Abuja is the gazelle of the North-Central, a center piece of opulence that retained its name as Nigeria’s capital for decades now. But not many people, I mean citizens, are familiar with how it tucked up to power.
Let’s take a trip and skip around Abuja.
Abuja
Abuja, situated at the heart of Nigeria, serves as the nation’s capital and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Established through meticulous planning in the 1980s, it officially replaced Lagos as Nigeria’s capital on December 12, 1991.
Over time, Abuja has evolved into one of Africa’s wealthiest urban areas, attracting some of the continent’s wealthiest individuals.
The presence of numerous governmental institutions, businesses, and foreign embassies has led to significant growth and investment in the city. This made the area rank high among the fastest-growing cities globally.
Abuja shares borders on the north with Kaduna State, on the southeast with Nasarawa State, on the southwest with Kogi State, and on the west with Niger State.
Population Growth and Urban Expansion
The city’s rapid population growth has spurred the development of satellite towns like Karu, Nyanya, Suleja, Gwagwalada, and Kuje.
This expansion has been driven by the concentration of governmental institutions, businesses, and foreign embassies, propelling Abuja to prominence as one of the fastest-growing cities globally.
Historical Roots of Abuja
Abuja’s history traces back to the southwestern part of the ancient Habe (Hausa) kingdom of Zazzau (Zaria). Initially inhabited by semi-independent tribes such as the Hausa, Gbagyi Koro, and Gwari, Abuja emerged as a major commercial and trade center under the rule of King Abubakar in the early 19th century.
Despite British colonial occupation in 1902, Abuja retained its identity until Nigeria’s government decided to relocate the capital from Lagos.
Based on tradition, the original inhabitants of Abuja lived at the base of the rock for centuries without being conquered. For them, the rock was a refuge as well as a mystical source of strength.
Aso Koro, which was the name of one of the local areas, means ‘people of victory’. And today, the term Aso Rock is used to refer to the physical structure of the most imposing rock in Abuja and a symbol of government power as well.
Relocation from Lagos to Abuja
Lagos, plagued by population pressures and ethno-political tensions, prompted the search for a new capital city.
Abuja, selected from 33 potential sites, offered favorable conditions such as land availability, centrality, and ethnic accord. With the cooperation of the Emirate Council and approval for land usage, Abuja was established as the new capital territory, symbolizing unity and neutrality in Nigeria.
Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA)
The management and administration of Abuja fall under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), established by President Olusegun Obasanjo on December 31, 2004. The FCTA oversees various aspects of Abuja’s governance, with a minister appointed by the President to lead its affairs.
Cultural Diversity and Economic Vitality
Abuja’s strategic location and planned development have attracted a diverse population representing various ethnic groups and religions in Nigeria. While English serves as the official language, a rich mix of languages and cultures thrives within the city. Moreover, Abuja’s economic vitality is sustained by mineral resources like tin, gold, and marble, managed by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) under the FCTA.
From its humble origins as a refuge and trade center to its modern-day status as Nigeria’s administrative hub, Abuja’s journey embodies resilience, unity, and progress.
Abuja remains a testament to Nigeria’s aspirations for national cohesion and development.
Abuja In Phases
Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, was planned in five phases covering 1,000 sq km and aimed to accommodate 3 million people by 2010. Each phase includes districts for various purposes, with Phase 1 being the most affluent, housing premium residential and commercial areas like Asokoro and Maitama.
Phase 2 features well-developed neighborhoods similar to Phase 1, including Apo-Dutse and Gudu.
Phase 3, further from the city center, is still evolving, offering affordable properties and commercial activities in districts like Gwarinpa and Lokogoma.
Phase 4 lacks infrastructure and development, with allocated land awaiting construction in districts like Gwagwa and Ketti.
Phase 5 includes satellite towns near Abuja’s airport road, such as Kyami and Lugbe.
Additionally, suburban districts like Kubwa and Nyanya, though not part of the original plan, have seen some development due to their proximity to the capital.
Abuja boasts notable landmarks like the Presidential Complex and the National Mosque, along with hosting diplomatic missions and serving as the headquarters for ECOWAS and OPEC.
Water comes from the Usman Dam, and telecommunications are managed by NITEL and private companies.
