What is the capital of Nigeria?
Abuja is the capital of Nigeria. It replaced Lagos as the capital on December 12, 1991, and was built as a planned city in the center of the country.
Nigerian leaders decided in 1976 to build a new capital away from crowded Lagos on the coast. They chose a location near the center of the country, partly because it was seen as neutral ground between Nigeria's major ethnic and religious groups. Construction began in the late 1970s, and government offices moved there in the 1980s and 1990s.
Abuja is known for its planned layout and landmarks such as Aso Rock, a large granite outcrop near the presidential villa and the National Assembly. The Nigerian National Mosque and the National Christian Centre stand near each other in the city.
Lagos remains the giant
Lagos is still Nigeria's largest city and its main commercial and cultural center, with an estimated population of more than 15 million people in its metropolitan area. It is home to the country's biggest port and the heart of Nollywood, Nigeria's huge film industry.
Did You Know?
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with more than 220 million people, and one of the most populous in the world.