View source for Abuja

{{Short description|Capital of the Federal Republic of Nigeria}}
{{Use Nigerian English|date=January 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2022}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name               = Abuja<!-- As shown for all cities, this is inherently and automatically viewed as the official name. No need for another field for "Official name". If you think "Abuja" is not the official name, then change it appropriately, otherwise don't add anything to it. -->
| native_name        = <!-- If there is evidence of Abuja having a native name such as "Èkó" for "Lagos", then add it here -->
| settlement_type    = [[Capital city|Federal capital city]] and [[local government areas of Nigeria|local government area]]
| image_skyline      = {{multiple image
| border      = infobox
| total_width = 280
| perrow      = 2/2/2/2/2/2
| image1 =
| caption1 = [[Aso Rock Villa]]
| image2 =  The_National_Assembly_Globe.jpg
| caption2 = [[National Assembly Complex]]
| image3 =
| caption3 = [[Supreme Court of Nigeria|Supreme Court Complex]]
| image4 =
| caption4 = [[National Security Adviser (Nigeria)|ONSA Building]]
| image5 = Catedral_Nacional_em_Abuja,_Nigéria.jpg
| caption5 = [[National Christian Centre]]
| image6 = AbujaMosque.JPG 
| caption6 = [[Abuja National Mosque|National Mosque]]
| image7 = Aso_Rock_,_Abuja.jpg
| caption7 = [[Aso Rock]]
| image8 =
| caption8 = [[Millennium Park (Abuja)]]
| image9 = Central bank nigeria.jpg
| caption9 = [[Central Bank of Nigeria|Central Bank Headquarters]]
| image10 =
| caption10 = [[Transcorp Hotels Plc]]
| image11 = ABUJA_STADIUM.jpg
| caption11 = [[Moshood Abiola National Stadium]]
| image12 = Штаб-квартира_ЭКОВАС_в_Абудже,_Нигерия.jpg
| caption12 = [[ECOWAS|ECOWAS Secretariat]] 
| image13 =
| caption13 = [[Abuja Light Rail|Abuja Rail Mass Transit]]


}}
| nickname           = ABJ
| image_map          = 
| map_caption        = Location of Abuja in Nigeria
| pushpin_map        = Nigeria#Africa
| pushpin_relief     = 1
| coordinates        = {{Coord|9|4|N|7|29|E|region:NG_type:city(778567)|display=inline,title}}
| mapframe = yes
| mapframe-zoom = 8
| mapframe-wikidata = yes
| mapframe-marker = village
| subdivision_type   = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
| subdivision_name   = [[Nigeria]]
| subdivision_type1  = [[States of Nigeria|Territory]]
| subdivision_name1  = [[Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)|Federal Capital]]
| established_title  = Settled
| established_date   = 1828
| established_title1 = [[Municipal corporation|Incorporated]]
| established_date1  = 1 October 1984
| established_title2 = Declared capital
| established_date2  = 12 December 1991
| named_for          = [[Abu Ja]]
| leader_title       = [[Minister of the Federal Capital Territory]]
| leader_name        = [[Nyesom Wike]]
| area_footnotes     = <ref name="City Population">{{cite web | url=http://www.citypopulation.de/php/nigeria-admin.php?adm1id=NGA015 | title=Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria) | publisher=City Population | access-date=29 October 2022}}</ref>
| area_total_km2     = 1,476
| area_water_km2     = 
| area_land_km2      = 
| elevation_m        = 360
| area_urban_km2     = 927
| population_total   = 1,693,400
| population_as_of   = 2022 estimate
| population_footnotes = <ref name="City Population" />
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_urban_km2 = 4066
| population_rank    = [[List of Nigerian cities by population|7th]]
| population_urban   = 3,770,000<ref name="Demographia" />
| population_metro   = 4,025,000<ref>{{cite web | url=https://worldpopulationreview.com/cities/nigeria/abuja | title=Abuja 2024}}</ref>
| population_note    = 
| postal_code_type   = Postal codes
| postal_code        = 900211–900288
| website            = {{URL|fcta.gov.ng}} {{URL|fcda.gov.ng}} {{URL|myfctagov.ng}} 
| timezone           = [[West Africa Time|WAT]]
| utc_offset         = +01:00
| blank_name         = [[Köppen climate classification|Climate]]
| blank_info         = [[Tropical savanna climate|Aw]]
| image_flag         = Flag of Abuja.svg
| flag_alt           = Flag of Federal Capital Territory
| image_seal         = Emblem of of Abuja Federal Capital Territory.png
| seal_size          = 
| seal_alt           = Seal of Federal Capital Territory
| government_type    = [[City manager|City management]]
| governing_body     = Abuja Metropolitan Management Council
}}<!-- Infobox ends !-->

'''Abuja''' ({{IPAc-en|ə|ˈ|b|uː|dʒ|ə}} {{respell|ə|BOO|jə}}, {{Langx|yo|Àbújá}} {{ipa|yo|àbúd͡ʒá}}) is the capital city of the [[Federal Republic of Nigeria]],<ref>{{cite web |title=Abuja {{!}} Geography, Development, & Population  |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Abuja-national-capital-Nigeria |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=Britannica |language=en}}</ref> strategically situated at the geographic midpoint of the country within the [[Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)|Federal Capital Territory]] (FCT). As the seat of the [[Federal Government of Nigeria]], it hosts key national institutions, landmarks, and buildings spread across its over 50 districts. It replaced [[Lagos]] (the most populous city in Nigeria) as the capital on 12 December 1991.<ref>Roman Adrian Cybriwsky, ''Capital Cities around the World: An Encyclopedia of Geography, History, and Culture'', ABC-CLIO, USA, 2013, p. 2</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite book|last=Alkasum|first=Abba|title=ABUJA: The making of a capital city, 1976–2006|year=2012}}</ref>

Abuja's [[geography]] is defined by [[Aso Rock]], a 400 metres [[monolith]] left by [[water erosion]]. The [[Nigerian Presidential Complex|Presidential Complex]], [[Nigerian National Assembly|National Assembly]],<ref>{{cite web|title=National Assembly {{!}} Federal Republic of Nigeria|url=https://www.nassnig.org/|website=www.nassnig.org|access-date=2020-05-30}}</ref> [[Nigerian Supreme Court|Supreme Court]], and much of the city extend to the south of the rock. [[Zuma Rock]], a 725 metres monolith, lies just north of the city on the [[Controlled-access highway|expressway]] to [[Kaduna (city)|Kaduna]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Zuma Rock |url=https://www.visitnigerianow.com/tours/zuma-rock/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627170359/https://www.visitnigerianow.com/tours/zuma-rock/ |archive-date=27 June 2022 |access-date=2022-01-04 |website=Visit Nigeria Now |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Alofetekun |first=Akin |date=2008-05-28 |title=All Eyes on Zuma Rock |url=http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/features/citysun/2008/may/28/citysun-28-05-2008-002.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100323002129/http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/features/citysun/2008/may/28/citysun-28-05-2008-002.htm |archive-date=2010-03-23 |access-date=2025-04-27 |work=[[The Sun (Nigeria)|The Sun]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ngwan |first=Nenpan |date=2023-09-21 |title=Highest Rock in Nigeria: The Top 10 Biggest Rocks and Hills |url=https://buzznigeria.com/highest-rock-in-nigeria-the-top-10-biggest-rocks-and-hills/ |access-date=2025-04-28 |website=buzznigeria.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

At the 2006 [[census]], the city of Abuja had a population of 776,298<ref name="plac" /> and 179,674 households<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Ogwueleka |first=Toochukwu Chibueze |date=2013-08-01 |title=Survey of household waste composition and quantities in Abuja, Nigeria |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921344913001304 |journal=Resources, Conservation and Recycling |language=en |volume=77 |pages=52–60 |doi=10.1016/j.resconrec.2013.05.011 |issn=0921-3449|url-access=subscription }}</ref> making it one of the [[List of Nigerian cities by population|ten most populous cities in Nigeria]] (eighth place in 2006). According to the United Nations, Abuja grew by 139.7% between 2000 and 2010, making it the fastest-growing city in the world.<ref name="euromonitor2010" /> {{As of|2015}}, the city is experiencing an annual growth of at least 35%, retaining its position as the fastest-growing city on the African continent and one of the fastest-growing in the world.<ref name="abujafacts5" /><ref>{{Cite book|last=Aguochi|first=O.J.J|title=Abuja: Birth of the colossus|publisher=Stirling Horden publishers|year=2004}}</ref>

Major religious sites include the [[Nigerian National Mosque]] and the [[Nigerian National Christian Centre]]. The city is served by the [[Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cheap Flights To Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport – Travelstart.com.ng |url=https://www.travelstart.com.ng/lp/airports/cheap-flights-nnamdi-azikiwe-international-airport |access-date=2022-11-07 |website=www.travelstart.com.ng |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-28 |title=Abuja airport clocks 40, to begin parking service |url=https://punchng.com/abuja-airport-clocks-40-to-begin-parking-service/ |access-date=2022-11-07 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Making Nigerian Airports W'Africa Regional Hub |url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2022/10/14/making-nigerian-airports-wafrica-regional-hub/ |access-date=2022-11-07 |website=www.thisdaylive.com}}</ref> Abuja is known for being one of the few purpose-built capital cities in Africa, as well as being one of the wealthiest.<ref name="bbc" />

Abuja is Nigeria's [[Administration (government)|administrative]] and political capital. It is also a key capital on the African continent due to Nigeria's [[geo-political|geopolitical]] influence in regional affairs.<ref name="amlsnconference"/> Abuja is also a conference centre and hosts various meetings annually, such as the 2003 [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] Heads of Government meeting and the 2014 World Economic Forum (Africa) meetings.<ref name="amlsnconference"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Aso Rock Declaration on Development and Democracy: Partnership for Peace and Prosperity |url=https://thecommonwealth.org/aso-rock-declaration-development-and-democracy-partnership-peace-and-prosperity|website=The Commonwealth |date=December 2003 |access-date=2020-05-30|archive-date=26 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126171843/https://thecommonwealth.org/aso-rock-declaration-development-and-democracy-partnership-peace-and-prosperity|url-status=dead}}</ref> Abuja joined the [[UNESCO]] Global Network of Learning Cities in 2016.

== History ==
[[File:National Assembly Building with Mace, Abuja, Nigeria.jpg|thumb|[[National Assembly (Nigeria)|National Assembly]] Building with Mace, Abuja, Nigeria]]
[[File:Abuja Millenium Park 2019 01.jpg|thumb|Millenium Park]]
Abuja was in the early 20th century the name of the nearby town now called [[Suleja]].<ref name="fcda-about">{{cite web|title=The New Federal Capital|url=http://fcda.gov.ng/index.php/about-fcda/the-new-federal-capital|website=Federal Capital Development Authority |language=en-gb|date=2018|access-date=20 May 2018|archive-date=19 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200519161443/https://fcda.gov.ng/index.php/about-fcda/the-new-federal-capital|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The indigenous inhabitants of Abuja are the Abawa (Ganagana), [[Basa languages|Basa]], [[Gwandara]], [[Gbagyi]] (Gwari) having the majority population in the region. Other groups in the area include Egburra, [[Nupe people|Nupe]] and [[Koro]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Barnabas |first=Sylvanus Gbendazhi |date=2018-08-03 |title=Abuja Peoples of Nigeria as Indigenous Peoples in International Law |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/15718115-02502002 |journal=International Journal on Minority and Group Rights |volume=25 |issue=3 |pages=431–457 |doi=10.1163/15718115-02502002 |s2cid=150133231 |issn=1385-4879|url-access=subscription }}</ref>

The [[Gwandara]] speaking people in Federal Capital Territory are mostly found in AMAC and [[Bwari]] Area Council.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The “Gwandara Speaking” People of Gwagwa – Abuja – GWADECA |url=https://gwadeca.org.ng/2020/09/05/the-gwandara-speaking-people-of-gwagwa/ |access-date=2025-02-25 |language=en-US}}</ref> Some of their villages/settlements are Wuse, Asokoro now relocated to Sabon Wuse, Aso in Niger and other neighbouring states. Others are [[Karshi Abuja|Karshi]], [[Kurudu, Abuja|Kurudu]], [[Nyanya (Abuja)|Nyanya]], [[Idu, Abuja|Idu]], [[Gwagwa]], [[Jiwa, Abuja|Jiwa]], [[Sheretti]], [[Karmo, Abuja|Karmo]], Takunshara, [[Burum, Abuja|Burum]], [[Dutse Alhaji]], [[Zuba, Nigeria|Zuba]], [[Kuje]], [[Kwoi]], [[Karon-Magaji]], [[Ija]], [[Kanwu]], [[Sherre|and Sherre]].
<ref>{{cite web|title=Abuja|url=http://www.oaugf.ng/6thawam2016/index.php/about/abuja|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220105033527/http://www.oaugf.ng/6thawam2016/index.php/about/abuja |archive-date=Jan 5, 2022 }}</ref> In light of the ethnic and religious [[Demographics of Nigeria|divisions of Nigeria]], plans had been devised since Nigeria's independence to have its capital in a place deemed neutral to all major ethnic parties, and also near all the regions of Nigeria. The location was eventually designated in the centre of the country in the early 1970s as it signified neutrality and national unity.<ref>{{cite web|title=Abuja {{!}} Geography, Development, & Population |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Abuja-national-capital-Nigeria|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Britannica|language=en}}</ref> 

Another impetus for Abuja came because of [[Lagos]]' population boom that made that city overcrowded and conditions squalid.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Makinde |first1=Adeyinka |title=Abuja: Constructing Nigeria's Federal Capital {{!}} Ambitious Plans, Corrupt Practices {{!}} 1983 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPxOIU0-nlE&ab_channel=AdeyinkaMakinde |website=Youtube |date=15 May 2020 |access-date=6 September 2020}}</ref> As Lagos was already undergoing rapid economic development, the Nigerian government felt the need to expand the economy towards the inner part of the country, and hence decided to move its capital to Abuja.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/574434-nigeriaat55-top-5-reasons-nigerias-capital-moved-lagos-abuja-photos.html|title=#NigeriaAt55: Top 5 Reasons Nigeria's Capital Was Moved From Lagos To Abuja (PHOTOS)|first=Omotayo|last=Yusuf|date=1 October 2015}}</ref> The logic used was similar to the way Brazil planned its capital, [[Brasília]].

The Federal Military Government of Nigeria promulgated Decree No. 6 on 4 February 1976, which initiated the removal of the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja.<ref name="The Political History of Nigeria's">{{cite journal |last1=Moore |first1=Jonathan |title=The Political History of Nigeria's New Capital |journal=The Journal of Modern African Studies |date=March 1984 |volume=22 |issue=1 |pages=167–175 |doi=10.1017/S0022278X00056846 |jstor=160334 |s2cid=154848195 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/160334 |access-date=23 September 2020|url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref name="naij-why">{{cite web|last1=Yusuf|first1=Omotayo|title=Why The Capital Was Moved From Lagos To Abuja|url=https://www.naija.ng/574434-nigeriaat55-top-5-reasons-nigerias-capital-moved-lagos-abuja-photos.html#574434|website=Naija.ng – Nigeria news.|date=1 October 2015}}</ref> The initial work for Abuja's planning and implementation was carried out by the Military Government of General [[Murtala Mohammed]] and [[Olusegun Obasanjo]]. However, the foundation of Abuja was under the Administration of Shehu Shagari in 1979.<ref name="The Political History of Nigeria's" /> Construction started in 1979 but, due to economic and political instability, the initial stages of the city were not complete until the late 1980s.<ref>{{Cite book|last=FCDA|title=Abuja: The Making of new Capital city for Nigeria|year=1988}}</ref>

The move of Nigeria's Capital to Abuja was controversial, and the biggest opposition to it was led by [[Obafemi Awolowo]].<ref name="jstor.org">{{cite journal |last1=Moore |first1=Jonathan |title=The Political History of Nigeria's New Capital |journal=The Journal of Modern African Studies |date=March 1984 |volume=22 |issue=1 |page=173 |doi=10.1017/S0022278X00056846 |jstor=160334 |s2cid=154848195 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/160334 |access-date=22 September 2020|url-access=subscription }}</ref> Awolowo, as a politician and a representative of the Yoruba people, defended their claims against the move of the Capital from Lagos. During the hotly-contested campaign for the presidency, he vowed to hire the American [[Walt Disney Company]] to convert the new site (Abuja) into an amusement park if he was elected.<ref name="jstor.org" /> However, after his election as president, Alhaji [[Shehu Shagari]] laid the first foundation for Abuja's infrastructure and pushed for its early completion. His first journey outside of Lagos after his election was to Abuja, where he visited contractors and workers on site to urge a speedy completion of the project. On his return, he confided in Alhaji [[Abubakar Koko]] his disappointment with the slow progress of work.<ref name="jstor.org" /> Shehu Shagari rescheduled the planned relocation to Abuja from 1986 to 1992 which later proved difficult.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Moore |first1=Jonathan |title=The Political History of Nigeria's New Capital |journal=The Journal of Modern African Studies |date=March 1984 |volume=22 |issue=1 |page=174 |doi=10.1017/S0022278X00056846 |jstor=160334 |s2cid=154848195 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/160334 |access-date=22 September 2020|url-access=subscription }}</ref>

The International Planning Associates (IPA) was commissioned in June 1977, by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Federal Capital Development Authority – Builders of Abuja, Nigeria |url=http://fcda.gov.ng/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |language=en-US}}</ref> to produce the Abuja Master Plan and its regional grid.<ref>{{cite book|last=Elleh|first= Nnamdi|title= Abuja, the single most ambitious urban design project of the 20th century|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=huHVAAAAMAAJ&q=+%22Wallace%2C+McHarg%2C+Roberts+and+Todd%22|year= 2001|publisher= VDG, Verlag und Datenbank für Geisteswissenschaften|isbn= 978-3-89739-165-9}}</ref> According to the terms of reference, the master planning process was to include a review of relevant data, selection of a capital city site, preparation of regional and city plans and the accompanying design and development standards manual.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Shuaibu |first1=Umar |title=Unsung heroes of Abuja master plan |date=16 March 2020 |url=https://viewpointhousingnews.com/2020/03/16/unsung-heroes-of-abuja-master-plan/ |access-date=22 September 2020 |archive-date=21 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021071518/https://viewpointhousingnews.com/2020/03/16/unsung-heroes-of-abuja-master-plan/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

IPA did not exist before the  with an internationally reputable firm to design the master plan. IPA was formed by a consortium of three American firms which won the worldwide competitive bidding. The firms were Planning Research Corporation (PRC), Wallace, McHarg, Roberts and Todd, and Archisystems (a division of the Hughes Organisation). After winning the bid, and completing the project, the firms were disbanded.

The final report was submitted to the pioneer Executive Secretary of FCDA, Alhaji [[Abubakar Koko]], on 15 February 1979. In the preface to the master plan, the following declaration was made by IPA:
{{Blockquote|text="The master plan for Abuja the new Capital City of Nigeria represents the culmination of 18 months' work by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) board, and several advisory panel consultants. Without the unstinting efforts of these experts, the momentum now exhibited at the beginning of the actual implementation of the new capital could not have been achieved. The plan itself represents a milestone in the process of building the new capital city. It is a necessary element in the monumental effort about to be undertaken by the Nigerian people."}}

The master plan for Abuja defined the general structure and major design elements of the city that are now visible. More detailed design of the central areas of the capital, particularly its monumental core, was accomplished by Japanese architect [[Kenzo Tange]], with his team of city planners at Kenzo Tange and Urtec company.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Alkasum|first=Abba|title=Abuja: The Making of a Capital City, 1976–2006|year=2012}}</ref> Most countries relocated their [[embassy|embassies]] to Abuja, and many maintain their former embassies as [[Consul (representative)|consulates]] in [[Lagos]], the commercial capital of Nigeria.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adam |first=Ibrahim |date=2025-03-13 |title=Lagos GDP hits $259b, becomes Africa’s 2nd largest city economy |url=https://thenationonlineng.net/lagos-gdp-hits-259b-becomes-africas-2nd-largest-city-economy/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=The Nation Newspaper |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigeria's commercial capital, Lagos, shuts schools amid COVID-19 |website=[[Reuters]] |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-nigeria-lagos-idUSKBN28S2S4 |access-date=11 February 2024}}</ref> Abuja is the headquarters of the [[ECOWAS|Economic Community of West African States]] (ECOWAS) and the regional headquarters of [[OPEC]]. Abuja and the FCT have experienced huge population growth; it has been reported that some areas around Abuja have been growing at 20% to 30% per year.<ref name="WBC">{{cite web |url=https://www.abuad.edu.ng/lagos-recognition-as-commercial-capital-city-of-nigeria/https://www.abuad.edu.ng/lagos-recognition-as-commercial-capital-city-of-nigeria/ |title=World Bank Conference: African Regional Roundtable on Upgrading Low-income Settlements |access-date=2007-08-10 |work=citiesalliance.org |publisher=World Bank, 3–5 October 2000, Johannesburg, South Africa, p. 16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928045105/http://www.citiesalliance.org/cdsdb.nsf/Attachments/South%2BAfrica%2Broundtable/%24File/African%2BRegional%2BRoundtable%2Bon%2BUpgrading%2BOct00.pdf |archive-date=28 September 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Squatter settlements and towns have spread rapidly in and outside the city limits.<ref name="bbc" /><ref name="fig">{{cite web |url=http://www.fig.net/pub/accra/papers/ts18/ts18_01_jibril.pdf|title=Resettlement Issues, Squatter Settlements and the Problems of Land Administration in Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital|access-date=2007-08-10 |work=fig.net |publisher=5th FIG Regional Conference Accra, Ghana, 8–11 March 2006}}</ref> Tens of thousands of people have been [[eviction|evicted]] since former FCT minister [[Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai]] started a demolition campaign in 2003.<ref name="NYT">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/13/world/africa/13abuja.html |title=In a Dream City, a Nightmare for the Common Man |access-date=2007-08-10 |work=nyt.com |publisher=New York Times, 13 December 2006 | first=Lydia | last=Polgreen | date=13 December 2006}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Ekoko|first=K.O|title=El – Rufai and Abuja Urban renewal policies|year=2006}}</ref>
Abuja is a [[planned community|planned city]] built mainly in the 1980s based on a [[Comprehensive planning|master plan]] by International Planning Associates (IPA),<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ogbuenyi |first=Nosike |date=2022-02-03 |title=Abuja at 46: The Dreams, Strides, Challenges |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/features-and-interviews/509441-abuja-at-46-the-dreams-strides-challenges.html |access-date=2022-11-07 |website=Premium Times Nigeria |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref name="amlsnconference">{{Cite web |title=The Nigeria Capital City |website=AMLSN National Conference |url=https://amlsnconference.org/the-nigeria-capital-city/ |access-date=2022-11-07 |language=en-GB |archive-date=26 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220226000031/https://amlsnconference.org/the-nigeria-capital-city/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Balogun |first=Ola |title=The Federal capital territory of Nigeria: A Geography of its development |publisher=University of Ibadan Press |year=2001 |location=Ibadab |language=English}}</ref> a consortium of three [[United States|American]] planning and [[architecture]] firms made up of Wallace, Roberts, McHarg & Todd (WRMT – a group of architects) as the lead, Archi systems International (a subsidiary of the Howard Hughes Corporation), and Planning Research Corporation. The Central Business [[District]] of Abuja was designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange.<ref name="Tange">{{cite web|title=Central area of New Federal Capital City of Nigeria|url=https://en.tangeweb.com/works/works_no-66/|access-date=2022-02-19|website=Tange Associates|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref name="bbc">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/6355269.stm|title=Life of poverty in Abuja's wealth|access-date=2007-08-10 |work=news.bbc.co.uk |publisher=BBC News, Tuesday, 13 February 2007 | date=13 February 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=titel |title=Build a house in Japan {{!}} Connect with Japanese Architects {{!}} titel |url=https://titel.jp/en |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=titel (タイテル) |language=en}}</ref>

== Administration ==
The [[Abuja Municipal Area Council]] (AMAC) is the [[Local government areas of Nigeria|local government]] authority responsible for administering the city of Abuja. It operates under the oversight of the [[Federal Capital Territory Administration]] (FCTA), which governs the entire [[Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)|Federal Capital Territory]] (FCT). The AMAC's chairman is responsible for leading the council's activities and representing the interests of the municipality's residents.<ref>{{Citation |last1=Olokesusi |first1=Femi |title=Smart Metropolitan Regional Development of Abuja and Its Region |date=2019 |work=Smart Metropolitan Regional Development: Economic and Spatial Design Strategies |pages=797–825 |editor-last=Vinod Kumar |editor-first=T.M. |url=https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-8588-8_14 |access-date=2024-04-23 |place=Singapore |publisher=Springer |language=en |doi=10.1007/978-981-10-8588-8_14 |isbn=978-981-10-8588-8 |last2=Aiyegbajeje |first2=Femi Ola |last3=Arije |first3=Ibitayo Modupe|url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=ABUJA METROPOLITAN MANAGEMENT COUNCIL – Federal Capital Territory – FCT – Abuja – Nigeria |url=http://fcta.gov.ng/ova_dep/abuja-metropolitan-management-council/ |access-date=2024-04-23 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Federal Government of Nigeria|title=Government's views on the Report of the Panel on the decree N0.6. 1976|year=1991}}</ref> The Minister of the FCT, [[Nyesom Wike]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ogbuenyi |first=Nosike |date=2023-08-21 |title=The significance of Wike's appointment as FCT minister, By Nosike Ogbuenyi |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/opinion/617065-the-significance-of-wikes-appointment-as-fct-minister-by-nosike-ogbuenyi.html |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Premium Times Nigeria |language=en-GB}}</ref> heads the FCTA while AMAC's chairman is Christopher Zaka Maikalangu.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kwen |first=James |date=2022-02-13 |title=Abuja polls: PDP wins 3 chairmanship, APC gets two |url=https://businessday.ng/news/article/abuja-polls-pdp-wins-3-chairmanship-apc-gets-two/ |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Businessday NG |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Abuchi |first=Joe |date=2024-04-22 |title=AMAC chairman pledges quick completion of Kugbo road |url=https://authorityngr.com/2024/04/22/amac-chairman-pledges-quick-completion-of-kugbo-road/ |access-date=2024-04-23 |website=THE AUTHORITY NEWS |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Phases ===
[[File:Hilton, Abuja.jpg|thumb|Hilton, Abuja]]
[[File:Sheraton, Abuja.jpg|thumb|Sheraton, Abuja]]
[[File:Catedral Nacional em Abuja, Nigéria.jpg|thumb|upright|[[National Church of Nigeria|National Christian Centre]]]]
[[File:AbujaNationalMosque.jpg|thumb|Abuja National Mosque]]
For ease and co-ordination of developmental efforts, the city was divided into 'Phases' by its planners, with the city's development taking a concentric form with Phase 1, which consists of the city's inner districts-Central Area, [[Maitama]], [[Asokoro]], [[Wuse]], Wuse II, [[Garki, Abuja|Garki]], [[Garki II]], [[Guzape]] and [[Guzape II]]-at its core spreading out from the foot of Aso Rock, while Phase 5, consisting of the newly created Kyami District covering the vicinity of the [[Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=NAIA, Abuja. |url=https://faan.gov.ng/naia-abuja/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=FAAN |language=en-GB}}</ref> and the permanent campus of the [[University of Abuja]], over 40 kilometres west of Aso Rock. Each Phase is separated from the other by an expressway (some still under construction); for example, Phases 1 and 2 are separated from each other by the [[Nnamdi Azikiwe]] expressway, while the entirety of the city proper (Phases 1–5) is enclosed by the Murtala Muhammed (Outer Northern-ONEX and Outer Southern-OSEX) expressways as well as the Federal A2 highway which traverses the Federal Capital Territory on its way to Kaduna (north-bound) and Lokoja (south-bound). Thus, there is an integration of the city's road network with the Federal highway network, providing access to the immediate outlying countryside and the surrounding states of the country i.e. Niger State to the west, Kaduna State to the north, Nasarawa State to the east and Kogi State to the south.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-08 |title=Road Construction: Motorists Spend Hours In Zuba Traffic Gridlock |url=https://dailytrust.com/road-construction-motorists-spend-hours-in-zuba-traffic-gridlock/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=Daily Trust |language=en-GB}}</ref>

Abuja is organised into phases, which are further divided into districts.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Galadima |first=Mukhtar |date=2022-10-27 |title=Population influx and Abuja's emerging districts |url=https://dailytrust.com/population-influx-and-abujas-emerging-districts/ |access-date=2024-04-23 |website=Daily Trust |language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Phase 1 ====

===== Asokoro District =====
{{Main article|Asokoro}}
[[Asokoro]], the [[doyen]] of the districts, houses all of the state's lodges/guesthouses. The [[ECOWAS]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Inaju-Challydoff |first=Daniel |title=Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) |url=https://www.ecowas.int/ |access-date=2024-06-27 |language=en}}</ref> secretariat is a focal point of interest. Asokoro is to the east of the Garki District and south of the Central District. It is one of the most exclusive districts of Abuja and houses virtually all of the federal cabinet ministers as well as most of the diplomatic community in the city; in addition, the Presidential Palace (commonly referred to as Aso Rock) is in Asokoro District. By virtue of this fact, [[Asokoro]] is the most secure area of the city.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Asokoro Abuja {{!}} Area Guide |url=https://www.villaafrika.com/asokoro-district-guide/ |access-date=2024-04-23 |website=Villa Afrika Realty |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Aga |first=Chiegeonu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IcmwBgAAQBAJ |title=Nigeria: State by State |publisher=Lulu.com |isbn=978-1-105-86432-2 |language=en}}</ref>

===== Central Business District =====
Abuja's [[Central District, Abuja|Central District]], also called Central Area, is a strip of land stretching from [[Aso Rock]] in the east to the National Stadium and the Old City gate in the West. It is like the city's spinal cord, dividing it into the northern sector with Maitama and Wuse, and the southern sector with Garki and Asokoro. While each district has its own demarcated commercial and residential sectors, the Central District is the city's principal Business Zone, where practically all parastatals and [[multinational corporations]] have their offices. An attractive area in the Central District is the region known as the '''Three Arms Zone''', so-called because it houses the administrative offices of the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of the federal government. A few of the other sites worth seeing in the area are the federal secretariats alongside [[Shehu Shagari]] Way, Aso Hill, the Abuja Plant Nursery, [[Eagle Square, Abuja|Eagle Square]] (which has important historic significance, as it was in this grounds that the present democratic dispensation had its origin on 29 May 1999) and in which all subsequent Presidential Inauguration ceremonies have taken place. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is situated across Shehu Shagari Way, facing Eagle Square. This section is usually closed to traffic during the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremonies, that is observed on 15 January. The [[Abuja National Mosque|National Mosque]] and [[National Christian Centre]] are opposite each other on either side of Independence Avenue.<ref>{{cite web |date=18 November 2012 |title=Independence Avenue |url=http://wikimapia.org/street/16260013/Independence-Ave |access-date=2013-08-30 |publisher=Wikimapia.org}}</ref> A well-known government office is the Ministry of Defense, colloquially nicknamed "Ship House".<ref>{{cite web |date=18 November 2012 |title=Ship House |url=http://wikimapia.org/9452603/Ministry-of-Defense-Ship-House |access-date=2013-08-30 |publisher=Wikimapia.org}}</ref> Also located here is the yet-to-be-completed National Square, Millennium tower and [[Nigeria]] Cultural Centre multi-functional complex.

===== Garki District =====
{{unreferenced section|date=January 2018}}
The [[Garki District, Abuja|Garki District]] is the area in the southwest corner of the city, having the Central District to the north and the Asokoro District to the east. The district is subdivided into units called "Areas". Garki uses a distinctive naming convention of "Area" to refer to parts of Garki. These are designated as Areas 1 to 11. Garki II is used to differentiate the area from Garki Area 2. Visitors may find this system confusing.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abuja City's Garki District - wtcf.travel |url=https://en.wtcf.org.cn/destination/2015-01/16/c_38841.htm |access-date=2023-05-17 |website=en.wtcf.org.cn}}</ref>

Garki is presently the principal business and administrative district of Abuja. Numerous buildings of interest are in this area. Some of them include the General Post Office, Abuja International Conference Centre along the busy Herbert Macaulay Way, Nicon Luxury Hotel (formally known as Abuja Sofitel Hotel and Le Meridian), Agura Hotel and Old Federal Secretariat Complex Buildings (Area 1).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bankole |first=Idowu |date=2025-06-04 |title=Tinubu commissions ICC June 10 |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/06/tinubu-commissions-icc-june-10/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Anuku |first=Williams |date=2025-06-10 |title=Tinubu Commissions Renovated International Conference Centre in Abuja |url=https://dailypost.ng/2025/06/10/tinubu-commissions-renovated-international-conference-centre-in-abuja/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> A new five-star hotel, Hawthorn Suites Abuja, is in Garki.

Area 2 is mainly used for residential purposes, although a zoological garden, as well as a small shopping centre, are to be found here as well. Several banks and other commercial offices are located along Moshood Abiola Way in Area 7. The headquarters of the [[Nigerian Armed Forces]] – Army, Airforce and Navy – is located on [[Muhammadu Buhari]] Way in the Garki District.

The tallest building in this district is the Radio House located in the Area 11 sector, which houses the Federal Ministry of Information and Communications, the [[Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria]] (FRCN) and [[Voice of Nigeria]] (VON). The [[Nigerian Television Authority]] (NTA) stations and corporate headquarters are also in Garki. The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) which oversees and runs the Administration of the Federal Capital Territory has its offices in Garki.

The Office of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory is in Area 11.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Office of the Minister – FCT Residents Engagement Platform |url=https://myfctagov.ng/index.php/person-category/office-of-the-minister/ |access-date=2023-05-17 |language=en-US}}</ref> This is the location of the Federal Capital Development Authority and other administrative buildings. A popular sub-neighbourhood here is found in the vicinity of Gimbiya Street because it has the unique characteristic of being a purely administrative zone on weekdays while transforming purely into an entertainment zone on weeknights and weekends.<ref>{{cite web |title=Abuja City Tour Guide |url=https://mmmhouse.org/abuja-city-tour-guide/ |access-date=2020-05-26 |website=mmmHouse Abuja! |language=en-US}}</ref>
[[File:Jabi_lake_mall.jpg|thumb|upright|Jabi lake mall]]
Other places of note include the [[Cyprian Ekwensi]] Arts & Culture Centre and The Nigerian Police Mobile Force CID (Criminal Investigation Department) headquarters in Area 10. The Abuja Municipal Area Council, which is the local government administration has its headquarters in Area 10. The new [[List of diplomatic missions of the United States|United States Embassy]] is in the Diplomatic Zone which adjoins Garki.

===== Guzape District =====

===== Maitama District =====
{{Main article|Maitama}}
{{unreferenced section|date=January 2018}}
[[File:Abuja_Millennium_Park.jpg|thumb|Millennium Park water fountain at night]]
Maitama District is to the north of the city, with the [[Wuse]] and Central Districts lying to its southwest and southeast, respectively. This area is home to the top-bracket sections of society and business and has the reputation of being very exclusive and very expensive. Interesting buildings include the Transcorp Hilton Abuja,<ref>{{cite web |title=Transcorp Hilton Abuja |url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/abuhitw-transcorp-hilton-abuja/ |access-date=23 April 2022 |publisher=Hilton Hotels and Resorts}}</ref> [[Nigerian Communications Commission]] Headquarters (NCC), [[National Universities Commission]] (NUC), Soil Conservation Complex, and [[Independent National Electoral Commission (Nigeria)|Independent National Electoral Commission]] (INEC).<ref>{{Cite web |last=USMAN |first=Mustapha |date=2025-04-30 |title=Varsities swell in South-West as NUC issues 11 fresh licences |url=https://www.icirnigeria.org/varsities-swell-in-south-west-as-nuc-issues-11-fresh-licences/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=The ICIR- Latest News, Politics, Governance, Elections, Investigation, Factcheck, Covid-19 |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-07 |title=INEC Chairman Yakubu Steps Down Early, Hands Over to Acting Chair Amid Succession Plans |url=https://www.thetimes.com.ng/2025/10/inec-chairman-yakubu-steps-down-early-hands-over-to-acting-chair-amid-succession-plans/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=TheTimes.com.ng |language=en-US}}</ref> The [[British High Commission]] is located along [[Aguiyi Ironsi]] Way, in Maitama.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-09-02 |title=Civil Society Groups Storm British High Commission Over $9.6bn Judgement + VIDEO |url=https://dailytrust.com/civil-society-groups-storm-british-high-commission-over-9-6bn-judgement/ |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=Daily Trust |language=en-GB}}</ref>

Also, the Maitama District Hospital is another notable building in Maitama. Maitama District is home to many of the European and Asian embassies.

====== Maitama II ======
Maitama II District Cadastral Zone A10 is a new district created by the FCT administration of [[Muhammed Bello]] in 2018. Maitama 2 as it is unofficially called was created from Mpape Hills, a suburb bothering the Bwari and Maitama Districts of the FCT. Maitama II has a high net worth of individuals especially legislators as allottees, which makes it a destination for real estate investors who desire to secure the future today.

It is not very clear what the government plans for the district as not much has been said by government agents, but cadastral zoning A indicates the government has good plans for Maitama 2 to correct some errors in Maitama District.
[[File:Abuja_Millenium_Park_2019_01.jpg|left|thumb|[[Millennium Park (Abuja)|Millennium Park]] in Maitama District]]
It was learned that plots of land were revoked from allottees of Mpape district to create the new Maitama II District, although a compensation plan is underway to relocate the revoked allottees to another district the government intends to create. Fortunately, some developers of the Mpape district who have building plan approval and have started building maintain their plots and allocations and are covered in the Maitama II District layout. It is not clear though if a fresh allocation bearing Maitama II District has been issued to this set of allottees.

Notable landmarks of the Maitama 2 district are Jubilation Avenue, Mount Pleasant Haven and Hilltop Estate.

The district infrastructure is in top gear as the Federal Government had in the 2018 and 2019 budgets allocated about N1.3b for the engineering design of the district. Villages around the district are living in fear of demolition at any time with the information reaching them that government will commence the infrastructure project of Maitama II District.<ref>{{cite web |date=29 May 2022 |title=Maitama II Infrastructure to Commence Soon |url=https://leadership.ng/2020/08/21/provision-of-infrastructure-in-maitama-2-to-commence-soon/ |website=leadership.ng}}</ref>

===== Wuse District =====
Wuse District is the northwestern part of the city, with the Maitama District to its north and the Central District to its south. The District is numbered Zones 1–6. The Wuse Market is Abuja's principal market. The second most important post office in the city is here. This district houses the Sheraton Hotel and Towers (Zone 4), Grand Ibro International Hotel, the [[Federal Road Safety Corps (Nigeria)|Federal Road Safety Corps]] Headquarters (Zone 3), [[Nigeria Customs Service|Nigerian Customs Services]] Headquarters, Federal Civil Service Commission (Zone 3), [[National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control|National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration]] (NAFDAC) (Zone 7), Wuse General Hospital, and the [[Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation]]. Just as Garki District has Garki II, Wuse has Wuse II. This is distinct from Wuse Zone 2. Like other inner Abuja districts such as Asokoro or Garki, there are very few large housing estates. Instead, office buildings, mansions and apartment blocks are prominent features of the area.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-09-27 |title=Geographical and Environmental Backgrounds of FCT, Abuja - Abuja OIPedia |url=https://abujaoipedia.org/content/geographical-and-environmental-backgrounds-of-fct-abuja/ |access-date=2023-05-17 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Here is what you need to know about Wuse; the commercial hub of Abuja |url=https://estateintel.com/insights/here-is-what-you-need-to-know-about-wuse-the-commercial-hub-of-abuja |access-date=2023-05-17 |website=estateintel.com}}</ref>

==== Phase 2 ====
{{div col|colwidth=10em}}
* [[Apo-Dutse]]
* [[Dakibiyu]]
* [[Duboyi]]
* [[Durumi ]]
* [[Gaduwa]]
* [[Gudu, Abuja|Gudu]]
* [[Jabi, Abuja|Jabi]]
* [[Jahi, Abuja|Jahi]]
* [[Kado, Abuja|Kado]]
* [[Katampe]]
* [[Kaura, Abuja|Kaura]]
* [[Kukwuaba District, Abuja|Kukwuaba]]
* [[Mabushi]]
* [[Utako]]
* [[Wuye District, Abuja|Wuye]]{{Div col end}}

==== Phase 3 ====
{{div col|colwidth=10em}}
* [[Galadimawa]]
* [[Gwarimpa Estate|Gwarimpa]]
* [[Industrial Area 1 & Extension District]]
* [[Kabusa]]
* [[Karmo, Abuja|Karmo]]
* [[Kafe District, Abuja|Kafe]]
* [[Life Camp]]
* [[Nbora]]
* [[Dakwo District, Abuja|Dakwo]]
* [[Lokogoma District, Abuja|Lokogoma]]{{Div col end}}

==== Phase 4 ====
{{div col|colwidth=10em}}
* [[Idu, Abuja|Idu]]
* [[Karsana]]{{Div col end}}
There are five suburban districts: [[Nyanya (Abuja)|Nyanya]] [[Karu Suburban District, Abuja|Karu]], [[Gwagwalada]] [[Kubwa, Abuja|Kubwa]], and [[Jikwoyi]]. Along the Airport Road (Now [[Umaru Musa Yar'Adua]] Express Way) are clusters of [[satellite settlements]], namely [[Lugbe]], [[Chika (settlement), Abuja|Chika]], [[Kuchigworo (settlement), Abuja|Kuchigworo]] and [[Pyakassa (settlement), Abuja|Pyakassa]]. Other satellite settlements are [[Idu (settlement), Abuja|Idu]] (the main [[industrial region|industrial zone]]), [[Mpape (settlement), Abuja|Mpape]], [[Karmo (settlement), Abuja|Karimu]], [[Gwagwa (settlement), Abuja|Gwagwa]], [[Dei-Dei (settlement), Abuja|Dei-Dei]] (housing the International Livestock market and also International Building materials market).<ref>{{cite web|date=23 June 2018|title=Abuja; The Capital City of Nigeria|url=https://hintng.com/abuja-the-capital-city-of-nigeria/|access-date=2021-01-23|website=Hintnaija|language=en-US}}</ref>

== Cityscape ==
[[File:Abuja Stadium 4.jpg|thumbnail|Spectators at a football match held at the [[Abuja National Stadium]]]]

Construction of the [[Millennium Tower (Abuja)|Millennium Tower]] started in 2005 and was halted in 2017 after funds ran out. This structure looms {{Convert|170|m}} above the city and is the tallest artificial structure in Abuja.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abuja Millennium Tower: A Monument Abandoned to Its Fate |url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2017/08/21/abuja-millennium-tower-a-monument-abandoned-to-its-fate/ |website=This Day Live}}</ref> The tower is part of a huge cultural development complex called the Nigeria National Complex including the Nigeria Cultural Centre, a {{Convert|120000|m2|abbr=on|adj=on}} structure dedicated to the art and culture of Nigeria. The Cultural Centre and the Millennium Tower have been designed by the Italian architect [[Manfredi Nicoletti]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abuja tower to be finished in 2025 – 20 years after work began |url=https://buildmytalent.com/2023/09/02/abuja-tower-to-be-finished-in-2025-20-years-after-work-began/ |website=BuildMyTalent}}</ref>

Landmarks include the [[Millennium Tower (Abuja)|Millennium Tower]], the [[Central Bank of Nigeria]] headquarters, the [[Nigerian Presidential Complex]], the Ship House, the [[Abuja National Stadium|National Stadium]], which was the main venue of the [[2003 All-Africa Games|2003 All Africa Games]] and some games, including the final, of the 2009 FIFA Under-17 World Cup, [[Abuja National Mosque|National Mosque]], the [[National Church of Nigeria|National Church]], [[Aso Rock]] and [[Zuma Rock]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite book |last=M.F.C.T |title=Abuja: Achievements of the federal capital territory 1985–1992 |year=1995}}</ref>

=== Parks and open areas ===
[[File:Jabi lake.jpg|thumb|Jabi lake]]
Abuja is home to several parks and green areas, with the largest one being [[Millennium Park (Abuja)|Millennium Park]]. Millennium Park was designed by architect [[Manfredi Nicoletti]] and was officially opened by the United Kingdom's [[Queen Elizabeth II]] (the former [[Queen of Nigeria]]) in December 2003. Another open area park is located in Lifecamp Gwarimpa; near the residence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The park is located on a slightly raised hilltop which contains sports facilities like Basketball and Badminton courts another park is the city park, which is located in Wuse 2 and is home to numerous outdoor and indoor attractions such as a 4D cinema, Astro-turf, lawn tennis court, paintball arena and a variety of restaurants. The National Children's Park and Zoo host a number of animals and recreation spots.<ref>{{cite web |title=23 things to do in Abuja |url=https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293825-d14977048-Reviews-National_Children_s_Park_and_Zoo-Abuja_Federal_Capital_Territory.html |website=tripadvisor |access-date=23 September 2020}}</ref>
[[File:National Children's Park, Abuja 4.jpg|thumb|left|National Children's Park and Zoo]]

==== Bush Bars ====
Abuja has a variety of informal spaces known as "Bush Bars" that usually, though not always, include a covered area with tables and chairs where people can sit and have drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and sometimes there are snacks such as [[suya]], grilled [[catfish]], pounded [[Yam (vegetable)|yam]], [[egusi]] soup and other small items available for purchase. They are located all over Abuja.<ref>{{cite web|author=Jeremy|title=Sunday, August 27, 2006 Abuja bush bars|url=http://www.naijablog.co.uk/2006/08/abuja-bush-bars.html|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202223312/http://www.naijablog.co.uk/2006/08/abuja-bush-bars.html|archive-date=2 December 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nigerian Suya Recipe: For Nigerians in Diaspora|url=http://www.allnigerianrecipes.com/snacks/nigerian-suya-recipe.html|publisher=allnigerianrecipes.com|year=2013}}</ref>

== Geography ==
The elevation is {{convert|360|m}}.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Abuja-national-capital-Nigeria5 | title=Abuja | publisher=Encyclopædia Britannica | access-date=27 January 2021}}</ref>
[[File:NIGERIA.jpg|thumb|Abuja, Nigeria]]

=== Climate ===
Abuja under [[Köppen climate classification]] features a [[tropical wet and dry climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]]: ''Aw''). The FCT experiences three weather conditions annually. This includes a warm, humid [[rainy season]] and a blistering [[dry season]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Climate: Abuja Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria|url=https://www.worlddata.info/africa/nigeria/climate-abuja-federal-capital-territory.php|access-date=2022-01-08|website=Worlddata.info|language=en}}</ref> In between the two, there is a brief interlude of [[harmattan]] occasioned by the northeast trade wind, with the main feature of [[Haze|dust haze]] and cloudless skies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NiMet Warns Of Flash Floods, Extreme Weather In Parts Of Nigeria, Unveils 2025 Report In Local Languages For Farmers {{!}} Sahara Reporters |url=https://saharareporters.com/2025/02/04/nimet-warns-flash-floods-extreme-weather-parts-nigeria-unveils-2025-report-local |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=saharareporters.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=November 2020 |title=Origin and Meaning of Abuja the Capital city of Nigeria|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/345166243_Origin_and_Meaning_of_Abuja_the_Capital_city_of_Nigeria}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=nomadseason.com |url=https://nomadseason.com/climate/nigeria/fct/abuja.html |access-date=11 February 2024}}</ref>

The [[Wet season|rainy season]] begins from April and ends in October,<ref>{{cite web|title=Average monthly rainfall and snow in Abuja, Nigeria (millimeter)|url=https://weather-and-climate.com:80/average-monthly-precipitation-Rainfall,abuja,Nigeria|access-date=2022-01-08|website=World Weather & Climate Information}}</ref> when daytime temperatures reach {{convert|28|°C|°F|1}} to {{convert|30|°C|°F|1}} and nighttime lows hover around {{convert|22|°C|°F|1}} to {{convert|23|°C|°F|1}}.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|title=Abuja Climate, Weather By Month, Average Temperature (Nigeria) – Weather Spark|url=https://weatherspark.com/y/55097/Average-Weather-in-Abuja-Nigeria-Year-Round|access-date=2022-01-08|website=weatherspark.com|language=en}}</ref> In the dry season, daytime temperatures can soar as high as {{convert|40|°C|°F|1}} and overnight temperatures can dip to {{convert|20|°C|°F|1}}. Even the coolest nights can be followed by daytime temperatures well above {{convert|30|°C|°F|1}}.<ref name=":0" /> The medium altitude and undulating terrain of the FCT act as a moderating influence on the weather of the territory. The city's inland location causes the [[diurnal temperature variation]] to be much larger than coastal cities with similar climates such as [[Lagos]].{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}

Rainfall in the FCT reflects the territory's location on the windward side of the [[Jos Plateau]] and the zone of rising air masses with the city receiving frequent rainfall during the rainy season from April to October every year.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.touristlink.com/nigeria/abuja/overview.html |title=Abuja Nigeria Tourist Information |publisher=Touristlink.com |access-date=2013-08-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130324021818/http://www.touristlink.com/nigeria/abuja/overview.html |archive-date=24 March 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The effects of [[climate change]] have been observed in Abuja, according to a study conducted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and Atmospheric Science Group of [[Imo State University]].<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal |last1=Orisakwe |first1=Ikenna C. |last2=Nwofor |first2=Okey K. |last3=Njoku |first3=Clement C. |last4=Ezedigboh |first4=Ugochukwu O. |date=January 2017 |title=On the Analysis of the Changes in the Temperatures over Abuja, Nigeria |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314113105 |journal=Journal of Physical Science and Environmental Studies |volume=3 |issue=1 |page=9}}</ref> Between 1993 and 2013, the average maximum temperature trended downward, but the average minimum and mean temperatures trended upwards.<ref name=":3" /> There was a downward trend for rainfall in Abuja, based on data collected between 1986 and 2016.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Itiowe |first1=T. |last2=Hassan |first2=S. M. |last3=Agidi |first3=V. A. |title=Analysis of Rainfall Trends and Patterns in Abuja, Nigeria |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332248683 |website=ResearchGate}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Itiowe, MSc |first1=O. O. |last2=Hassan |first2=S. M. |last3=Oghenejabor, MSc |first3=O. D. |date=January 2020 |title=An Assessment of the Effects of Climate Change on Rainfall Variability and Drought over Abuja, Nigeria |url=https://ijisrt.com/assets/upload/files/IJISRT20JAN645.pdf |journal=International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology |volume=5 |issue=1 |page=1323}}</ref> The drought occurrence probability for Abuja increased by 15.4% between 1975 and 2014.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Ajileye |first1=O. O. |last2=Aigbiremolen |first2=I. M. |last3=Mohammed |first3=S. O. |last4=Halilu |first4=A. S. |last5=Alaga |first5=A. T. |date=September 2015 |title=Effect of Climatic Variability on Drought Occurrence Probability over Nigeria |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283880337 |journal=British Journal of Applied Science & Technology |volume=12 |issue=1 |page=9}}</ref>
{{Weather box| location = Abuja, Nigeria (1991-2020)| width= auto| single line = Y||collapsed   = yes| metric first = Y| Jan high C =35.2| Feb high C =36.9| Mar high C =37.3| Apr high C =35.6| May high C =32.9| Jun high C =30.8| Jul high C =29.5| Aug high C =28.7| Sep high C =29.9| Oct high C =31.3| Nov high C = 34.2| Dec high C = 35.0| year high C =33.1| Jan low C =18.5| Feb low C =21.6| Mar low C =24.1| Apr low C =24.4| May low C =23.3| Jun low C =22.3| Jul low C =22.0| Aug low C =21.8| Sep low C =21.6| Oct low C =21.6| Nov low C =19.7| Dec low C =17.7| year low C =21.5| Jan mean C =26.9| Feb mean C =29.3| Mar mean C =30.7| Apr mean C =30.0| May mean C =28.1| Jun mean C =26.6| Jul mean C =25.7| Aug mean C =25.2| Sep mean C =25.7| Oct mean C =26.5| Nov mean C =26.9| Dec mean C =26.3| year mean C =27.3|precipitation colour = green| Jan precipitation mm =0.8| Feb precipitation mm =5.9| Mar precipitation mm =22.4| Apr precipitation mm =72.8| May precipitation mm =156.7| Jun precipitation mm =194.4| Jul precipitation mm =249.8| Aug precipitation mm =308.3| Sep precipitation mm =229.4| Oct precipitation mm =169.5| Nov precipitation mm =9.7| Dec precipitation mm =1.3| year precipitation mm =1421.1| unit precipitation days = 1 mm| Jan precipitation days =0.1| Feb precipitation days =0.4| Mar precipitation days =1.9| Apr precipitation days =6.0| May precipitation days =11.3| Jun precipitation days =12.2| Jul precipitation days =15.0| Aug precipitation days =17.3| Sep precipitation days =16.0| Oct precipitation days =13.0| Nov precipitation days =0.9| Dec precipitation days =0.0| year precipitation days =94.0| Jan record high C =40.0| Feb record high C =42.0| Mar record high C =42.0| Apr record high C =41.0| May record high C =39.7| Jun record high C =37.8| Jul record high C =34.7| Aug record high C =33.5| Sep record high C =34.0| Oct record high C =40.0| Nov record high C = 38.1| Dec record high C = 39.0| year record high C =42.0| Jan record low C =11.0| Feb record low C =13.7| Mar record low C =15.0| Apr record low C =14.0| May record low C =15.0| Jun record low C =17.2| Jul record low C =16.0| Aug record low C =15.0| Sep record low C =18.0| Oct record low C =16.5| Nov record low C = 13.0| Dec record low C = 8.9| year record low C =8.9| Jan humidity = 44.4| Feb humidity = 44.9| Mar humidity = 56.1| Apr humidity = 71.5| May humidity = 80.9| Jun humidity = 84.7| Jul humidity = 86.8| Aug humidity = 88.0| Sep humidity = 86.8| Oct humidity = 83.4| Nov humidity = 65.8| Dec humidity = 50.9| year humidity = 70.3,
| Jan sun = 277.9
| Feb sun = 260.6
| Mar sun = 283.7
| Apr sun = 257.3
| May sun = 233.2
| Jun sun = 184.2
| Jul sun = 175.7
| Aug sun = 154.0
| Sep sun = 188.9
| Oct sun = 241.1
| Nov sun = 275.0
| Dec sun = 278.0
| year sun = 
|source 1 = NOAA<ref>{{cite web
| url = https://www.nodc.noaa.gov/archive/arc0216/0253808/1.1/data/0-data/Region-1-WMO-Normals-9120/Nigeria/CSV/Abuja_65125.csv| title = Abuja Climate Normals 1991–2020| publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]| access-date = 
}}</ref>
| source 2 = Weather.Directory<ref name="Weather.Directory">
{{cite web|url=https://weather.directory/ng/abuja
|title= Abuja Weather & Climate Guide
|access-date= 9 Sep 2025
|website= Weather.Directory}}</ref>
}}

=== Environmental impact reduction ===

=== Vegetation ===
{{unreferenced section|date=January 2018}}
The FCT falls within the [[Guinean forest-savanna mosaic]] zone of the West African sub-region.<ref>{{cite web|title=Federal Capital Territory {{!}} Location & Geography |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Abuja-federal-capital-territory-Nigeria|access-date=2022-01-08|website=Britannica|language=en}}</ref> Patches of [[rain forest]], however, occur in the Gwagwa plains, especially in the rugged terrain to the southeastern parts of the territory, where a landscape of gullies and rough terrain is found. These areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) form one of the few surviving occurrences of the mature forest vegetation in Nigeria.

=== Gallery ===

<gallery class="center" widths="140">
File:Abuja city gate.jpg|Abuja city gate
File:Zuma Rock.jpg|Zuma rock
File:Abuja Airport Terminal.jpg|Terminal at the [[Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport|Abuja International Airport]]
File:Nigeria's National Assembly Building with the Mace.jpg|Nigeria's [[National Assembly (Nigeria)|National Assembly]] Building with the Mace
File:MinForeignAffairs.jpg|The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
File:Gen Shehu Musa Yar'Adua in Abuja 2.jpg|Shehu Musa Yar'adua Center
File:Ceiling of Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre in Abuja.jpg|Glass Dome of Shehu Musa Yar'adua Centre in Abuja
File:Side view of Central Bank of Nigeria, Abuja.jpg|Side view of [[Central Bank of Nigeria]], Abuja
File:Usman Dam, Bwari Abuja.jpg|Usman Dam, Bwari Abuja
File:Usuma Dam Abuja.png|Usuma Dam Abuja
File:Nigeria Senate Building (Red Chamber).jpg|Nigeria Senate Building (Red Chamber)
File:Millennium Park Abuja1.jpg|Millennium Park
File:Abuja park Millennium.jpg|Abuja Millennium Park
File:Abuja mountains.jpg|alt=|Green hills
File:View of Abuja from Katampe hill 01.jpg|alt=|View of Abuja from Katampe hill
File:Crush Rock Abuja Nigeria.jpg|Crush Rock Abuja Nigeria
</gallery>

== Demographics ==
At the 2006 census, the city of Abuja had a population of 776,298,<ref name="plac">{{cite web|url=http://placng.org/Legal%20Notice%20on%20Publication%20of%202006%20Census%20Final%20Results.pdf |title=Legal Notice on Publication of 2006 Census Final Results |publisher=Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre |access-date=10 June 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130319130952/http://placng.org/Legal%20Notice%20on%20Publication%20of%202006%20Census%20Final%20Results.pdf |archive-date=19 March 2013 }}</ref> making it than the [[List of Nigerian cities by population|eighth most populous city in Nigeria]]. United Nations figures showed that Abuja grew by 139.7% between 2000 and 2010, making it the fastest-growing city in the world.<ref name="euromonitor2010">{{cite web | url = http://blog.euromonitor.com/2010/03/special-report-worlds-fastest-growing-cities-are-in-asia-and-africa.html | title = World's Fastest Growing Cities are in Asia and Africa | date = 2 March 2010 | publisher = Euromonitor | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151117022953/http://blog.euromonitor.com/2010/03/special-report-worlds-fastest-growing-cities-are-in-asia-and-africa.html | archive-date = 2015-11-17 | access-date = 26 October 2015
}}</ref> {{As of|2015}}, the city is experiencing an annual growth of at least 35%, retaining its position as the fastest-growing city on the African continent and one of the fastest-growing in the world.<ref name="abujafacts5">{{cite web|url=http://www.abujafacts.ng/top-5-cities-to-do-business-in-nigeria-abuja-is-2nd/ |title=Top 5 Cities To Do Business in Nigeria. ABUJA Is 2nd |publisher=Abuja Facts |date=22 April 2015 |access-date=26 October 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160204113031/http://www.abujafacts.ng/top-5-cities-to-do-business-in-nigeria-abuja-is-2nd/ |archive-date=4 February 2016 }}</ref>

=== Conurbation ===
Abuja has witnessed a huge influx of people into the city; the growth has led to the emergence of satellite towns, such as [[Karu Urban Area]], [[Suleja]], Gwagwalada, Lugbe, [[Kuje]] and smaller settlements towards which the planned city is sprawling. The urban agglomeration centred upon Abuja had a population estimated at 3,770,000 in 2022.<ref name="Demographia">{{cite book|author1=Demographia|title=Demographia World Urban Areas|date=July 2022|edition=18th|url=http://www.demographia.com/db-worldua.pdf|access-date=3 November 2022}}</ref> The city has a large and growing immigrant community consisting mainly of nationals from the ECOWAS sub-region. The city has been undergoing a rapid pace of physical development over the last fifteen years.

== Economy and infrastructure ==

=== Real estate ===
Real estate is a major driver of the Abuja economy. This correlates with the considerable growth and investment the city has seen as it has developed. The sources of this investment have been both foreign and local. The real estate sector continues to have a positive impact on the city, as it is a major avenue for employment.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.villaafrika.com/abuja-real-estate-development/|title=Abuja Real Estate Development & Projects To Watch in 2019|date=27 January 2019|website=Villa Afrika Realty|language=en-US|access-date=2019-02-03}}</ref>

=== Annual trade fair ===
The [[Abuja International Trade Fair]] (AITF) has been held annually since 2005, under the auspices of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI).<ref>{{cite news |last1=Akinyemi |first1=Bioluwatife |title=ACCI hosts 500 exhibitors, showcases 10,000 products at 17th Abuja International Trade Fair |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/acci-hosts-500-exhibitors-showcases-10000-products-at-17th-abuja-international-trade-fair/ |access-date=9 April 2023 |work=Nigerial Tribune |date=2 October 2022}}</ref> ACCI has also sought to link businesses to enhance trade with [[East Africa]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Itsibor |first1=Mark |title=East African Business Council Partners ACCI On Implementation Of AfCFTA |url=https://leadership.ng/east-african-business-council-partners-acci-on-implementation-of-afcfta/ |access-date=9 April 2023 |work=Leadership |date=16 December 2022}}</ref>

=== Postal system ===
Abuja is served by the [[Nigerian Postal Service]] (NIPOST) which maintains postal codes, street names and zones.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-21 |title=FCT Abuja Postal Code (Zip Code List) 2023 » * State |url=https://nairapostalcode.com.ng/state/abuja-postal-code-all-locations-lgas-zip-codes/ |access-date=2023-11-19 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nipost.gov.ng |title=Welcome To Nigerian Postal Service ! |publisher=Nipost.gov.ng |access-date=2013-08-30}}</ref>

=== Transportation ===

==== Airport ====

[[Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport]] is the main airport serving Abuja and the surrounding capital region.<ref name="i082">{{cite web | title=NAIA, Abuja. | website=FAAN | date=2023-05-03 | url=https://faan.gov.ng/naia-abuja/ | access-date=2024-09-14}}</ref> It was named after Nigeria's first president, [[Nnamdi Azikiwe]]. The airport has international and domestic terminals.

{{wide image|Abuja Highway Panoramic.jpg|800px|Abuja Highway Panoramic}}

==== Highways ====
Abuja is also linked to [[Nasarawa State|Nasarawa]], [[Plateau State|Plateau]], [[Benue State|Benue]] and Northeast Nigeria by the A234 Federal Highway, which starts from the city as the [[Goodluck Jonathan]] expressway, some portions of which are still under construction. A direct highway link to [[Minna]] in [[Niger State]] is still under construction. The A2 expressway links Abuja with [[Kaduna]] in the north and [[Lokoja]] in the south. There are also other highway links with the outlying region, such as that linking the suburb of Dutse Alhaji with the Lower Usuma and [[Gurara, Nigeria|Gurara]] Dams, which supply water to the city.<ref>{{cite web|title=9ja News|url=https://9janews.net/|access-date=2021-01-23}}</ref>

[[File:Cars in Abuja, Nigeria 14.jpg|thumb|145px|Cars on Sani Abacha way, Abuja]]
[[File:Road in Abuja, Nigeria 13.jpg|thumb|145px|Abuja-Kubwa expressway part of the [[A234 highway (Nigeria)|A234]] highway in Nigeria]]

==== Rail ====

Abuja is on the route of the planned [[Lagos–Kano Standard Gauge Railway]], which has been completed between Abuja and [[Kaduna (city)|Kaduna]]. Trains for [[Kaduna (city)|Kaduna]] depart from the Idu Railway Station in Abuja. There is a car park at the train station for passengers travelling to the city centre.<ref name="agabi2016">{{cite news|last1=Agabi|first1=Chris|title=NRC begins Abuja-Kaduna daily free train service|url=http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/nrc-begins-abuja-kaduna-daily-free-train-service/152361.html|work=Daily Trust|date=23 June 2016|access-date=26 July 2016|archive-date=31 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831035720/https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/nrc-begins-abuja-kaduna-daily-free-train-service/152361.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[Abuja light rail]] opened in 2018 and became the first rapid transit in the country and in Western Africa. Abuja's light rail system was shut down in 2020 due to the COVID-19 epidemic. Traffic resumed on 29 May 2024.<ref>{{cite web |last=International |first=Metro Report |date=2024-06-06 |title=Abuja metro services relaunched |url=https://www.railwaygazette.com/metros/abuja-metro-services-relaunched/66674.article |access-date=2024-08-16 |website=Railway Gazette International }}</ref>

[[File:Idu Station Platform.jpg|thumb|Train at Idu Station Platform]]

[[File:Abuja Rail Mass Transit.svg|thumb|Abuja Rail Mass Transit map]]

== Education ==
Abuja is also known as one of the states in Nigeria that provides quality post-secondary education. It is speedily becoming an attraction for students due to the growing presence of both public and private universities.<ref>{{cite web|last=says|first=George Kato|date=13 June 2021|title=2021 Update List Of Private Universities in Abuja Accredited By NUC|url=https://alluniversity.com.ng/private-universities-in-abuja/|access-date=2021-07-06|website=Latest JAMB News {{!}} All Nigerian Universities News|language=en-US|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185325/https://alluniversity.com.ng/private-universities-in-abuja/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Universities ===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a university to this list if it already has its own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
* [[African Institute of Science and Technology|African University of Science and Technology]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Welcome to AUST |url=https://aust.edu.ng/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=aust.edu.ng}}</ref>
* [[Baze University]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Baze University|url=https://bazeuniversity.edu.ng/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-07-12|website=bazeuniversity.edu.ng|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111123162331/http://www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng:80/ |archive-date=23 November 2011 }}</ref>
* [[National Open University of Nigeria]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Home {{!}} National Open University of Nigeria|url=https://nou.edu.ng/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=nou.edu.ng}}</ref>
* [[Nile University of Nigeria]]<ref>{{cite web|date=18 June 2021|title=Buhari's Minister, Keyamo At University Lecture Says Nigerians Will Beg For Return Of Disbanded SARS, Students Mock Him|url=http://saharareporters.com/2021/06/18/buhari%E2%80%99s-minister-keyamo-university-lecture-says-nigerians-will-beg-return-disbanded-sars|access-date=2021-06-29|website=Sahara Reporters}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=10 May 2020|title=Covid 19: Lockdown Has not Disrupted Our Academic Activities, Says Nike Varsity|url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2020/05/10/covid-19-lockdown-has-not-disrupted-our-academic-activities-says-nike-varsity/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=thisdaylive.com|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=24 May 2018|title=NUC releases names of universities approved for post-graduate programmes (full list)|url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/269568-nuc-releases-names-of-universities-approved-for-post-graduate-programmes-full-list.html|access-date=2021-06-29|language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[University of Abuja]]<ref>{{cite web|date=15 June 2021|title=UniAbuja Calls for Good Governance, Holds Maiden Leadership Retreat|url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/06/16/uniabuja-calls-for-good-governance-holds-maiden-leadership-retreat/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=thisdaylive.com|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Veritas University]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Veritas University Abuja|url=https://www.veritas.edu.ng/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=www.veritas.edu.ng}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=8 May 2021|title=Police asked us to have minimal activities on campus — Veritas varsity VC|url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/05/police-asked-us-to-have-minimal-activities-on-campus-veritas-varsity-vc/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=Vanguard News|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Philomath University]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://philomath.edu.ng/ |title=Philomath University |website=Philomath.edu.ng |date=27 September 2022 |access-date=2022-10-08}}</ref>


=== International schools ===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a school to this list if it already has its own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
* [[American International School of Abuja]]<ref>{{cite web|date=19 March 2021|title=2021 Top Secondary Schools in Nigeria with Amazing Tech Programs|url=https://www.techcityng.com/2021-top-secondary-schools-in-nigeria-with-amazing-tech-programs/|access-date=2021-06-29|website=TechCity|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Whiteplains British School]], Jabi<ref>{{cite web|date=10 November 2015|title=Top 10 Most Expensive Secondary Schools In Nigeria|url=https://www.pulse.ng/communities/student/expensive-education-top-10-most-expensive-secondary-schools-in-nigeria/czvf2vq|access-date=2021-06-29|website=Pulse Nigeria|language=en}}</ref>
* [[École Française Marcel Pagnol]]

== Natural resources ==
Abuja is one of the cities that are endowed with [[natural resource]]s in Nigeria, and these resources serve as [[raw material]]s for [[Pharmaceutical industry|pharmaceutical]], [[food processing]], [[Medicine|medicinal]] and other processing companies, and they are also useful for commercial purposes, and as sources of [[food]]. Among these materials include:

=== Mineral Raw Materials ===

* [[Clay]]
* [[Gold]]
* [[Tin]]
* [[Feldspar]]
* [[Tantalite]]
* [[Cassiterite]]
* [[Marble]]
* [[Talc]]
* [[Dolomite_(rock)|Dolomite]]

Source:<ref>{{Cite web |title=Federal Capital Territory {{!}} Location & Geography  |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Abuja-federal-capital-territory-Nigeria |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=Britannica |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ikenwa |first=Chizoba |date=2020-01-13 |title=Natural Resources Found in Abuja: Full List |url=https://nigerianinfopedia.com.ng/natural-resources-found-in-abuja-full-list/ |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=Nigerian Infopedia |language=en-us |archive-date=31 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221231150517/https://nigerianinfopedia.com.ng/natural-resources-found-in-abuja-full-list/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Honorary citizens ==
People awarded the [[Honorary citizenship]] of Abuja are:

{| class="wikitable"  style="width:75%; font-size:85%; border:gray solid 1px; text-align:middle;"
! style="text-align: left;background:#B0C4DE"|Date
!  style="width:240px; text-align:left; background:#b0c4de;"|Name
! style="text-align: left;background:#B0C4DE"|Notes
|-
|10
February
2016
|[[Joachim Gauck]] (24 January 1940–)
|[[President of Germany]] (2012–2017)<ref name=":4">{{cite web |title=Define Abuja |url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/abuja's |access-date=14 April 2015 |website=Dictionary.com |publisher=Random House, Inc.}}</ref>
|-
||4 July 2018||[[Emmanuel Macron]] (21 December 1977–)|| [[President of France]] (2017–).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.graphic.com.gh/international/international-news/nigeria-french-president-made-honorary-citizen-of-abuja.html|title=Nigeria: French President made honorary citizen of Abuja|website=Graphic Online}}</ref>
|-
||30 August 2018||[[Theresa May|Rt. Hon. Theresa May]] (1 October 1956–)|| [[Prime Minister of the United Kingdom]] (2016–2019).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://verbatimnigeria.org/verbatim2/2018/08/30/theresa-may-conferred-with-abuja-citizenship/|title=Theresa May Conferred With Abuja Citizenship|website=verbatimnigeria.org}}</ref>
|}

== See also ==
*[[Centenary City]]
*[[Abuja Investments Company]]

== References ==
{{reflist|30em}}

== External links ==
{{sisterlinks|d=Q3787|c=Category:Abuja|n=no|b=no|v=no|voy=Abuja|m=no|mw=no|s=no|wikt=no|species=no}}
* [https://www.fcta.gov.ng/ Official website]

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[[Category:Abuja| ]]
[[Category:1970s establishments in Nigeria]]
[[Category:Capitals in Africa]]
[[Category:Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)]]
[[Category:Local Government Areas in the Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)]]
[[Category:Planned communities established in the 1970s]]
[[Category:Planned capitals]]
[[Category:Planned communities in Nigeria]]
[[Category:Populated places established in the 1970s]]
[[Category:Populated places in the Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)]]
[[Category:Cities in Nigeria]]