Kaduna is now the next major hub after Lagos to access Nigeria. Abuja used to occupy this position, but with the airport closed for renovation, all roads lead through Kaduna.
An insurance company is providing cover due to the increased vehicular traffic on the Abuja-Kaduna road and International flights have been rerouted to this state. Ethiopian Airlines landed the first international flight in Kaduna’s airport some weeks ago.
#TravelthruKaduna is an initiative created by the Kaduna State government to showcase its cultural, contemporary, and historic gems. You may have watched pop-up adverts on YouTube or read tweets from this handle.
Discover settlements that date as far back as 2,500 years ago, visit a waterfall that you hear before you see, and play as a family in one of the most aesthetically appealing horse stables turned resort. Take advantage of this great timing to tour Kaduna, and uncover a side of Nigeria you don’t see often.
#1. KAJURU CASTLE
This castle with its medieval décor and enormous grounds is impressive. It is situated on a high hill and the drive is not for the faint-hearted. Spend a night like royalty and take a dip in the steel pool. The Workers’ Day weekend may be a good time to join up with a group for a visit.
#2. FIFTH CHUKKER RESORT
Fifth Chukker is a must-see-and-experience when visiting Kaduna. Ride the horses, get on a bicycle, or go quad biking as a family, group of friends, or on a solo retreat. The grounds provide for gorgeous strolls and some of the best polo players strut their stuff here.
#3. MATSIRGA WATERFALLS
This is a waterfall to go chasing after. You hear it before you see it and when you do, it is simply breathtaking. Kagoro Hills is the source and the waters flow into a gorge surrounded by rocks. This one of nature’s finest that Kaduna offers.
#4. KAMUKU NATIONAL PARK
Described as a treasure in the Savannah, discover exotic species and wildlife right at your feet. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Guinea Savannah vegetation and protected forest reserves. There are even elephants at this park.
#5. THE NOK SETTLEMENT
As a lover of dated art pieces and treasure hunts, you will feel welcome at the home of some of the best terracotta pieces found. This location has influenced cultures and people for over two thousand years. Step back in history as you explore this rock shelter.
#6. THE AREWA HOUSE
Does the name Sir Ahmadu Bello ring a bell? It certainly should. A descendant of Usman Dan Fodio, he was the first premier of the Northern region of Nigeria pre-independence and the first Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Arewa House, his home preserves documentation on Northern Nigeria’s history.
#7. BYBLOS RESTAURANT
Travel is not complete without finding a good restaurant to refuel. Authentic Lebanese cuisine is always filling and Byblos is where to go. There is freshly baked Pita bread, delicious hummus, and dishes with vegetable, meat, or fish prepared to your taste.
#8. RIGASA TRAIN STATION
For a fee of N1,050 (Standard) or N 1,500 (Executive), travelers can shuttle between the states of Abuja and Kaduna. This modern railway terminal is a great way to taken in the scenery of North West Nigeria and interact with others. Major stops include Kubwa and Idu. Train schedules can be found here.
