Nigeria

WARNING: Risk of Ebola in late 2014 - fairly contained cases, but caution should be exercised 

Types of trips: Nature, Historical, Wildlife, Adventure, Exploring/Hiking, Local Culture and History

Best known for: Most Populated Country in Africa, Aliko Dangote, Rapidly Growing Economy, Oil Business, Intercontinental Lagos, The UNN Nmandi Azikiwe Library

Why Go?: As the 7th most heavily populated country in the world, Nigeria is teeming with both brand new developments and ancient towns. The developing main cities hold many great museums and galleries tracing the local culture back through time, and the savannahs and National Parks inbetween the urban areas have an abundance of fascinating wildlife - it's a country full of things to learn and discover about a culture and way of life different from most things we are used to in the UK.

Fact File

Population: 175,000,000

Capital: Ajuba

Language(s): English

Ties to the UK?: Formerly a British Colony - sustained a good relationship ever since

Landscape: Beaches, Rainforests, Highlands, Mountains, Savannah

Climate/Seasons: Tropical climate in the southern regions and colder up north. November - March is the dry season with the warmer days but cold nights, and April - October sees the wet season and lower general temperatures. The coastal areas have high humidty and have generally warmer nights than inland regions.

When to Go: Generally warm all year round, but the humidity and heat are less intense from December to March and would be the best time to visit. 

Reasons to Visit: Geographically very diverse and has a lot of unique wildlife - a great range of places to visit, including the big city of Laos. A place to go to see a wide variety of things all in one place

How to Get There: Flying is really your only option to get to Nigeria, and the main international airport is close to the busy city of Laos - once in the country, there is a national road network connecting the main towns, with some trains and buses also available.

Places to Go: Lagos, Kano, Yankari National Park, Gashaka-Gumti Park, The Nike Art Galleries, Jos, Eleko Beach

Famous People: Fela Kuti, Asa, Aliko Dangote, Hakeem Olajuwon

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Matsirga Waterfalls, Osun Sacred Forest, Zuma Rock, Gurara Falls

History: Slave Trade history, Civil War in late 1960's, Involvment in the oil business for many decades

Architecture: Iga Idunganran, Taiwo Olowo's Monument, Tafawa Balewa Square, National Assembly Building, Abuja National Mosque, National Church of Nigeria (Abuja)

Culture: Islam and Christian religions, Literature, Music, Richly flavoured food

Sport: Football, Basketball

Events: Sallah and other religious festivals and holidays, Durbar Horse Festival

Watch Out For: Late 2014 outbreak of Ebola and some civil unrest - check here for current updates on the situation in the country. Visas are required for UK citizens travelling into Nigeria, make sure to allow plenty of time for the process; a high number of applications may also take longer! Asthmatics may have trouble with the Saharan dust that blows through the country in the November - March period. Travellers should be considerate of local culture and religions, and should dress modestly, especially in places of worship.

Medical Issues: Information here or consult your doctor.

Watch this video about visiting Nigeria!