Motor Racing Aficionado................................................................................................................................................. 124
Angela Morenike Adebayo – Young and Fascinating......................................................................................................... 126
Chinua Achebe – A Tribute................................................................................................................................................................................... 128
Yinka Shonibare MBE – Artist and Sculptor ..................................................................................................................................... 132
Ruke Amata – Nollywood Director............................................................................................................................................................. 140
Ituen Basi – Fashion Designer............................................................................................................................................................................ 142
Chika Ike – Dressing Nigeria................................................................................................................................................................................ 146
Michelle Ogundehin – Elle Decoration’s Top-Flight Editor......................................................................................... 150
Fascinating Culture
The African Artists’ Foundation – Showcasing Nigeria’s Talent.......................................................................... 156
Gidan Makama Museum – Revealing Kano’s Illustrious Past................................................................................... 162
Kalakuta Museum – Remembering Fela Kuti................................................................................................................................ 164
Africa Heritage Group – Saving Nigeria’s Historic Buildings.................................................................................... 166
Return of the Artefacts – Nigeria’s Heritage Pieces Come Home......................................................................... 168
Naija Beats – Nigerian Music Goes Global......................................................................................................................................... 171
Nightlife in Lagos – Hit the Clubs................................................................................................................................................................ 174
Motor Racing – Nigeria’s Racing Eagles Hit the World Circuit................................................................................. 180
Football – Super Eagles – Say No More................................................................................................................................................... 183
Spa Trek – Heaven on Earth in Nigeria.................................................................................................................................................... 188
Ebo Landing – How Africa and America are Helping Slave Descendants Find Their Roots ...... 194
UNESCO – Keeping the History of Slavery Alive....................................................................................................................... 198
Fascinating Events
NAFEST – The National Festival for Arts and Culture......................................................................................................... 200
AFAC – The African Arts and Crafts Expo.......................................................................................................................................... 202
Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards – The Star-Studded Awards Ceremony.............................. 208
UNWTO – The World Tourism Organisation’s Africa Regional Conference in Calabar........... 214
Emancipation Week – President Jonathan’s Visit to the Caribbean.................................................................... 218
Nigerian Culture Week in Beijing – Bringing Nigeria to China.......................................................................... 222
Fascinating Final
Pidgin – Learn to Speak the Lingo................................................................................................................................................................. 226
Travel Supplement
Nigerian Do’s and Don’ts ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 234
Healthy Nigeria – Medical Advice Before You Travel........................................................................................................... 238
Airports in Nigeria.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 240
Airlines in Nigeria............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 242
Car Hire........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 243
Where to Stay – Hotels, Guest Houses and Resorts................................................................................................................. 245
Emergency Services........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 251
208
132 68
188
84
146

Editor’s
Letter
W
elcome to the first issue of
Fascinating Nigeria, the magazine
that celebrates the best of our
wonderful country. There is so much
to see and do across Nigeria that it has been hard to
know quite where to start in this issue!
Next January we celebrate Nigeria’s centenary.
Even though our country is only 100 years old, it has
established a firm identity – we have celebrated our
differences and respected all our traditions to pull
together to make Nigeria cohesive, vibrant and strong.
The first issue of Fascinating Nigeria takes a
look at our country’s proud history through photos.
From the early years of transport through to the
modern cities that we now take for granted, we
examine how Nigeria has evolved, and is poised to
become an African powerhouse.
We also speak with Nigerians, some of the most
industrious, versatile, inspiring and talented people
in the world. We examine our music and film scene,
our arts and crafts heritage, our sports, museums
and social life, and our fashion industry which is
currently taking the world by storm.
In short, we take a good look at who we are.
Our society and culture has been shaped by our
stunning landscape, and in this issue we celebrate
our most beautiful hidden gems. We bring you
pictures and reports from the Boki rainforest, one
of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots, the Yankari
Game Reserve, historic Calabar, the Mambilla
Plateau and the Idanre Hills.
I’m delighted to reveal that Fascinating
Nigeria is the brainchild of Chief Edem Duke,
the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and
National Orientation. Chief Edem Duke is doing
so much to open up Nigeria’s diversity to visitors at
home and abroad. After pioneering tourism in his
native Cross River State, he is perfectly placed to
present Nigeria to the world.
In this issue he speaks about his vision for
tourism, and how it will contribute greatly to the
economy and the development of Nigeria. He
discusses his plans to bring this to life and reveals his
favourite destinations around the country.
This issue explores the Nigerian cultural weeks
in Trinidad and Tobago, China and Brazil, and
we review the success of the UNWTO meeting
in Calabar last year. We also examine the rising
hotel industry in Nigeria, in both the business and
leisure sectors, and take a trip through our nightlife,
restaurants and cultural events.
But most importantly of all we look at the
planned Centenary celebrations, giving us an exciting
preview of how Nigeria will party in January 2014.
If you have a favourite place or old photo of
Nigeria, we’d love to include them in upcoming issues,
so please get in touch. We look forward to taking this
journey from the past and into our future together.
Enjoy!
Funmi Oladeinde-Ogbue
Editor-in-Chief

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – Funmi Oladeinde-Ogbue
DEPUTY EDITOR – Obebe Ojeifo
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR – Sarah Cartledge
ASSOCIATE EDITOR – Dr Taiwo Oladokun
ASSOCIATE EDITOR – Chika Balogun
ASSISTANT EDITOR – Terfa Tilley-Gyado
SUB-EDITOR- Hannah Martin
CONCEPT AND DESIGN – Steve Bell and Lesley Mitchell
CONTRIBUTORS
ALKASIM ABDULKADIR
DAMI AJAYI
PETER AZIZA
KIRIEM BELLO
VICTOR EHIKHAMENOR
LYNN HOUGHTON
Lucy Mason
CHETA NWANZE
YEMISI OGBE
MICHELLE OGUNDEHIN
DR UGO OKOLI
TAMARA THIESSEN
SESU TILLEY-GYADO
LIZZIE WILLIAMS
SARAH WOODS
VOL 1 ISSUE 1 2013
Fascinating Nigeria is a publication of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation. Published by Ancorapoint Limited
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Official Magazine of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation
NIGERIA
FASCINATING
CULTURE I TOURISM I ENTERTAINMENT
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Fascinating nigeria
P
resident Goodluck Ebele Jonathan gcfr believes
wholeheartedly in the tourism potential of Nigeria,
and with good reason. Nigeria offers a beautiful variety
of riches that can be developed to create attractive
tourist destinations and provide a much-desired second stream
of income for the country.
It is vital that Nigeria’s economy diversifies away from its
current reliance on oil and gas. President Goodluck Ebele
Jonathan gcfr believes in the potential of our country and is
working tirelessly through his Transformation Agenda to grow
non-oil sectors.
Tourism and culture have been identified as a prime target
for this end. The Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and
National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, has already set in
motion many different initiatives within the Tourism
Transformation Agenda remit. Here he speaks about the bigger
picture and his plans to grow the tourism sector substantially.
Fascinating Nigeria is an ambitious concept. Please tell us
what you think is most fascinating about our country.
Fortunately you can list a hundred and one things that are
fascinating and attractive about Nigeria. One, the sheer size of
Interview with
the Honourable
Minister of Tourism,
Culture and
National Orientation,
Chief Edem Duke
The head of Nigeria’s tourism ministry
discusses the many varied ways Nigeria can
promote herself as a tourist destination
our country. Two, the dynamism of our youth. Three, the
creativity of the people. The achievements of Nigerians in
every sphere of human endeavour; the huge size of our market,
which makes it a most profitable investment destination in all
of Africa; the landscape.
Nigeria is thirty six states and a federal capital territory. It’s
like thirty seven countries in one. Nigeria is, perhaps, the most
culturally diverse country in the world. There are so very many
attributes of this country that make us fascinating.
Despite its beauty, West Africa traditionally has not been a
big tourist destination for international visitors. How do
you plan to promote Nigeria as an attractive destination?
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation
has a clear mandate to promote tourism and culture from the
President within his Transformation Agenda. In line with that
we are undertaking programmes and activities geared towards
promoting our rich tourism and cultural potential. We are
identifying and developing many different opportunities, both
at home and abroad. We have had cultural exchanges and visits
with China, Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago, and we have
participated in tourism fairs in London, Spain, Berlin and

Fascinating nigeria
Dubai. We have had numerous festivals and events
here in Nigeria including the UNWTO (World
Tourism Organization) in Calabar last year, and of
course the wonderful carnivals which proudly
promote our culture.
Do you have a long-term plan in place to achieve a
certain number of tourists?
Yes, but this involves aligning with other ministries to
achieve vital elements such as good infrastructure –
roads and hotels for a start – and from there we can
grow substantially. Tourism is a labour-intensive
sector and there are huge opportunities for
employment, but we need to work with the hotel and
service industries to train local people to a certain
standard.
What are the most popular tourist destinations
in Nigeria?
These would easily be the pristine Obudu
Mountain Resort in Cross River state, the Idanre
Hills, Yankari Reserve, the Afi Mountain Resort
and the slave routes around Badagry and Calabar.
In the south east there are some unbelievable caves
that you could explore for days on end. And then
you can go up to Lokoja, the Confluence City. The
Niger and Benue rivers flow through and meet
here, making it a prime location for tourist
investment. In the south west, we have the Ikogosi
Warm Springs – it is a phenomenal thing. In fact,
there is hardly any state where you won’t find a
unique product; the greatest aspect of our tourism
is our culture, which is quite individual and
fascinating in each state.
Do you plan a big campaign to promote national
tourism to Nigerians?
Fascinating Nigeria Magazine is part of this big
campaign. We have designed it to showcase the best
of Nigeria and to encourage all Nigerians to travel
around our wonderful country and absorb its
special identity.
In the last two years, the culture and tourism
environment in Nigeria has become increasingly
active. It is benefitting from a new enthusiasm by
the various state governors who have identified
this sector as a major focal point to rally their
people and as a platform for unity, as well as a
major employment area. Once we raise its profile,
there will be growth in our cultural industries as
With Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, in Lagos

Fascinating nigeria
well as tourism, with participation by Nigerians at
home and in the Diaspora.
Other African countries promote their wildlife
parks and animals to attract international visitors.
Currently Nigeria only has around 25 lions, but
plenty of primates and other animals. Would you
consider working with international wildlife
organisations to promote this aspect, which could
generate large revenues?
The wildlife parks are under the remit of the Minister
of Environment, but obviously there is a crossover as
the parks in particular will attract tourists.
Additionally, opportunities are available for us to tap
into platforms in the private sector, development
partners and donor agencies, in order to enhance
some of the basic framework in the sector.
How will the creative sector (the arts, fashion etc.)
generate tourism appeal in Nigeria on the scale of,
say, Kenya or South Africa?
The creative sector in Nigeria is easily the most
dynamic on the continent. The challenge is that we
are not capturing the sector’s GDP achievements
and contributions as much as we should. In terms
of our fashion, Nigerian designers are already in
Selfridges and other retail chains around the
world. In fact, I have sat with international
designers like Roberto Cavalli who have identified
the fashion business in Nigeria as being the new
frontier globally. Our recording artistes are making
music that is resonating even in North America.
All over Africa, Nigerian music has become the
most popular. Nollywood has grown in leaps and
bounds and has redefined the perception of
Nigeria and brought a better understanding of
our environment.
So, when you look at our sector and compare it to
Kenya’s or South Africa’s, we’re recording more
music, selling more fashion, making more films, but
we are not deliberately marketing these or
communicating the merits that they are bringing.
Nor are we identifying opportunities for them. On
the runways of Paris, London, New York and
Johannesburg, Nigerian designers are earning
recognition. In terms of music, on some of the most
important platforms on the continent, Nigerian
recording artists are cleaning up the prizes. We need
to develop a better strategy to promote, market and
disseminate information.
During a courtesy visit by the Lebanese Ambassador

Fascinating nigeria
The budget allocation for tourism is currently
one of the lowest. Can anything be done to attract
more funds?
We’re trying to devise unique opportunities for
enhancing resources available to us. Yes, it is low, but
we’re working very closely with the Ministry of
Finance, the FCT, and so on. We’re developing
initiatives which will be recording considerable,
positive results soon with the Tony Elumelu
Foundation. We’re also exploring some of our bilateral
agreements with different countries of the world and
these will bring enormous value to the sector.
What investment opportunities are available
in the sector?
There are enormous investment opportunities in
tourism and culture. First and foremost, hospitality
in Nigeria is a very profitable investment area. We do
not have enough 5-star hotels. We do not have
enough conferencing facilities or convention centres.
On average, a decent bed will cost about US$1,000.
There’s nowhere else in the world that this happens.
When you invest in Nigeria, you’re sure that you’re
going to be generating considerable profit. All over
the country there are amazing opportunities, not just
for 5-star hotels, but even for 3-star hotels.
A lot of our natural assets like waterfalls, lakes
and beaches are yet to be developed. These are areas
where investment is desirable because people would
like to visit these places to enjoy their spare time. We
have to find ways to work with the local governments
to be able to give some incentives to members of the
private sector to develop them.
Could you specify some objectives for public-
private co-operation for boosting tourism?
We need to get the buy-in of various stakeholders by
promoting our products in both the domestic and
international marketplace. We also will begin to look
at the possibility of mainstreaming culture and
tourism in the educational curricula of our schools
and tertiary institutions.
Which are the areas of infrastructure that are most
critical to achieve high volumes of visitors?
Tourism is a valuable economic activity that must
fuse with transportation, particularly aviation, and
with power, agriculture and, of course, security.
Have recent instances of insecurity affected Nigeria
as a destination choice for visitors? How can the
country be recast in a positive light?
Insecurity is an impediment to the enjoyment of
tourism in any part of the world. The unfortunate
thing is that we have not properly managed the
information about insecurity in Nigeria. If something

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happens in Maiduguri, tourists are not able to
determine the distance between Maiduguri and say,
Lagos, or Abuja, or any other tourism destination.
Generally, there’s the impression that bombs are
going off everywhere. But from what I have heard,
there have hardly been any foreigners who have gone
back with a negative perception of Nigeria.
This is just a beautiful country. People are
warm and hospitable and this has recommended
the area to a lot of tourists. The government is
working to make sure that incidents of insecurity
are dealt with, but when you compare this with the
crime rate in places like the United States, the
United Kingdom and some parts of Africa, there’s
actually nothing to compare. But they have
managed the media in such a way that information
about those crimes does not blur the values that
the nation promotes or offers. We need to do some
work in that direction. It is my belief that with the
government’s strategy of engaging with security
agencies and state governments, it will be
addressed in the very near future.
Can sport be a viable tool for Nigerian tourism?
Of course. We need to host more sporting activities,
beyond annual sports events. There is a need for us to
host continental and international events in order to
accelerate the opportunities for using sport to
promote tourism. I’m sure that the Minister of Sports
has a strategic plan in that direction.
Could you highlight how business can bolster
tourism? What steps have been taken towards
this end?
Business cannot exist in isolation from tourism.
Business requires movement from place to place. That
decision, made in pursuance of business, that takes
you from your primary location, triggers participation
in the tourism sector. You would have to seek
transportation and accommodation, patronise catering
and so on. Nigeria is now seen as a business tourism
destination because of the profitability in investing in
the Nigerian economy in every sector of endeavour.
Tourism provides the ancillary support network for
doing business in Nigeria.
What benefits will tourism bring to each Nigerian?
Nigerians have a fervent love of our country and we
want to share that with everyone. The hospitality
industry is labour intensive and the sector will provide
substantial employment. This will transform the people
in the way they perceive themselves and will bolster
their self-esteem. It will also stimulate the economy
and promote social growth. So every Nigerian, whether
he or she works in the industry or is a tourist, will
benefit from the promotion of our beautiful country. ■
opposite page, clockwise from left With the
Nigerian ambassador to Brazil, Vincent Okoedion; with
entertainment impresario Ben Murray Bruce at one of the
evening performances of the Abuja Carnival; with the
Greek ambassador.
below Visiting the Dajo Pottery in Benue State.

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Vision
The Vision of the Ministry is to reposition Nigeria as
the preferred tourism destination and cultural capital in
Sub-Saharan Africa, offering diverse world-class
tourism products geared to contribute at least 10% of
the Gross Domestic Product through a transformation-
driven policy, legislative and regulatory environment
that emphasises global competitiveness.
Parastatals
• National Orientation Agency
• National Gallery of Art
• National Theatre/National Troupe of Nigeria
• Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation
• Centre for Black African Arts and Civilization
• National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism
• National Institute for Cultural Orientation
• National Commission for Museums and Monuments
• National Council for Arts and Culture
Core Mandate
TO RE-ORIENTATE NIGERIANS TOWARDS
NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN LINE
WITH THE TRANSFORMATION AGENDA
TO PROMOTE TOURISM AND CULTURE
AS A CATALYST FOR FOREIGN INCOME
EARNINGS, EMPLOYMENT, DEVELOPMENT
AND PEACE
TO UNDERTAKE PROGRAMMES
AND ACTIVITIES GEARED TOWARDS
PROMOTING NIGERIA’S RICH TOURISM
POTENTIAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
TO IDENTIFY, DEVELOP AND MARKET
NIGERIA’S DIVERSE CULTURAL AND
TOURISM OPPORTUNITIES
TO IMPLEMENT POLICIES AIMED
AT DIVERSIFYING AND GROWING
THE ECONOMY
Federal Ministry of Tourism,
Culture and National Orientation
Mission
To engage with stakeholders to reinvent and
reposition Nigerian tourism for the emergence of an
integrated, vibrant, globally competitive, skilled,
professional private sector-driven industry through
strategic international cooperation, investment
promotion and a strong, regulatory and cooperative
inter-governmental environment that generates
employment; to alleviate poverty for sustainable
national economic advantage.
1
2
3
4
5

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CHIEF DUKE’S TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
n Obudu Mountain Resort
n Idanre Hills
n Yankari Game Reserve
n Afi Mountain Resort
n Slave route around Badagry and Calabar
n Caves in the south-east
n Lokoja – the Confluence City
n Ikogosi Warm Springs
n Boki Rainforest
CLOCKWISE
FROM TOP Boki
Rainforest; Yankari
Game Reserve;
caves in the
south-east; Idanre
Hills.

Former President General Olusegun Obasanjo (rtd)
and Dame Patience Jonathan enjoying the event.
Behind them are President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
gcfr with former Heads of State General Muhammadu
Buhari (rtd) and General Abdulsalami Abubakar
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan gcfr and Dame Patience
Jonathan with former Heads of State General Olusegun Obasanjo
(rtd), General Abdulsalami Abubakar, General Muhammadu
Buhari (rtd), Shehu Shagari and General Yakubu Gowon, standing
with Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Hajiya Amina Sambo
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan gcfr with (L-R) former
Heads of State General Muhammadu Buhari, (rtd), General
Olusegun Obasanjo (rtd), General Abdulsalami Abubakar,
Shehu Shagari and General Yakubu Gowon.
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan gcfr
with former Head of State General
Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) listening to
the memories of a gentleman born in
1914, the year of the amalgamation

President Goodluck Ebele
Jonathan gcfr with former
President Shehu Shagari
lights the ceremonial flame with former Head
of State General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd)
President Goodluck Ebele
Jonathan gcfr launches
Nigeria’s Centenary Celebrations
On 1 January 1914 the Northern and Southern Protectorates of Nigeria
were formally amalgamated into one country, and the nation we now
know as Nigeria was established. As Nigeria’s centenary approaches,
the country is celebrating with a calendar of memorable events
to re-inspire the unity of our unique nation.
W
hile the world grapples with the challenges of
globalisation, technology and the economy,
our centenary offers the perfect opportunity to
focus attention on Nigeria, our history, people,
achievements and aspirations for the next 100 years.
Nigeria has come a long way over the past century. Our story
is one of admirable and remarkable progress – attaining
independence, fighting and surviving a civil war and
committing to building a stable nation with a strong economy.
We are a melting pot of cultures; multiple ethnic
nationalities and different religions united as one nation.
We are blessed with a vibrant population, a rich
geographical landscape and a maturing democracy.
Our centenary celebration is an opportunity for us to count

our blessings as a nation, celebrate our resilience as a people
and launch into our second century with determination, hope
and increasing expectations.
The Centenary Project is a private sector exercise and is
largely self-funding. The government is partnering with
companies that have the commitment and capacity to
organise and manage the project. Through sponsorship and
engagement strategies, private sector companies can fly the
centenary logo on their products for the duration of the
centenary. The celebrations are providing as many as 5,000
jobs directly, and more than 10,000 indirectly. They will
also give an economic boost to the hospitality sector and
petty traders.
The focus of the celebrations
The Centenary celebrations signify the beginning of a new
chapter for Nigeria. They emphasise our history, identity and
unity – one indissoluble Nigeria based on our shared colonial
experience, common humanity and national destiny. They will
restore hope and celebrate the diversity that marks our
distinctiveness. They express our determination to rise above
our present challenges to build a strong and united nation that
is eager to lead in world affairs.
The celebrations will highlight our achievements, successes
and progress, and institute legacy projects as a lasting reference for
the centenary. They will create job opportunities, boost tourism,
ensure enterprise development and endorse the preservation of
our history and heritage. They will also encourage environmental
awareness and enhance our national image and prestige.
The centenary project
The Nigerian Centenary Project highlights the central thrust of
the celebrations – our resilience and determination to remain
together as one nation. Through active participation and the
involvement of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, the
Centenary Project is anchored on three pillars: the Enduring
Legacy Project, Commemorative Events and the History and
Heritage Programme.
Dancers welcome the guests to the celebrations Traditional musician
Music played a big part in the event

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The Centenary Projects initiative
n This private sector initiative focuses on a number of
specially selected, needs-driven, socially impacting
projects and events in local communities in each state,
such as sports, arts, education, health, environment and
social assets.
n Projects include school laboratories, medical diagnostics
centres, crime laboratories, community recreational parks,
road shelters, ICT centres and other initiatives.
The commemorative events
n The official flag-off ceremony provided a grand opening
to the year’s celebrations with music, fireworks and
special legislative sessions.
n Other events include thanksgiving services, exhibitions,
symposia, youth and children’s programmes, women-
related and physically-challenged programmes, as well
as arts events, such as music, fashion, beauty pageants
and the Centenary Ball.
n Diaspora programmes enable those outside Nigeria to share
in the essence of our centenary.
n Trade and investment shows showcase Nigeria’s vast trade
and economic potential.
The history and heritage programme
Nigeria is a beautiful mosaic of cultures with a national
identity defined by its history and contemporary culture.
The arts are fundamental to our existence, drawing our
nation’s soul for the world to see. To tell our story, the
programme includes art expos, literary festivals, student
essay competitions, photo exhibitions from personal
archives, festivals and carnivals, a film festival and plays.
State events
All states in Nigeria have the opportunity to create their own
centenary programmes throughout a specified six-month
period. Each state is to build a Unity Square in its capital which
will be unveiled during the proposed nationwide unity rally.
The celebrations will culminate in a flag-off ceremony at the
Centenary Expo in Lagos, and a Centenary National Parade at
the new Centenary City, and will be rounded off with
celebratory fireworks and huge national rejoicing as we go
forward into Nigeria’s next century. ■
A big day for such a young singer
and Dame Patience Jonathan
Hon Minister of Aviation Princess Stella Oduah oon, Hon Minister of
Labour and Productivity Chief Emeka Wogu and Hon Minister of
Housing, Lands and Urban Development Lady Amal Iyingiala Pepple cfr

I
am very proud of our beautiful country.As a
people we are fortunate enough to enjoy its
glorious wonders and, as we approach our
Centenary as a nation, it is only fitting that we
should celebrate our heritage.
Nigeria is a beautiful mosaic with a national
identity defined by its history and contemporary
culture. Our resolve to rebuild can only be informed
by a new understanding of our history, the visions of
our founding fathers and the promise of the nation we
can become.
President Goodluck Jonathan has created a vision
for Nigeria with his Transformation Agenda that will
revitalise our country.With his wife Dame Patience,
herself the foremost Tourism Ambassador, he is leading
us with confidence into the future.
The Centenary Celebrations hold the promise of
this future greatness.As Nigeria stands poised to
become one of the greatest nations on earth, even by
the middle of this century, we must stand together to
realise our potential.The Centenary projects are
designed to show our greatness in all areas and to
reinspire the unity of Nigeria.
We are one indissoluble Nigeria and we
should celebrate our diversity in culture and the
distinctiveness of our vibrant population. We are
a united and progressive nation, eager to lead in
world affairs.
In the run-up to January 2014, I urge you to seek
out all that is best in our nation and tell the world. I
urge you join in the Centenary Celebrations
wholeheartedly and rejoice in our nationhood.
OUR
FASCINATING
NIGERIA
Interview with Anyim Pius Anyim
As Nigeria looks forward to a packed year of exciting activities to
celebrate the country’s glorious centenary, we speak to the Secretary to
the Government of the Federation to find out what the government has
planned – and how it will benefit the country.
What role are you and this office playing in the Centenary
Celebrations and the Centenary Project?
National celebrations are usually co-ordinated by this office, and the
Centenary Celebration is no exception. Fifty years ago the nation
celebrated our half century, and those celebrations too were organised
from here. The difference last time though, was that the celebrations
were sponsored by the government, while this time they are being
sponsored by the private sector.
The companies involved will need to see value for money, so the
arrangements and the organisation have to take a different shape this
time, too. We have already met with investors in the Centenary City and
started the process of government disengagement. Our role has been to
identify the programme, set out the policy direction and agree on the
length and breadth of the programme – then we hand over to the event
managers to co-ordinate.
How will the Centenary Celebrations differ from 50 years ago?
It may not be as colourful, but every activity in the Centenary
Celebrations has a point – no activities are planned to simply attract
attention. Most have a target to achieve or have a certain policy direction
such as the programme for Labour Day.
Take, for example, the programme commemorating 100 years of the
Nigerian woman. It’s not just for Nigerian women to come and
celebrate; we have two major targets to achieve. The first is for Nigerian
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim,
outlines the events leading up to the Centenary Celebrations.
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women to produce their own report – the Nigeria Country Report on Women
should be a standard document that can fit anywhere in the world as the basic
country report on women in Nigeria in the last 100 years.
The second aim is to increase the involvement of women in politics. Many people
aren’t yet aware that the President has exceeded the aim of 35% representation of
women in his government. Now he is setting a new target of 50/50 by 2020; only the
President can do that.
This celebration is planned to span an entire year, unlike the previous celebration.
The idea is not that people leave their jobs and take to the streets in celebration. Instead
every event has a target, a purpose, and we are careful about hitting that target. So the
key difference may be in the arrangement. This time there will not be as much colour
but there will be a touch of class, and by the time we’ve finished, the government will
gain from it, rather than carrying liabilities.
“Nigeria is a beautiful mosaic
with a national identity
defined by its history and
contemporary culture.Our
resolve to rebuild can only be
informed by a new
understanding of our history,
the visions of our founding
fathers and the promise of the
nation we can become.”
How will the celebrations be funded
and what has been the process for
funding the Centenary City so far?
We have two arms of the celebration –
the legacy projects and the events. We
fund the events from the marketing that
generates money. The legacy projects
are sponsored, but the Centenary City
will be funded from investments. To
ensure value for money, if you sponsor a
project you may have an advert on it for
about 10 years.
The government is not going to invest
in Centenary City, it will be solely private
sector. As such, the private sector should
organise themselves to drive it, although
we have facilitated the titles to the land.
We have already appointed legal and
consulting firms. The process was started
at the investment meeting with lawyers,
international accounting firms and
businesses. This marked the beginning of
government withdrawal, because the
lawyers and consulting firms would
gradually take over from us. We made a
capital call and set a benchmark. The
lowest investment was $250,000 and the
maximum was $5 million. The total sum
we were able to raise was about $130
million. Many people never believed we
could do this.

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Does the investment give any special advantage in the City?
No it doesn’t, but then the idea is that in the next one or two
years the City’s stock will be listed on the London Stock
Exchange. That alone is an investment that you can take
anywhere, and that is why we are adopting the transferring
process; more than 50% of the investing companies are foreign.
How will other areas of the private sector benefit from
funding projects?
The idea is that each programme should be self-accounted. We
don’t want anybody to simply donate money, instead we want
them to invest their money into something that will generate a
return. As an example, Dangote sponsored the documentary
that was screened during the flag-off, and two weeks ago about
10,000 viewers had watched that documentary on YouTube
and saw the Dangote logo. We are not going to ask anybody to
donate a single kobo to our programme. If you are putting in
money, we will agree on what you are going to get in return for
that investment. This ensures that we won’t need to give any
special currency to anybody and, unlike last time, we will not
be left with liabilities to clear.
Will there be a Centenary Lottery?
Yes, we intend to run a centenary lottery. We have an
understanding with the Lottery Commission, but we will not
run any programme that does not raise the funding outside
government. That is why we plan ahead; the whole idea is to
have enough time to raise the money. We have already
appointed a marketing company, so soon we will see the
adverts and billboards coming out.
Will the marketing reach out to the masses so they get a feel
for the importance of the occasion?
Yes, it will. I received a proposal recently from a Nollywood
group that are proposing a centenary movie, with the theme
of peace and harmony. They plan to shoot in communities so
we are considering it, and if it is approved we can raise the
funding from a sponsor.
What will the people gain from it?
We are working on a very elaborate programme for youths
that will capture the idea of job creation. Initially, as part of
the preparation for 50/50 2020, we are setting up a fund for
educating orphaned Nigerian girls, who won’t be allowed to
leave school until they are 18. Legislation will also make it a
criminal offence for any parent to allow a girl under the age
of 18 to not attend school. For the following youth
programme, we will develop a programme that will address
their specific needs.
Are there any specific plans to involve the Nigerian
Diaspora who have contributed considerably to the
development of their communities outside the country?
We have a number of Diaspora programmes, and even
in the city we have a space for a Diaspora centre.
We have activities that will be organised outside the
country, but we don’t yet have any fully developed Diaspora
programmes. In addition to the Diaspora programme we
have international events that already have been funded,
and we have international concepts that we will hold in
cities around the world.

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Who is the visionary behind this whole concept?
The visionary is President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan gcfr – he
called me one day and asked me to start preparing early for the
Centenary Celebrations, so I assembled the committee that
created the first concept, which we took to Council. Everybody
contributed their input and the Council approved it. The
President feels incredibly passionately about this project and
has had considerable input in it. He’s the major driver behind
the project and talks about it wherever he travels around the
world. We are just doing what we should do to get it going.
Is there any concerted effort to involve
Nigeria’s local media?
Yes, there is, although it’s a little different from what they’re
used to. Before we flagged off we briefed every stakeholder,
from the Federal Executive Council to the International
Economic Council where the governors meet. Then we went
to the Nigerian Labour Congress and the National Assembly
and we took time to brief the Senate and the House of
Representatives. Then we approached the organised private
sector with a huge programme in legacy, and also got the
buy-in from Nollywood before briefing the media in two
segments in Lagos.
Finally, prior to the flag-off, we invited the Broadcasting
Organisation of Nigeria to a dinner and asked them to partner
with us. Every television and radio station covered the event
live without any cost to us. Now we are setting up our office for
the Centenary, and we hope that we will have an arm of it for
the media.
A lot of thought goes into everything we do. We are not
limited to our offices and can look outside for sponsors and to
get the service we want. Since May we have started a number
of activities to get the celebrations under way. Our marketers
are still working out their strategy.
Earlier in the year the President invited all CEOs and
chief executives of privately-owned companies in Nigeria to
a dinner to emphasise that they need to be involved in the
Centenary Celebrations.
With all the work that is being undertaken this year, I am
confident that the Centenary Celebrations and the Centenary
Project will be a resounding success. ■

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CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
FEBRUARY – MARCH 2013
n Ground-breaking ceremony of the Centenary City/Abuja
Unity Square
n States unveil their individual programmes for the
Centenary Celebration programmes
n International Women’s Day
APRIL – MAY 2013
n Democracy Day Celebration – Centenary Special
n Symposium (Nigeria in History: Milestones Challenges)
n Recognition of Heritage Sites (sites that have played a key
role in the history of Nigeria)
n Novelty Match
n Labour Day Celebration – Centenary Special
n World Press Freedom Day
JUNE 2013
n The President launches Dress Nigeria Day
n Nigerian Fashion Show
n Flag-off National Essay Competition
n World Environment Day
JULY 2013
n 100 Years of Nigerian Music
n International Centenary Concerts
n Celebration of Broadcasting in Nigeria
n International Justice Day (100 Years of the Nigerian
Judiciary)
AUGUST 2013
n Youth Day Celebration – Centenary Special
(NYSC in Focus)
n Beauty Pageant – Centenary Edition
n Diaspora Events
SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER 2013
n Unity Rallies in all the States of the Federation (to be
concluded with the Grande Finale in Abuja in December
2013)
n 100 Years of Nigerian Theatre and Films
n World Tourism Day: National Centenary Tourism Summit
n 100 Years of Nigeria Literature/Arts Crafts Exhibitions
OCTOBER 2013
n INDEPENDENCE DAY – CENTENARY YEAR SPECIAL
n National Honours Awards – Centenary Special
n State Dinner
n International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
n World Food Day
NOVEMBER 2013
n Exhibitions by MDAs
n World Television Day
DECEMBER 2013
n Special Centenary Legislative Session
n People Living with Physical Challenges – Support
Programmes
n National Carnivals – Centenary Special (established
carnivals to be adopted)
n Programme with Traditional/Religious Leaders
n Dinner with Former Presidents and Heads of State
JANUARY 2014 – GRAND CELEBRATION
n Presidential Centenary Broadcast
n Special Parades (callisthenics displays, etc.)
n Special Centenary Prayers (Christian/Muslim)
n Special Centenary Concert in Abuja to close the Centenary
Celebrations
n Centenary Dinner
n Book presentation: Milestones in Nigerian History
n Centenary Awards/Recognitions
at a glance

Centenary City
NIGERIA’S
“SMART CITY”
Out of Nigeria’s glorious Centenary celebrations, a major legacy
will be created – the development of Centenary City.
Built from scratch along Airport Road in Abuja, Centenary City
will be the second-largest private city development in history,
and signals a new national economic awakening.

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C
entenary City will promote world-class
multinational and domestic businesses in a
planned environment that will encourage
business and trade in the 21st century.
Around 100,000 people will live in the new city, with
a further 500,000 expected to pass through it daily.
In a concerted effort to boost trade and
investment in Nigeria, and following the success of
Dubai, Monaco, Shenzhen, Singapore and Songdo,
Centenary City will incorporate a free trade zone,
duty free regime, tax holidays and non-regulated
banking services.
According to Nigeria’s Minister of Information
Labaran Maku, at least 16 private sector companies
will invest around $4 billion in the development of 10
districts in the city. The Federal Government will
provide the land in the FCT and agree the design, but
will have no further input.
The concept of Centenary City is exciting and
far-reaching. The aim is to synchronise the demands
of today’s society with the expectations of tomorrow,
and allow the city to develop in a sustainable,
ecologically and socially responsible manner.
As well as signposting the Nigeria of the future,
Centenary City is designed to be a centre for the
preservation of Nigeria’s political history, and the
documentation of the country’s contributions to the
political, cultural and economic development of Africa.
Centenary City will be beautiful, merging the
natural landscape with great architecture, and
creating an environment that is alive and productive.
It will be a green city with a natural buffer that
envelops the entire conurbation, and will include a
central park to provide a green spirit to give clarity
and iconic power to the city centre.
While flexible topographies will create a flowing
and vibrant city, Centenary City will be formed
around an urban grid that is modular and organic,
with an efficient traffic system where people and
transport can co-exist successfully. Public areas will
feature a prominent cultural core, with symbols of
Nigeria’s unity and strength, and the commercial
centre will boast the latest in office architecture,
exotic hotels, shopping malls, convention centres,
theatres and cinemas.
Elegant high-rise apartment blocks will mix with
family houses, served by schools and a university
campus, health centres and theme parks. Sport will
also be given great prominence (there is already an
offer of sponsorship for an Institute of Sport that will

fascinating nigeria
include a mini stadium and signature golf course). A
modern sports hospital will provide cutting-edge
sports medicine and diagnostic tools, and plans are
being made for it to perform double bundle
arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament
reconstruction (knee surgery), with a view to
attracting medical tourism to the city.
The city will benefit from a constant power
supply, with a gas-fired 500 MW power plant
connected directly to a gas terminal. Water
management will ensure that 60% of water will be
recycled, and waste will be reduced as close to zero as
possible. Domestic waste will be used to create
nutrient-rich soil fertiliser, or incinerated as an
additional power source.
As a preferred destination for multinational and
domestic businesses, it is expected that the top
corporate bodies in Nigeria will have a major
presence in the city.
Federal and Presidential presence
Centenary City isn’t the only major construction
planned to celebrate Nigeria’s centenary. Visitors to
Abuja will be welcomed by a new Abuja City Gate
(expected to become a major tourist attraction in its
own right), a new ceremonial arcade will be built in
Eagle Square for government ceremonies and
activities, and a presidential retreat is planned as an
alternative operational base for the president.
The Presidential Archives will house the history
of Nigeria’s political development and the
contributions of the country’s presidents, while the
Institute of Federalism in the University Campus will
become a world-class institution for the preservation
of Nigeria’s political history.
With its outstanding infrastructure and secured
business environment it is expected that Centenary
City will become a popular business and tourist
destination by the end of its planned five-year
development cycle.
The city will demonstrate the harmony between
nature and the work of man, and set an ideal example
for the future of urban development in Nigeria –
reinforcing the nation’s collective destiny for the next
100 years. ■
PREVIOUS PAGE A view of Dubai at night
ABOVE Singapore’s Central Business District
www.fascinatingnigeriamagazine.com

Centuryin pictures
A
Front view Government House, Lagos.
Marina Street waterfront shops Lagos, 1925.

Fascinating nigeria
Nigerians in trenches, at the battle of
Mahiya (1919). Source – Nigerians in
German East Africa.
Tin worker carriers crossing a swamp
(1914).
City of Kano. Aerial photo taken in
1930 by Swiss pilot photographer
Walter Mittelholzer.
Murtala Muhammed international airport, Lagos, 1970s.
Burial custom in Igbariam, Eastern Nigeria, 1913.

Fascinating nigeria
King's College, Lagos (circa 1910), a boys-only secondary school
Construction of the Port Harcourt-Kaduna railway in the 1930s.
Yam market at Iddo, Lagos, 1910.
A very young Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, the
late Justice (Sir) Adetokunbo Ademola and Chief Obafemi
Awolowo on Her Majesty's trip to Nigeria in 1956

Fascinating nigeria
Classes for children
in the street, Ibadan, 1970.
Enda Park. An
Itsekiri woman, born
and raised in Lagos
(pictured) was the
first Miss Nigeria at
the Miss Universe
contest, in the 1964
pageant held in
Miami, Florida.
Tinubu Square, LagosKano Airport, 1950s.

Fascinating nigeria
Lagos, 1960.
Aerial view of Lagos, 1960s.

Sugar cane seller, 1930s.
Oba Afunbiowo Adesida I
meeting the Queen, 1956.
Lagos during Queen Elizabeth’s
visit to Nigeria, 1956.
View of Paterson and Zochonis’ Factory House on the Marina, Lagos.
This photo was taken on Coronation Day, 1912.
Opening of Nigeria
Constitutional Conference, 1958.

43
Fascinating nigeria
Tinubu square at night, Lagos, 1967.
His Majesty the Oba of
Benin, Akenzua II, at his
desk in the palace of Benin.
Groundnuts transport by rail, Northern Nigeria, 1930s.
Feb 1956 Queen Elizabeth II
meets His Majesty the Oba of
Benin at the Benin Aerodrome.

Fascinating nigeria
Installation of the Sultan of
Sokoto Attahiru II, 1903.
Burial ceremony of late Chief Coco Ota Bassey, Calabar, 1910s.

Fascinating nigeria
Catholic mission, Asaba, Southern Nigeria, 1900s.
The Sariki of Geidam, Northern Nigeria, returning from Zaria with followers, 1910.
The Emir of Katsina Muhammad Dikko dan Gidado and Guards, Katsina, 1909.
Queen Elizabeth II inspects the Guard of Honour,
Enugu, Eastern Nigeria, 1956.
A British expeditionary officer
interviewing a chief, 1901.

Fascinating nigeria
Abirimagia Masquerade, Buguma, Nigeria, 1944. King Duke IX of Old Calabar, 1895.
A day school at Jen, Taraba, 1950s.

Fascinating nigeria
Sir Ahmadu Bello (right) with the
Emir of Kano Sir Muhammadu
Sanusi, late 1950s.
15th anniversary of T.A. Oni Sons Ltd 1961.
The contemporary Yoruba Kings: Oba Adeniji Adele of
Lagos (middle) with the later Olubadan of Ibadan Oba
Yesufu Oloyede Asanike (extreme left – perhaps a
regional Chief at that time) and Alake of Abeokuta
Oba Adetokunbo Ademola (extreme right). Circa 1950.

Fascinating nigeria
Aerial view of the University of Lagos Staff Quarters, 1972.
The Club, Lagos, 1910s.
Sailors' house, old treasury and Empire day celebrations, Lagos, 1910s.

Fascinating nigeria
The Emir of Kano Alhaji (Dr)
Ado Bayero when he was a
policeman in the late 50s.
Marina, Lagos, 1910s.
Government Secondary School,
Afikpo, 1966.
1930 photo of Sultan Shehu Sanda
Kyarimi’s Borno guards.
Peatwal Junior
Primary School,
Kano, 1960.
Fishermen casting off a boat into the
Atlantic Ocean, c1920

Fascinating Nigeria
Ever wondered what makes Nigeria such a fascinating
nation? We celebrate the great, bizarre, weird and wonderful
in this multi-creed country – from its key role in global
peacekeeping, world-class soccer team and commendable
history of press freedom, to its love of rhetoric, aversion to
punctuality and fanatical passion for comedic self-criticism
that borders on a national sport.
W
ith a political history that unfolds
like an espionage thriller, Nigeria is a
bewildering paradox with more
compelling twists and turns than a
Bisi Daniels plot. Nigeria has the potential to be
Africa’s powerhouse, yet remains so bound by red
tape that the simplest transaction becomes a
constipated bureaucratic bottleneck. It is the 6th-
largest producer of crude oil on the planet, so why
does Nigeria still import petrol and kerosene to
power its cars and cooking stoves? Some of the finest
award-winning athletic specimens on the planet are
Nigerian – so why does the nation encourage obesity,
and all the serious health risks it brings, as a sign of
good living and wealth?
Writer Chinua Achebe famously summed up his
own internal conflict by declaring his love for Nigeria,
saying, “Being a Nigerian is abysmally frustrating and
unbelievably exciting…in my next reincarnation, I
want to come back as a Nigerian again.” Many will
identify with this complex mishmash of emotions
when debating their homeland. We adore it, it
maddens us, it inspires us, it disappoints us: we are
critical, we are informed, we are proud citizens and its
harshest judges – so let’s talk.
We are well oiled
As the largest oil producer in Africa, Nigeria’s
pipelines spew out over 2.4 million barrels per day – a
mind-boggling quantity. We are also pretty proud of

Fascinating Nigeria
our other “black stuff” – Guinness. Since
1962, we have brewed Guinness using
sorghum as opposed to barley to give it
the bitter thirst-quenching taste we crave.
Apparently, we sup more of the famous
froth-topped stout than in the Emerald
Isle itself – extraordinary when you
consider 50% of our population is
non-drinking Muslim.
We give peace a chance
Since joining the United Nations in 1960
our work in international peacekeeping
has been rightly deserving of Nigerian
pride. We have consistently committed
ourselves to the cause of peacekeeping and
peacemaking, sending troops in to Congo
to participate in the UN peace mission
just hours after gaining independence.
Today, Nigeria leads the world in global
peacekeeping, contributing 6,500 troops
to over 20 international operations in
places such as Bosnia Herzegovina,
Iraq, Kuwait, Western Sahara, Liberia,
Angola and Rwanda – more than any
other nation worldwide.
We talk the talk
Nigeria should also be praised for its
ability to juggle a zillion languages. While
English is the main tongue, an additional
520 lingos are spoken together with well
over 4,000 dialects – not to mention a
bewildering use of regional slang that can
border on a secret code. We load our
conversation with rhetorical questions as
a statement to assert a point. However,
unlike other nations, we also enjoy
answering rhetorical questions. So, don’t
say to us, “I mean, can you imagine?”
because we will most probably reply with,
“What? Imagine what?” A hilarious, if
exasperating exchange.
We are musical maestros
Our music dominates the African
continent – everyone in Nigeria is a
musician, or wants to be one. The
industry is a goldmine, with an estimated
1,200 concerts and shows each year
accounting for a combined annual
turnover of US$105.5 million. Record
sales have more than tripled in the past
five years, averaging 10 million in 2005
and rising to an estimated 30 million in
2008 – imagine what it could achieve
without an accepted culture of piracy?

We respect our elders
Another source of Nigerian pride is our
societal values, and I am often reminded
that the respect we afford to our elders is
the envy of many countries worldwide. A
surviving practice of respect remains a
central tenet of life throughout the
country. Age is valued for the wisdom it
represents and all older people are greeted
and spoken to with great reverence.
We are fertile and populous
Nigeria has undergone a population
explosion over the last 50 years,
quadrupling the number of
Nigerians. In fact, we are so populous
it is almost impossible for the
Nigerian government to estimate,
despite the 2006 census that put the
population at 140m, and guesstimates
of 160m could well be tens of millions
out. UN figures suggest the
population of Nigeria will reach 390
million by 2050 – and a staggering
730 million by 2100. Seeing double?
It’s hardly surprising, as Nigeria has
the highest rate of twin births in the
world. Igbo Ora, a sleepy town in
south-west Nigeria, lies at the heart of
the twin zone. More twins are born
here than anywhere else on earth – a
result of a yam-rich diet, according to
at least one study.
Lonely? Not us
You’ll never be lonely in Nigeria. Our
social life and depth of interaction is
much richer in Nigeria than many
Western societies. Indeed, loneliness is
a word that most Nigerians would
struggle to comprehend in
communities where doors are always
open, drivers stop to offer lifts and
families always set extra places for
dinner. We chat at bus stops, share a
joke at the market and enquire after the
health of our colleagues. Nigerians are
also quick to help out people in need
– and of that we should be proud.
We are resourceful and
inventive
Ingenuity? Nigerians have this in truck
loads. We can get anything working
with a bit of tinkering, and can
customise all sorts of stuff with ease.
We keep old wire coat-hangers, fruit
boxes, newspapers, string, cycle wheels,
nails, screws and a hammer handy –
just in case. In a newspaper recently, I
read about a guy in Maiduguri who
built a working helicopter from scrap. I
also hear that someone in Lagos built a
replica Peugeot from garden canes –
little wonder that membership of the
Nigerian Association of Inventors is on
an upward trajectory.
We excel at sports
Our sporting prowess is legendary and
Nigeria has won a huge tally of trophies
as an international force across a number
of disciplines, including athletics, soccer,
boxing, tennis and golf. We’ve won
dozens of medals at numerous Olympics,
CAF, African Cup and Commonwealth
Games – to name just a few. In February
this year, tens of thousands of us soccer-
mad Nigerians lined the streets of Abuja
to welcome the Super Eagles back home
clasping the African Nations Cup – for
third time.
We have a vibrant media
With a huge variety of national and
local newspapers and magazines, we
have one of the world’s largest
newspaper sectors. Our constitution
supports freedom of speech – and our
government generally respects this.
Our journalists are often great
champions of deserving causes who
shout loud at injustice and challenge
political shenanigans. Compared to
many of our African neighbours, our
media sector is more mature, much
more established and more respected.
We make world-class flicks
The Nigerian film industry – rumoured
to have been first labelled ‘Nollywood’ by
GeorgeOsodi

Fascinating Nigeria
a writer for the New York Times in 2002
– is second largest in the world based on
production. With the average spend on
each movie around US$ 25,000, our film
industry is the fourth-largest economic
sector in Nigeria, equating to 5% of GDP,
generating a colossal $500 million.
We are well connected
According to a report published by the
World Bank and African Development
Bank (AfDB), of the 650 million mobile
subscribers in 2012 in Africa, Nigeria
leads the way with a staggering 100
million subscribers. By 2020, this figure
will have soared to a whopping 169
million with cell phones accounting for
over half of all web traffic in Nigeria
(57.9%).
We are funny
We are well known around the world
for our unfailing ability to always see
the funny side of life, even in the most
calamitous of situations. We giggle,
chortle and chuckle more than any of
our African neighbours, according to
studies. Seeing the humour in things is
a great resource as it helps us to cope
with difficulties. It is also a great aid in
managing stress. We are skilled in
joking about politicians and the
frustrating, irritating and maddening
things people in power do. We tease
our friends, rib our colleagues and quip
with strangers. We are also adept at
laughing at ourselves. Generous
reserves of stoicism can give Nigerians
the edge when optimism is called for.
Jokes, like those about power cuts and
fuel queues, offer laughter when there
is little to be sunny about.
Example: A man dies and goes to
hell. Once there, he finds that there is a
different hell for each country, so he
tries to seek out the least painful one.
At the door to German Hell, he is
told: “First they put you in an electric
chair for an hour. Then they lay you on
a bed of nails for another hour. Then
the German devil comes in and whips
you for the rest of the day.”
He does not like the sound of that,
so he checks out American Hell,
Russian Hell and many more. They are
all similarly gruesome. However, at
Nigerian Hell a long line of people is
waiting to get in. Amazed, he asks,
“What do they do here?”
He is told: “First they put you in an
electric chair for an hour. Then they lay
you on a bed of nails for another hour.
Then the Nigerian devil comes in and
whips you for the rest of the day.”
“But that’s the same as the others,”
says the man. “Why are so many people
waiting to get in?”
“Because of the power cuts, the
electric chair does not work. The nails
were paid for but never supplied, so the
bed is comfortable. And the Nigerian
devil used to be a civil servant, so he
comes in, signs his time sheet and goes
back home for private business.”
We know how to party
Even though we are sure to arrive late,
parties in Nigeria are well attended.
And with our loud, booming voices,
raucous music and plentiful supply of
stories, food and drink – a good time is
guaranteed. We celebrate everything
and anything. Always. Be it the birth of
a baby, a death of an elder or
something random like a 37th birthday.
We dress up to the nines, often
changing our clothes several times
throughout the party. We have a cake.
We dance until breakfast time. Just one
thing to bear in mind, though – when
you invite a Nigerian to a party, expect
him to bring an army of friends and his
food – one very good reason why we
always cater for 300 people.
Time to do better
When it comes to being punctual, we
know we could do better. Keeping to
time is not a part of Nigerian culture.
Yes, we accept that punctuality
increases productivity but we just can’t
watch the clock. People wonder how
the business world survives in a
continent that rarely keeps
appointment times. In truth, many of
us wish that wheels would turn faster
– for “African time” impacts education,
homebuilding, contract decisions,
parcel delivery and all crucial
deadlines. Punctuality is the soul of
business. Time, as they say, really is
money. Well done those Nigerian
businesses that reward good time-
keeping. In Nigeria, we do business in a
leisurely manner. ■

A Marvellous
Country – Nigeria
M
y next door neighbours back home in
Benin have a daughter called
Marvellous. It seemed strange to me
when I first heard the name, for my
neighbours aren’t rich people. Their family is
squeezed into a cramped, one-room apartment and
they rise at 4am every day to start work. And yet,
however hard their life now, they chose to give their
daughter a name filled with hope and joy – and the
optimism of a wonderful life.
And that to me represents Nigeria. As hard as life
may be for some people, as a nation we are filled with
hope and joy – and the optimistic belief that, despite
everything, life really is marvellous.
You only need to look around at our amazing
country to see that they have a point. Our stunning
natural beauty and rich cultural heritage is attracting
tourists in their droves, as well as the attention of
large international and small boutique hotel chains.
We even have our very own sporting heroes to
by Victor Ehikhamenor

Fascinating Nigeria
worship, thanks to our recent win in the African Cup
of Nations Tournament in South Africa. Like many
supporters, I enthusiastically cheered our team on
from day one – my heart in my mouth in the times
when I thought they couldn’t go further. I prayed to
God, I prayed in church, I even prayed on Twitter that
we’d go the distance!
It wasn’t until the final whistle blew that I realised I
really have no other country but Nigeria, and the
earlier we all start loving it, the better. And it seems we
have already started to. The recent AFCON win
changed the mood of our nation overnight, making us
all worshippers of “Nigerianness” again.
The really great thing about football is that it
transcends social class. Your bus conductor is just as
likely to support the Super Eagles as the CEO of a
multinational company. Even the President of Nigeria
himself is a fan! And I’m proud of belonging to a
country where differences can be set aside, with the
right game mind.
As our AFCON win proves, Nigeria is a country
built on dreams. And slowly we are seeing them
come true. Already Nigerians have risen from abject
poverty to extreme wealth, proving true the
inscriptions you see on lorries around the country
“No condition is permanent”. One day a Nigerian can
struggle to feed his family. The next moment a
chance meeting of the right “man” can suddenly
change everything for the best.
“Come to Nigeria and be saved” should be our
message to the world. As a country we love God, and
religion flows through our veins. While, like every
country, we have a few bad eggs, as a whole we’re a
nation that cares. Our churches have filled the gap in
our social-welfare needs, taking care of the needy
among us. So it’s no surprise that Nigerians proudly
declare themselves the most church-going people in
the world (we certainly have more churches than
most, if not all, countries). And most importantly, in
Nigeria you are able to worship freely.
Growing up in Nigeria makes you tough when you
need to be, and able to compete anywhere in the
world. As they say on the streets here, “Nigeria nor dey
carry last” If you study abroad, don’t be surprised if
your fellow classmates can’t match your intelligence –
in Nigeria you have been trained to use the most
meagre resources to survive.
Nigerians are a resilient people who don’t take no
for an answer. We’re competitive and don’t like to be
beaten in anything we do. In my field of visual art and
literature, there is no world prize worth its onions that
we have not won, from Nobel Prize to Orange Prize
and Turner Prize. In fact, you name a field and you
can bet that somewhere or other there’s a prize-
winning Nigerian resting on their laurels.
When you think of just how many of us there are,
it’s almost no surprise that there are so many
noteworthy Nigerians. One in four of all black people
is Nigerian, and it’s estimated that by 2050 we’ll be the
4th-most populous country in the world. This strength
in numbers can only work in our favour – helping us
achieve our aim of transforming our fortunes and
being among the top 20 economies in the world.
Already some of the wealthiest people in Africa are
Nigerian, and our economy is the second-largest in
Africa, after South Africa.
When it comes to wealth, Nigeria’s greatest riches
are the gifts bestowed on us by Mother Nature. I
recently had the privilege of working with Dayo
Adedayo, a photographer who has travelled the length
and breadth of Nigeria. Adedayo observed during his
travels that every state in Nigeria has at least one
stunning natural tourist attraction. We also have an
amazingly rich and diverse culture for our lucky
tourists to explore. Indeed, there’s no reason for any
visitor to our country to get bored. We have hundreds
of sites and tourist attractions to discover, some of
which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Our modern day culture and traditions are just as
thrilling as our historic relics. Nigeria has produced a
mind-boggling number of respected musicians,
creating a new soundscape with the ever-growing
music industry in Africa. To be Nigerian is to enjoy
the dynamic mix of talented musicians who are taking
over the world stage – from the Afrobeat legend Fela,
to newer legends like TuFace Idibia.
Our movie industry, globally known as Nollywood,
is the second-largest in the world based on production,
too. It’s official, we make more films than Hollywood!
So while the rest of the world dreams of making it big in
the movies, Nigerians are out there doing it.
And what a perfectly fitting way to end my
story. For you see, to me Nollywood, just like my
neighbours’ daughter, epitomises everything that is
great about Nigeria. It doesn’t matter to us how hard
our life is now, or what we don’t have. Our bodies may
be waking at 4am to start a long working day, but our
hearts are flying high with hope, ambition and
optimism. We dream big and we work to make
those dreams come true. And that, I believe, is
truly marvellous. ■

NIGERIAeverything
under the sun
Lagos Architecture, by Kelechi Amadi-Obi
58

T
ucked away in the inner curve of West
Africa, surrounded by French-speaking
republics, Nigeria remains something of a
mystery for tourists. Spread across its
350,000 square miles lie deserts, beaches, cities,
kingdoms, and exotic discoveries – both ancient and
modern, developed and wild. The country’s warm and
friendly people speak a mind-boggling 4,000 dialects,
and follow a dizzying array of traditional rituals.
The traditional tale of Nigeria is of a land split
into three: the Muslim north, the Christian south and
the animist or Igbo east. The cities of Lagos in the
south, Enugu in the east and Kano and Kaduna each
have their own, unique character – all expressed in
food and formal rituals. The diverse regional cultures
serve to ensure than Nigeria feels less like one single
country and more like a rich tapestry of traditions,
both new and old.
59

Nigeria’s history is an ongoing journey of
discovery, from the south’s famous Benin Bronzes
from the old Kingdom, to the Nok’s more recently
discovered, finely-worked terracotta sculptures
that date back thousands of years. A lesson on the
country’s history would sweep from the lost
cultures of the sub-Sahara and trade with the
Malian empire, to pre-colonial contact and the
transatlantic slave routes – as found in the
National and Heritage museums.
Kano
Abuja
River frog
Suya
60

Venture off the beaten track in Nigeria and
you’ll discover many hidden gems. Explore the
wildlife on the Yankari Game Reserve and the
Gashaka-Gumti National Park, near the border
with Cameroon. These splendid reserves are a
reminder that, although Kenya and Tanzania are
better known for big game and wildlife, Nigeria
also has its share of lions, elephants and other
exotic creatures of the magnificent lower savannah.
These self-sustained and virgin ecosystems are well
Tea plantation Mambilla Highlands
Lagos architecture
God of Smallpox
Nana Kofi Acquah –
Water No Get Enemy
Elephant in Yankari National Park
Kingfisher
Agbokim Waterfall, Cross River State
River fishing
Abuja City Gate

stocked with everything from antelope and
monkeys to birds of almost every variety.
If you prefer your adventure to be a little more
packaged and “curated”, the Obudu Mountain Resort
is a fully structured tourist resort with a water park,
horse rides and a petting zoo. You can also get a brief
glimpse of the country’s nature at the Cross River
Park and Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos.
Nigeria’s “wild life” isn’t restricted to its
countryside. The country’s cities offer a rich variety of
culture and commerce around the clock. The world’s
7th-most populous country, Nigeria’s cities throb and
hum with the rhythm of busy and colourful daily
routines, where people of diverse cultures, speaking a
range of different languages, live side by side.
Carnival parade
National Communications Commission Abuja
Carnival beauty
Efo-riro
Head with crown. Wunmonije Compound, Ife.
14th-early 15th century CE. Copper alloy.
Fundación Botín/Museum for African Art
62
©NationalCommissionforMuseumsandMonuments,
NigeriaPhoto,KarinL.Willis

In the country’s capital, Abuja, the Hilton has
evolved from an international hotel complex into an
international village. It welcomes everyone from
world leaders to club promoters, northern princes
and southern salesmen to eastern entrepreneurs,
meeting their every need – be it clubs, champagne,
fine dining or fast cars. This is where and frequently
how business is done. The Federal Capital Territory,
as Abuja is known, was built for business by day, and
luxury, high-end enjoyment at night.
Whatever Abuja can do, Lagos, Nigeria’s
commercial capital, would claim to be able to do
better. It certainly manages more – more music, more
food, more people and more magic. Lagos is a dream
for writers, photographers and cultural
Durbar
Cowfoot Soup “Bokoto”
Gele headtie
Catwalk model
Ekemini Cultural Troupe from Akwa Ibom
63

anthropologists. It’s a place given to creation and
improvisation, where jazz clubs, poetry evenings and
makeshift restaurants can spring up and be gone in
the space of week. It’s impossible not to get caught up
in the spirit of the city, even if you’re only passing
through. Its complications of heli-taxis, go-slows,
music shows, fabric and food markets, civil servants,
intellectuals, heat, haggling and hustlers on the make,
make it a compelling and intoxicating experience.
So if you’re looking for a sedate holiday
destination, somewhere you can enjoy a quiet
vacation shuttling between your hotel and perfectly
paved, picture-perfect promenades, it’s probably
better to give Nigeria a miss. However, if you’re
longing to explore a country packed with
undiscovered beauty, vibrant cities, welcoming
people and a rich culture, Nigeria is increasingly
becoming the must-see destination. ■
River – Nana Kofi Acquah
Regatta
Durbar
Riyom Rock, near Jos.
64

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is proud to support Fascinating Nigeria.

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