A friend who lives in the western part of Nigeria got a job offer with an amazing pay in the north. After he accepted the job he broke the news to his family. They instantly forbade him from taking the job with comments like “there are only 10 people left in the north and you want to go there and die also!”
Now my friend’s family and the rest of the world have reasons to think that the north is inhabitable because of the numerous case of insurgency that has plagued the north but that should not be the end of the story. Hospitality has been a long standing trademark of the Arewa people, rich culture, festivals (the famous durbar) and amusing sceneries. We believe there is more to write and read from northern Nigeria’s story than local bombs and treacherous herdsmen.
This article reviews unique and exquisite tourist destinations that you haven’t heard of in northern Nigeria. Reflecting the rich beauties, culture and heritage of Arewa that for too long has been veiled beneath the scars of insurgence.
Fifth Chucker: Kangimi resorts, Kaduna State
This polo and country club happens to be the best there is in the north. Packed with entertaining yet adventurous activities like quad biking, horse riding/racing, sporting activities like tennis, pool tables, golf course and more. A trip to the spa here has been proven to be calming and worthwhile. A recommended getaway from the rest of the world in this soothing and tranquil ambiance. Who would say no to a safe haven? Did we mention that the food here is also fantabulous (yes, it’s allowed to say so) (plan a trip here).
Sheri hills Plateau State
Tourist visits to plateau state would be incomplete without a hike and the rippling hills of Sherri are perfects for that exact purpose. Place your feet in the ancient holes of the hills as you enjoy your hike around. A recommended location for on-hill picnics, outdoor camping and rock climbing.it is simply a perfect destination for nature enthusiast (Plan a trip here)
Gurara falls Niger state
gurara waterfalls Niger state
This show stopping waterfall with an outstanding splendor located between suleja and minna in Niger state, is a perfect stop when taking a road trip up north with just about an hour drive from the nations’ capital, Abuja. As fun as the waterfall sounds, the area close by gurara is covered with numerous species of birds and other wildlife. Swimming by the banks can be rejuvenating and is highly recommended during the dry season (January-march) when the water levels are low.
Sir Abubarkar Tafawa Balewa mausoleum, Bauchi State
An excellent way to know about the north is by learning about the people who gave voice to it, the founding father(s).Northern history can never be complete without the mention of Sir Abubarkar Tafawa Balewa; the first prime minister of the bride Nigeria. In Bauchi state lies the remains of this national treasure kept in a beautifully designed tomb named after him. Historic Artifacts from his childhood until his death are kept in the museum section for tourists to take a look at.(plan a trip here)
Yankari game reserve
Yankari, a large wildlife park in Bauchi state is Nigeria’s richest wildlife sanctuary with over 50 species of mammals ranging from elephants to African lions, hippopotamuses, monkeys, roan, and waterbuck with over 300 species of birds like the cattle egret, grey hornbill and others.no wonder Yankari falls among the popular eco-destinations in Africa and having this park in the northern Nigeria is a blessing.
A few miles from the park is the campsite for tourist named after the ever clear spring called Wikki Warm Spring of the park.(Plan a trip)