Abuja, estimated population 1,078,700, is the capital of Nigeria in western Africa. When it was decided to move the national capital from Lagos in 1976, a capital territory was chosen for its location near the center of the country. The planned city was located in the center of the Federal Capital Territory. Abuja officially became Nigeria's capital in 1991.
Most countries moved their embassies to Abuja and maintain their larger former embassies as consulates in the commercial capital, Lagos.
Abuja's feature is Aso Rock, a 400 metre monolith left by water erosion. The parliament, courts, and much of the town extends to the south of the rock. Aso means victorious in the language of the (now displaced) Asokoro (the people of victory).
Besides the main government buildings, the central mosque, and the (still uncompleted) cathedral are architectural landmarks.
External links
Last updated: 10-22-2005 12:56:06
