Zungeru

Zungeru is a historic town in Niger State, Nigeria, known for being the former colonial capital of Northern Nigeria during British rule. It is also notable as the birthplace of prominent Nigerian leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria's first President.

Understand

Zungeru is a small town with significant historical importance. It served as the capital of the Northern Protectorate from 1902 to 1916 before the British moved the capital to Kaduna. The town holds a unique place in Nigerian colonial history, and several sites within and around it reflect this past.

Get in

By road

Zungeru is accessible by road via Minna (the state capital of Niger) and other major towns like Bida. The roads are relatively well-maintained, and it is a drive of approximately 1.5 hours from Minna.

By air

• 1 Minna Airport. The nearest airport is located in Minna. From there, you can hire a car or take a bus to reach Zungeru. (updated Sep 2024)

By rail

Historically, Zungeru was a hub of Nigeria's railway system. The Zungeru railway station was an important stop, but today, train services to Zungeru are limited.

Get around

Zungeru is a small town, and most of the sites are within walking distance. Taxis and motorcycles (commonly known as "okada") are also available for hire.

See

• Lord Lugard's Residence. The ruins of the house of Frederick Lugard, the first Governor-General of Nigeria, can still be seen in Zungeru. (updated Sep 2024)
• Colonial structures. Zungeru still houses several remnants of British colonial rule, including administrative buildings, a post office, and some colonial bungalows. (updated Sep 2024)
• 1 Zungeru cemetery. This is a historic graveyard where British colonial officers were buried. Some of the tombstones date back to the early 1900s. (updated Sep 2024)

Birthplace of Nnamdi Azikiwe

• 2 Birthplace of Nnamdi Azikiwe. Zungeru is the birthplace of Nigeria's first President, Nnamdi Azikiwe. Although not a formal museum, the town honors his legacy, and visitors often tour the area. (updated Sep 2024)
• 3 Zungeru Hydro Power Dam. 700 megawatts (940,000 hp) hydroelectric power plant (updated Sep 2024)

Gurara Waterfalls

• 4 Gurara Waterfall. About an hour's drive from Zungeru, these stunning falls are a popular picnic spot and a great place to cool off during the hot season. (updated Sep 2024)

Gurara Waterfalls

• 5 Gurara River. River Gurara in Nigeria. It is located in the central part of the country, 130 km southwest of Abuja, the capital of the country. The River Gurara is part of the Nigyer watershed, and a tributary of the Nigyer. (updated Sep 2024)

Do

• Visit the local market: Zungeru has vibrant local markets where you can buy foodstuffs, clothing, and local crafts. The market is a good place to experience local life.
• Historical tours: Guided tours are available to explore the colonial past of Zungeru, including Lord Lugard's house, old military barracks, and administrative buildings.

Drink

Most drinks available in Zungeru are non-alcoholic, including soft drinks and local beverages like fura da nono (fermented milk and millet) and zobo (hibiscus drink).

Sleep

• 1 Diamond Guet Inn.. (updated Sep 2024)

Stay safe

Zungeru is generally a peaceful town, but like in most rural areas, it is advisable to avoid traveling late at night. Always ensure you have local contacts or guides to help navigate unfamiliar places.

Go next

• Minna
• Bida