Country | Nigeria |
Population | 1693400 |
Area | 1,476 km2 (570 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+01:00 (WAT) |
Coordinates | 9.05785, 7.49508 |
Highest elevation | 360 m (1,180 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Abuja, Nigeria’s capital and the eighth most populous city in the country, stands as a modern marvel of urban planning. Established as the capital in 1991, Abuja was built from scratch to replace Lagos as the seat of government. This was part of a strategic move to centralize administrative functions and alleviate congestion in Lagos. The city’s development was guided by a master plan crafted by the American firm International Planning Associates, which included Wallace, Roberts, McHarg & Todd (WRMT), Archi Systems International, and Planning Research Corporation.
Geographically, Abuja is situated in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), roughly in the center of Nigeria. The city is characterized by striking natural landmarks such as Aso Rock, a massive 400-meter (1,300 ft) monolith that dominates the skyline and serves as a focal point for the Presidential Complex, the National Assembly, and the Supreme Court. To the north, Zuma Rock, standing at 792 meters (2,598 ft), is a prominent feature along the road to Kaduna.
At the 2006 census, Abuja had a population of about 776,298 across 179,674 households. This figure placed it among the top ten most populous cities in Nigeria. However, its growth has been nothing short of explosive. The city witnessed a staggering 139.7% increase in population between 2000 and 2010, making it the fastest-growing city globally during that period. By 2016, the metropolitan area was estimated to house around six million people, firmly positioning it as Nigeria’s second-largest urban area after Lagos.
Abuja’s rapid growth is fueled by its role as the country’s administrative and political capital. It is a hub for governmental and international affairs, hosting significant events such as the 2003 Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting and the 2014 World Economic Forum (Africa). Its status as a purpose-built city contributes to its high levels of organization and modern infrastructure. The city is also known for its religious landmarks, including the Nigerian National Mosque and the Nigerian National Christian Centre.
The city benefits from a robust economy and is recognized as one of the wealthiest in Nigeria. Abuja is well-equipped with amenities and services, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, which facilitates domestic and international travel. As a testament to its significance, Abuja joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities in 2016, underscoring its commitment to educational and developmental goals.
Overall, Abuja represents a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, serving as a critical administrative and cultural center in Nigeria and Africa. Its continued expansion and development reflect its growing importance on the global stage.
Leave a Reply