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Evolution of the POS System in Nigeria

on March 23, 2023 Locations add comment

The past decade has seen massive socio economic growth in Nigeria. A lot of the sector’s growth emanates from the country’s finance and banking sector. In the turn of the new millennia, the Central Bank of Nigeria began to agitate for Nigerians to embrace a cashless society. That agitation for a cashless society has led to a handful of innovations each promising to lead to the nationwide adoption of a cashless society. One of these innovations is the Point of Service (POS) system. In Nigeria currently, a POS Agent can be found in almost every community in the country and have become an important part of the financial system in the country. Asides the POS systems found in a good number of shops, we all know a POS station and have utilized an Opay or MoniePoint agent at one time or another as recently as this morning for some people.

But some people may wonder, what is the history of POS points and agents in Nigeria? While some may argue that the POS system originated from the advent of the cash register or even the banking system digitalization, the POS system in Nigeria begun sometime after all these innovations. In 2013, the Central Bank of Nigeria introduced the Point of Sale (PoS) system and agent banking to achieve financial inclusion and develop a cashless society. The POS system enables customers pay for goods and services through their smartphones, tablets or other devices that can connect to the internet. The POS system has a wide array of functions some of which we are familiar with and may have used ourselves, such as cash withdrawal, cash deposits, payment of utility bills and bank account creation to name a few.

The obvious upside of the system is that it simplifies sales processes. The POS system has gone a long way to aid the effective management of inventory, reducing costs and improving customer services. In addition, the system enables the user to gather data on sales, inventory while facilitating effective sales calculation for the customers. It can be argued that the POS has not done to help the cashless society agenda because statistically, people have used the system as a way of gaining more access to their monies as cash withdrawals take a greater percentage of the transactions conducted by the POS machines.

The POS industry in Nigeria is a great business as it has proven to be very profitable due to rural populations being under banked and financially underserved with estimated profits to be around between 5,000 to 11, 000 Naira per day in an great location. However, the investors who would like to go into this business can be persuaded by low initial investment, limitless customers, low operational costs, high profit margins and the opportunity for growth. The high success rate of this payment system is also attributed to the fact that a lot of Nigerians have come to rely on the POS to get access to money faster than going to the bank or finding a working nearby ATM.

As great as it sounds, the POS system is not without the usual problems that plague the Nigerian financial system and its businesses. While the statistics on the growth of the POS system in Nigeria especially in the last four years published by NIBSS are really impressive, customers have expressed a few concerns. On one hand, some complain that bankers have neglected repairing and restocking the ATMs in favour of the POS some of which are owned by the bankers. Bankers have refuted these claims, countering that most customers prefer to use the ATMs instead because they would not have to pay the charges for engaging the POS services and will also prefer to deal directly with their own banks as opposed to a third party institution. Further, the epileptic banking network systems have also exacerbated customer complaints as some customers claimed to have lost their money due to botched transactions and others complain that some POS agents have tried to defraud them on several occasions.

While some customers have called for regulations from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address the issues of the POS system, there is no doubt that the approach of the average Nigerian to the POS system is favourable. The POS system in Nigeria is viewed as a necessity that could use a little fine tuning to some people and a profitable SME to others. The need for caution is apparent, although that cautionary tale is prevalent for most Nigerian businesses especially in the financial sector. What has been your experience or opinion of the POS system in Nigeria so far?

Endeavour to keep the conversation going across our social media platforms and in the comments section. We also look forward to receiving your suggestions on other topics to discuss with you our readers on this platform.

The Six Geo-Political Zones In Nigeria

on March 22, 2023 Communities Culture History and Heritage Locations add comment

As the country winds up for one of the biggest elections in the nation’s history, competition is stiffer than ever. We at Experiencing Naija shift our sights to or national grouping and provide a quick and easy insight to the purport and purpose on the six geopolitical zones.

Nigeria as a country is a Federal Republic comprising of thirty six states and its Federal Capital territory. In addition, Nigeria is made up of approximately 400 ethnic groups and 450 languages necessitating the government to merge similar groups for effective allocation of resources.

A geopolitical zone, commonly called Zones is an administrative division of Nigerian states in which power could be rotated amongst regions for equity purposes and gives every region a sense of belonging. The Nigerian geopolitical structure affects several of the country’s major sectors such as the educational, political and economic resources and even the political parties.

The idea of zoning in the country was birthed by Nigeria’s former Vice President Sir Alex Ekwueme during the 1995 Constitutional Conference with the motive of breaking the dominance of one region in Nigeria’s political landscape. The idea came to fruition when that same year, the then President of the country General Sani Abacha made an announcement dividing the country into six geopolitical zones

Although this grouping is not mentioned in the country’s current constitution, it is crucial to the delineation of power in the country. There has been robust agitation by Nigeria’s key political figures to include the geopolitical zones into the Nigerian constitution but there is no denying that the effect of this practice is felt throughout the Federation.

Nigeria is grouped into six geopolitical zones, which are

North Central (NC)
North East (NE)
North West (NW)
South South (SS)
South East (SE) and
South West (SW)

North Central (NC) has a total number of seven states. North Central states consists of Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger and Plateau States as well as Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Popularly referred to as the Middle Belt this region is characterised by its lack of a clear majority ethnic group. In terms of population, it is predicted that there are over 45 million people living in the middle belt region. The Middle Belt consists of many ethnic groups speaking over 230 languages. The Middle Belt has been the melting pot where small and large ethno-religious groups in Nigeria have long coexisted, but where they have also increasingly collided over land, resources, identity and political power. Major cities in the North Central Nigeria include Jos, Lokoja, Makurdi, Lafia, Otukpo etc.

North East (NE) consists of six states which are Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe States. Like other parts of the country this region practices agriculture especially livestock rearing and animal husbandry. Geographically, the North East is the largest geopolitical zone in the nation, covering nearly one-third of Nigeria’s total area. In terms of the environment, the zone is primarily divided between the semi-desert Sahelian savanna and the tropical West Sudanian savannah ecoregions. The region has a population of about 26 million people, around 12% of the total population of the country. Maiduguri and Bauchi are the most populous cities in the North East. It houses major cities such as Gombe, Yola, Jimeta, Potiskum and Jalingo.

North West (NW) consists of seven states namely Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States. According to the National Population Commission’s 2006 census, the North West is Nigeria’s most populated zone. Geographically, the zone is almost entirely within the tropical West Sudanian savannah ecoregion. Culturally, the majority of the zone falls within Hausaland–the indigenous cultural homeland of the Hausa people, a group which makes up the largest ethnic percentage of the north-western population; however, there are sizable minorities of Fulani people and other groups, mainly on the zone’s peripheries. Economically, the North West’s urban areas–like the city of Kano–are large boosts to the Nigerian economy while most rural areas lag behind due to insecurity, low education rates, and government neglect. The region has a population of about 49 million people, around 23% of the total population of the country. Popular cities in the North West include Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, Zaria, Gusau etc.

South South (SS) also known as the Niger Delta region consists of six states which are, Akwa Ibom Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers States. It is the nation’s acclaimed oil producing zone with major cities such as Warri, Port Harcourt, Yenegoa, Asaba, Calabar, Uyo etc. The South South Region was created from both the Western and Eastern regions of Nigeria on 27 May 1967, by the regime of General Yakubu Gowon. Edo and Delta states formerly Bendel state from the Western region, while Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross river states from the Eastern region. The zone stretches along the Atlantic seaboard from the Bight of Benin coast in the west to the Bight of Bonny coast in the east. Although the South South represents only ~5% of Nigerian territory, it contributes greatly to the Nigerian economy due to extensive oil and natural gas reserves. The region has a population of about 26 million people, around 12% of the total population of the country. Popular Nigerian cities in that region include Port Harcourt, Benin City, Warri, Calabar, Asaba, Uyo etc

South East (SE) consists of five states which are Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States. This zone is an Igbo language dominated zone with major cities such as Awka, Owerri, Enugu, Aba, Abakaliki etc. Although the South East is the smallest geopolitical zone, it contributes greatly to the Nigerian economy due to oil and natural gas reserves along with a growing industrialized economy. The South East came about with Alex Ekwueme’s recommendations, although is formerly known as Eastern Nigeria or simply East, following the division of the country into three parts in 1950s. In 1967 it was later split into three under the Gowon Administration (1967-1975). It was in 1976 that more states, including Imo and Anambra began to emerge.

South West (SW) consists of six states namely Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo States. This zone is a predominantly Yoruba speaking region with major cities like Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Oshogbo etc. The zone stretches along the Atlantic seaboard from the international border with Benin Republic in the west to the South South in the east with the North Central to the north. Economically, the South West’s urban areas–mainly the cities of Lagos and Ibadan–contributes greatly to the Nigerian economy while rural areas lag behind. The region has a population of about 47 million people, around 22% of the total population of the country. Lagos is the most populous city in the South West as well as the most popular city in Nigeria and the second most populous city in Africa.

The issue of zoning has been widely discussed in the wake of the election preparation that has swept the country for the purpose of power rotation. After the Nigerian National election of 2023, pertinent issues in the country such as resource allocation could encourage further discourse involving the country’s geopolitical zones.

What geopolitical zone do you come from? Can you tell us something unique to your political zone? Please respond in the comments and be sure to keep the conversation going on all our social media platforms.

Fun things to do in Abuja | Kayaking at the National Stadium

on October 6, 2020 Locations add comment

Kayaking is an amazing way to enjoy nature, get some exercise, socialize and get so much needed piece of quite. Kayaking is a water sport which involves paddling with a double bladed oar and small boat which is referred to as kayak. The boats are usually of several shapes, sizes and types depending on their usage. Most boats used can only accommodate one person at a time except some that can accommodate two or three people.

Kayaking is a very interesting sport and a way of relaxation done using several bodies of water like rivers, lakes, oceans, etc. Among several locations in Nigeria where you can carry out this interesting and beginner friendly sport is Kayak Abuja, located at Kukwaba Lake, Chartered Farms, Package B, National Stadium Sports Grounds, Abuja. Or if you find it difficult to locate the place, you can use thus Google map as a guide.

So, why should you try kayaking?

Apart from the interesting part of socializing and enjoying the nature. It is basically a great sport that helps the body in a number of ways which include:

Kayaking helps flatten one’s tummy. If done regularly, it is a kind of sport that engages a lot of core strength and movement. Paddling on both sides means twisting and this help muscles which most times are overlooked.
Burning of calories. According to some stats gathered through several sources (including selfhelp), it has been proven that kayaking helps in burning calories and can burn 400 to 500 calories within an hour of kayaking.
It is flexible. Ranging from the bodies of water used down to several activities that can be done, kayaking allows for sport, relaxation, fishing, leisure paddling, marathon racing or even water polo. And these can be carried out on several bodies of water like rivers, lakes, oceans and pools.
It offers adventure. The essence of an adventure is to have a sense of self exploration and this is just what kayaking does well. It helps discover yourself the more.
Stress relieve is another important aspect that cannot be neglected. As humans we are mostly consumed by our daily activities and kayaking is one of those ways in which we can stay in tune with what our planet earth has to offer and enjoy the beautiful moments of socializing with other people or enjoying the peace of mind that accompanies the activity.

Kayaking at Kayak Abuja can be a very fun experience for you and your friends. On weekdays, the entry fee into Kayak Abuja is N1000 while during the weekends, it’s N2000.

Feel free to contact us, as we take you through several experiences in Nigeria. Do follow us on our pages: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube. We promise to give you the best and accurate information about Nigeria and Nigerians.

The New Beauty Spot for Tourism in Abuja: Mpape Crushed Rock

on September 29, 2020 Locations add comment

Nigeria has an abundance of tourist sites with stunning natural beauty. These sites are scattered among different states in the country with Federal Capital Territory being the hub for some of these outstanding tourist sites which include but not limited to Zuma Rock, Millennium Park, Abuja National Mosque, Jabi Lake, National Children Park and Zoo, Almat Farms, Nike Art Gallery, Usman Dam and lots more.

Crushed Rock, Mpape, Abuja is a relatively new tourist site gaining much traction and attention as a result of a set of pictures shared on Twitter at the beginning of August this year. These pictures has attracted a lot of engagement within a short period of time, mobilizing both young and old to visit the rocky cliffs. The site which is an abandoned granite-quarry occupies about 131,000m²of massive, highly fractured igneous rock with a lake formed as a result of neglect. Mpape Crushed rock is a place to be for hikers, although the local emergency agency has warned amateur hikers against hiking there.

Based on facts collected, it is one of the nine quarries in Mpape, which implies that there are eight other quarries yet to be explored. The blue sky, green moss plants coverage, about 684 meters height and the 14 meters depth of the lake makes it an outstanding landscape to behold with ability to see several places in Abuja while standing tall on the cliffs. It was believed that the area around Mpape, which means “rock” in the local Gwari language, supplied most of the stones used in building Abuja from a small village to the country’s capital city in the 1980’s.

How To Get To Mpape Crushed Rock

Wanting to behold the beautiful scenery of Mpape Crushed Rock, the recent tourist attraction site in Abuja? That’s not a problem. You can easily locate the site using this Google map link.

Things To Do At Mpape Crushed Rock, Abuja

Since this is currently the most trending tourism spot in Abuja recently discovered by some of Abuja explorers. Presently, there’s no form of recreational activity available, so, while coming, make sure you come along with your food, games, itinerary and an open mind to explore this beautiful tourist site. You can have a picnic or go on a hike as you enjoy the nature’s gift.

Exploring Zaki Biam: The Largest Yam Market in Africa

on September 15, 2020 Locations add comment

Nigeria is by far the world’s largest producer of yams, accounting for over 70 –76 percent of the world production. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization report, in 1985, Nigeria produced 18.3 million tonnes of yam from 1.5 million hectares, representing 73.8 percent of total yam production in Africa. According to the 2008 figures, yam production in Nigeria has nearly doubled since 1985, with Nigeria producing 35.017 million metric tonnes with value equivalent of US$5.654 billion. In perspective, the world’s second and third largest producers of yams, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, only produced 6.9 and 4.8 million tonnes of yams in 2008 respectively. According to the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Nigeria accounted for about 70 percent of the world production amounting to 17 million tonnes from land area 2,837,000 hectares under yam cultivation.

According to the Food and Agricultural Organization from the Global Yams Market Report 2020-2025, worldwide yam production accounted for 72,580 tonnes, and countries like Nigeria and Ghana of the African region holds a significant share in the production as the yam cultivation started 11,000 years ago and is one of the primary commodity in the region. Since Nigeria is accountable for over 65% of yams produced globally making it the world’s largest contributor.

So, where is the hub responsible for these figures?

The experiencing naija team brings to you the largest yam market in West Africa called the Zaki-biam yam market in Ukum local government area of Benue state, Nigeria. From our previous post we discussed the investment opportunities in Benue State in which farming is one of the vital sector to invest in. The presence of the largest yam market in the state has also brought the state to limelight where many people from different regions of the world come to patronize the market. Among the multi-dimensional use of yam from cultural festivals, rituals to marriage rights, yam tubers are significantly used in other different ways.

Yam is a special tuber plant which has high carbohydrate content (low in fat and protein) and provides a good source of energy. Unpeeled yam has vitamin C. Yam, sweet in flavour, is consumed as boiled yam (as cooked vegetable) or fried in oil and then consumed. It is often pounded into a thick paste (Called “Pounded yam”) after boiling and is consumed with soup. It is also processed into flour for use in the preparation of the paste. Its medicinal use as a heart stimulant is attributed to its chemical composition. Its use as an industrial starch has also been established as the quality of some of the species is able to provide as much starch as in cereals.

The Zaki Biam market, believed to be the largest yam market in Nigeria and perhaps Africa, accounts for 70 per cent of yam cultivated in Nigeria. The market holds every day except Sundays, but Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the busiest. Even buyers from other African countries patronize the market. The storage facility located at Zaki Biam is reported to have the capacity to store up 200,000 tubers of yam. Whether for subsistence or commercial purposes, every household in Benue State is expected to own a yam farm.

The public relations officer, (Mr. Felix Loorkyaa) of the Yam shed owners and Yam sellers of the Zaki Biam market shared with Experiencing Naija team that about 200 Lorries of yam leave the market for the east and north daily. Also, a discussion with the director of special duties and a shed owner at Zaki Biam yam market reveals the in and out of the yam business where he stated that at least in a day he sells about two to three thousand tubers of yam daily. He also mentioned that the prices vary based on the sizes of the yam with the medium size yam being around 70 naira per one tuber. He intimated us with several names of the yam based on the sizes and also the nature.

One of the major challenges faced with yam farmers is the manual labour intensive process involved in yam cultivation. The use of traditional storage facilities like thatched hut to store yams is common among the farmers but this method fail to preserve yam from one harvesting season to another leading to a loss resulting from pest and decay. Our discussion with a trader from Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria reveals that the price of a lorry of yam goes for about four million naira and that the business is a very profitable one. No doubt, Benue State is a hub of investment which Nigerians need to harness as it satisfies the slogan “the food basket of the nation.”

Amazing Truths About Gombe: The Jewel of the Savannah

on May 26, 2020 Locations add comment

Gombe, Jewel of the Savannah

Gombe State, the Jewel of the Savannah, was carved out of the old Bauchi State on 1^st October 1996. This was created by the former Head of State and Commander in Chief of Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Late General Sani Abacha (GCFR).

Gombe is located at the North-Eastern part of Nigeria; it shares boundaries with Yobe State to the north, Adamawa and Taraba states to the south.

Jewel of the Savannah

Historically, Gombe state is a fusion of two distinct groups of people comprising the Emirate of Gombe North and the Ethnic Groups. Buba Yero, the first Emir of Gombe Empire and also the Modibbo, established the emirate during the jihad period in 1800. It emerged as part of a larger state building force of the 19^th century Sokoto jihad.

Under the British Government, Gombe state was administered through the mechanism of two administrative units which are the Gombe Native and the Tangale Waje Native Authorities. The two Authorities constituted Gombe division during the Colonial era.

Between 1976 and the present, the then two authorities have metamorphosed into the present eleven local government. And they are:

Gombe
Billiri
Akko
Kultungo
Balanga
Shongom
Funakaye
Dukku
Yamatta
Bayoga
Kwami

Ethnic Groups

Fulani is the dominant tribe in Gombe and they occupy the northern part of the state, followed by Tangale who occupy the southern part. Other ethnic groups are:

Hausa
Tera,
Waja
Bolewa

The current Emir of Gombe is Alhaji Abubakar Shehu III, who acceded to the throne on the 6th of June, 2014.

The State has 24 state house of assembly members,14 emirates/chiefdoms, 3 senators and 6 members of the National Assembly.

Resources

Gombe people are primarily farmers producing food and cash crops like:

Cereals: Maize, Sorghum, Rice and Wheat
Legumes: Cowpeas, Groundnut, Soya Beans and Bambara Nuts
Fruits: Orange, Lemon, Mango, Guava, Paw-Paw and Grapes
Vegetable: Tomatoes, Pepper, Onions, Okra, Pumpkin and Melon
Tree crops: Gum Arabic, Kenaf, Sugarcane, Sunflower and Ginger

Other major crops produced by Gombe state are Cotton, Cassava, Onion and Tobacco.

Tourist Attractions

In tourism, the state has a lot of attraction and they include:

The Tomb of Sultan Attahiru
The Tomb of Buba Yero
The famous Bima Hill
The Dadin Kowa Dam
The Killang Hill
The Tula Plateau
The Bulok Warm Spring
The Kalam Hill
The Cham Valley
The Ancient Binga Ruins
Major Mash Grave
LT Phillips Grave
Bace Hills
Tula Hideout Caves
Kanawa Forest

Gombe state (Jewel of the Savanna) is very hospitable and accommodates other Nigerian tribes. There is an undeniable cultural diversity in the state, people from other cultures and tribes live, work and trade freely.

Image and Content Credit: Maigaskiya, a photographic genius & social entrepreneur. You can follow his updates on Instagram and Twitter and also on www.maigaskiya.com

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Amazing Tourist Attractions to Visit in Calabar

on May 26, 2020 Locations 7 comments

Amazing Tourist Locations to Visit in Calabar

Did you enjoy Guide Abuja, the Centre of Unity and our favourite tourist locations to visit in Lagos in 2020 ? As a follow up to our Experiencing Naija Guide, we bring to you, Amazing Tourist Locations to Visit in Calabar. This guide provides you with some of our favourite tourist locations to visit in Calabar in 2020 in no particular order.

Calabar National Museum

Arguably one of the most prestigious museums in Nigeria, a building that served as the residence, and administrative office of the colonial government.

Photo Source: guardian.ng

Cross River National Park

The Cross River National Park is located in Cross River State, Nigeria. The park covers a total area of about 4,000 km², it has one of the oldest rainforests in Nigeria, rich in biodiversity and abundant in primate species.

Tinapa Resort

Tinapa Business & Leisure Resort is one of the best resorts in Nigeria. It provides a beautiful and conducive environment for relaxation, recreation, and business.

Obudu Mountain Resort

Obudu Mountain Resort formerly known as Obudu Cattle Ranch is a ranch and resort on the Obudu Plateau in Cross Rivers state.

Mary Slessor’s House

Mary Mitchell Slessor (2 December 1848 – 13 January 1915) was a Scottish Presbyterian missionary who arrived Nigeria, lived with the Efik people and was able to understand their local language. She was known for the promotion of women & children rights and the stop of the practice of infanticide of twins. The house where she lived in Okoyong Calabar is well protected till date and considered a major tourist attraction in Nigeria, and all over the world.

Photo source: lapesoetan.com

Agbokim Waterfalls

Agbokim Waterfalls is located in Etung local government area of Cross River State. It is close to the Cameroon border, consisting of seven streams which all separately pours down from a steep cliff providing a unique seven faced falls.

Photo source: hotelsrepublic.com

Drill Rehabilitation Centre

Drill Rehab Centre also is known as “Drill Ranch” is located in Calabar and was founded in 1991. Drill rehab breeds orphan Drill monkeys which is one of Africa’s most endangered species preventing them from going extinct.

Kwa Falls

Kwa Water Fall is an aesthetic waterfall located in a narrow steep gorge on the Kwa river in Cross Rivers State.

Calabar Carnival

Calabar Carnival commonly called “Africa’s Biggest Street Party” holds yearly from 1^st December – 31^st December to celebrate the rich culture & heritage of the people of Nigeria, Africa, and all over the world.

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Ado-Awaye: The Seven Wonders of The Mysterious Town in Oyo

on May 12, 2020 Locations add comment

Ado-Awaye: The Seven Wonders of The Mysterious Town in Oyo

Ado-Awaye, a small town formed in 1500 AD at Oyo State, is a wonder!

History has it that The Alaafin of Oyo’s crown prince, Koyi, who was supposed to become the Alaafin was denied and his younger brother, Onigbogi, took over. Out of anger, Koyi left Oyo with one of his father’s crowns to settle in Otta, his mother’s hometown. He travelled through plain grounds until he got to the foot of the Ado Hill, where he saw a cloud of smoke. Koyi climbed the mountain where he met some escapees from the Dahomey war. After some discussions and deliberations, they agreed to crown him King of Ado.

In this article, we highlight tourist attractions that make Ado-Awaye a wonder.

Oke Ishage (Ishage Rock)

Ishage Rock is a rainmaker for the Ado-Awaye people. It is a large elongated boulder of rock, balanced and standing upright on one of its small edges.

The fact that this boulder has not fallen off the steep mountainside on which it rests remains a mystery to the Ado-Awaye people and tourists visiting the mountain.

Whenever it doesn’t rain and rain is needed, the chief priest goes to the rock, covers the “waist” of the rock with a white cloth, and rainfalls for 3-4 days straight.

Iyake Lake

Iyake Lake is the only recognized suspended/hanging lake in Africa – one of the only two in the world after the Hanging Lake in Colorado. It is one of our favourite tourist locations to visit in Nigeria. It is said to be bottomless and have swallowed those who have tried to measure its depth.

Till date, whoever enters the lake never comes out of it. It is ascribed as the main god of fertility of the Mountain. The villagers believe that another world that looks like the earth exists beneath the lake, and whoever dives into the lake, transits into that world and will never be able to return to our world again.

Ìyá-Aláró Lake

It is also one of the numerous lakes on the mountain. The lake was named after an old woman in the Ado-Awaye village, who specializes in tie and dye batik.

The old woman, known as “Iya Alaro”, worships the lakes and sacrifices to it at specific times during the year.

The lake is characterized by a gloomy depth which underscores its association with Iya Alaro and its surface and surrounding is bedecked with a lush overgrowth of colourful vegetation.

The Elephant Tree

This is composed of the tangled trunk or root of a fallen tree which dramatically takes the form of the head and trunk of an elephant.

The eyes of the elephant are also well represented on the formation. Hikers on the mountain often climb the formation to sit on the ‘elephant’s head’ while posing for pictures.

Agbómofúnyàké

Agbómofúnyàké means “collect child and gives to iyake”. This little hole is located just beside the iyake lake. It is a common belief that, whenever the hole has water in it, whoever puts his leg into it gets dragged to the bottom of iyake lake.

Esè àwon Àgbà

Esè àwon Àgbà translates to “the footprint of the elders”. It is a cluster of large “footprints” found all over the mountain. It is believed that the gods once walked over the mountain to protect the locals during the time the locals stayed up the mountain.

Esè kan Aiyé Esè kan Òrun

This is a wide and deep chasm on the mountain which separates one part of the mountain from the other part that hosts the peak of the mountain.

Only brave mountain climbers dare to cross this valley as the rock slopes steeply along the valley walls. A narrow, very steep and slippery path across the valley is the only link to the two parts of the mountain.

Ado-Awaye can attract tourist attention from all around the world if given proper attention and exposure.

Image Credit: Adedotun Ajibade, a renown adventurer, environmentalist and outdoor photographer.

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Our favourite tourist attractions to visit in Lagos

on April 17, 2020 Locations 1 comment

Amazing Tourist locations to visit in Lagos

It is April 2020; the world at large is going through a partial lockdown, social distancing and other unusual measures due to the outbreak of Coronavirus, with the travel & tours industry hit very hard. But you can still count on Experiencing Naija to provide you with favourite tourist locations to visit in Lagos in 2020 in no particular order.

You can read on Where to Visit in Abuja; Experiencing Naija’s Guide to the Centre of Unity

Lekki Conservation Centre

Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC) was established in 1990 by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). The centre is rich in biodiversity, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the serene beauty of nature.

Tarkwa Bay Beach

Tarkwa Beach is referred to as one of the best beaches in Lagos, Nigeria. It is a great place for fun & relaxation. Tarkwa Bay is an artificial sheltered beach located near the Lagos harbour. Due to its island status, it is only accessible by boat or water taxis. The beach, popular with swimmers and water-sports enthusiasts, also has a welcoming resident community.

Photo source: pulse.ng

Photo source: inspirock.com

Nike Art Centre (Lagos)

Nike Art Gallery is referred to the No 1 art gallery in Nigeria, and arguable the largest of its kind in West Africa. It houses a large number of contemporary and traditional Nigerian Arts.

Photo source: localguidesconnect.com

Photo source: craftsvillage.com.ng

Freedom Park

Freedom Park is a memorial and leisure park, preserves the culture & heritage of Nigerians.

Photo source: cometonigeria.com

Photo source: bbc.com

Elegushi Beach

Photo source: hotels.ng

National Arts Theatre

The National Arts Theatre is the primary centre for the performing arts in Nigeria.

Photo source: nosygist.com.ng

Oniru Beach

Oniru beach is a great place for relaxation, swimming, also offers horseback riding.

Photo source: visitnaija.com

Red Door Gallery

Red Door Gallery serves as an entire art value chain, collects, and deals with African contemporary art.

Photo source: craftsvillage.com.ng

Lekki Arts & Crafts Market

Lekki Arts & Craft Market, also known as Oba Elegushi International Market or Jakande Art Market showcases a lot of Arts.

Photo source: theculturetrip.com

Photo source: lifewithtwotees.com

Fela’s Shrine

Fela’s Shrine commonly referred to as the Afrika Shrine is located in Ikeja, Lagos. It was established to celebrate the great African legend ‘’Fela Kuti’’ who was against Corruption & Bad Governance, it is open for entertainment, serves as the host location of the annual felabration music featuring a lot of artists from across the world.

Photo source: premiumtimesng.com

Photo source: cassiedavies.com

Mydrim Gallery

Mydrim Gallery is one of the oldest in Lagos state. It showcases a lot of art and aims to promote young Nigerian Artists.

Photo source: nationalbusextra.com

Lagos Poker Club

Lagos poker club is a classy place to enjoy nice games, and have fun.

Photo source: choicecasino.com

Tafawa Balewa Square

The Tafawa Balewa Square is a ceremonial ground named after the first Nigerian Prime Minister.

Photo source: mapio.net

Omenka Gallery

Omenka Art Gallery showcases a fine selection of established & emerging contemporary Nigerian and international art.

Photo source: omenkaonline.com

Did we miss any other top tourist location in Lagos? Tell us in the comments

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Where to Visit in Abuja; Experiencing Naija’s Guide to the Centre of Unity

on January 30, 2020 Locations 2 comments

Often, we see people search or ask around about “where to visit in Abuja” or “where to go on a date in Abuja” or even “what to do in Abuja”.

READY?, SET?, GO!

Search no more, we at Experiencing Naija have compiled a detailed breakdown to guide you on where to visit in Abuja, you can take this as Experiencing Naija’s Guide to the Centre of Unity to answer that question, where to visit in Abuja.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is the largest public park in Abuja. Located in the Maitama district, it offers a serene environment for relaxation. Millennium Park is the largest public park of Abuja and is located in the Three Arms Zone of Central Area, Abuja.

A Visit To Magic Land

Magic Land formerly referred to as Wonderland Park is a major recreational park in Abuja, offering a bunch of recreational facilities for different age groups. Magic land is located at No. 1, Kukwaba Hills, Constitution Ave, Wuye, Abuja and is guaranteed to be a top destination and favourite for the family.

Jabi Lake & Park, Abuja’s Popular Water Body

Jabi Lake is a major tourist attraction in Abuja. A lovely serene environment to enjoy a boat cruise and to relax. Located in Jabi District, Abuja, Jabi lake and park are known to be a family favourite offering fun and that unique serene view.

Jabi Lake Jabi Park — Jabi Lake and Park, Abuja

Jabi Boat Club

Jabi Boat club is a recreational centre that offers water-based recreational facilities. Located in Jabi District, and close to the popular Jabi Lake, Abuja, Jabi boat club is a relaxing and serene location with a beautiful lakeside view. You can visit the boat club website here.

Lower Usuma Dam, Serenity in Abuja

The Lower Usuma Dam supplies the whole of Abuja water. Constructed in 1990, the lower Usuma dam is located in Shafa Downstream Community, Bwari Area, Abuja, and is one of the four operating dams that supply the city with drinking water. It holds 93 million cubic meters of raw water which flow to five water plants, where the water is treated before it is passed to Abuja.

Thought Pyramid Art Centre

Thought pyramid collects and conserves modern & contemporary African art. The mission of The Thought Pyramid Art Centre is to collect, conserve, and study modern and contemporary art of Africa, and the African Diaspora. They exhibit the art of our times from a variety of perspectives while situating them with the context of a global art movement. The Thought Pyramid Art Centre is located at 18 Libreville Crescent, Wuse, Abuja. Visit the Thought Pyramid Art Centre website

IBB International Golf & Country Club

The IBB International Golf & Country Club is a prestigious recreational & tourist attraction located on the Aso drive in Abuja. A perfect combination of luxury and ambience. The IBB International Golf and Country Club, bisected by many streams, ponds and lakes with about 25 bridges, is one of the most beautiful parkland courses in sub-Saharan Africa, occupying a total area of approximately 101 hectares and the playing distance of 6,098 metres. IBB International Golf & Country Club is situated close to the Presidential Villa and the National Assembly, the course occupies a 250-acre site adjacent to the National Arboretum. You can visit the website here.

Pedam Dam

Nike Art Gallery (Abuja)

“Art is an expression of thoughts and emotions on the canvas. Nike Art Gallery offers you the opportunity to experience the thoughts and heart of great artists. It’s an amazing place to be. Go, learn and have fun” – AU club tour

Nike Art Gallery is located in Piwoyi Primary School, Kilometre 7.5 Abuja International Airport Road, Lugbe, Abuja and offers you that unique blend of Textile artists, painters, sculptors, dancers and drummers.

National Commission For Museums & Monuments

The National Commission for Museums and Monuments is a federal agency of Nigeria, which operates several museums and historic sites in Nigeria.

Sarius Palmetum; hidden and exciting place to visit in Abuja

Sarius Palmetum is located in Kwali, Abuja. The botanical garden has a variety of plants & flowers for an exciting view.

Emerald Park

Emerald Park is located at Funmilayo Ransome Kuti Road, Area 3, Abuja. The park offers a wide range of modern facilities for sports, children playground, Leisure & Events.

Almat Farms, A Treasure in Abuja.

You have probably heard of various tourist destinations in Abuja and Nigeria as a whole, but we are sure you have not heard of Abuja’s open secret; Almat Farms. Almat Farms offers you an all in one place on where to Visit in Abuja.

Located on a vast portion of green and beautiful vegetation that spans over 69.5 hectares of land. Located in the Kuje Area of Abuja, with high standards of crops cultivation. The farm has 31 greenhouses to produce fresh vegetables. However, unlike the typical Nigerian farm setting, the farm offers an array of delights, promoting hospitality and tourism. It is full of eye-catchy views and there are many exciting activities to engage in while at the farm.