# Abuja > capital city of Nigeria **Wikidata**: [Q3787](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3787) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abuja) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/abuja ## Summary Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, serving as the federal capital since December 12, 1991. Located in the Federal Capital Territory, it is a large human settlement and a major economic, political, and cultural hub in Nigeria. The city was established as a planned capital to replace Lagos, addressing Nigeria's need for a centralized government and administrative functions. ## Key Facts - **Capital of Nigeria**: Abuja became the federal capital on December 12, 1991, replacing Lagos. - **Population**: Estimated at 1,693,400 as of 2022. - **Geographic Location**: Situated in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. - **Elevation**: 360 meters above sea level. - **Time Zone**: UTC+01:00. - **Key Infrastructure**: Home to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the National Assembly, and major government institutions. - **Administrative Divisions**: Contains areas such as Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abuja Municipal. - **Memberships**: Part of the World Tourism Cities Federation. - **Notable Landmarks**: Includes Jabi Lake, Abuja National Mosque, and Abuja Stadium. - **Economic Hub**: Hosts financial institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria and major banks such as Access Bank. - **Cultural Institutions**: Features the National Library of Nigeria, Nike Art Gallery, and Veritas University. - **Government Agencies**: Houses entities like the National Emergency Management Agency, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, and the Nigerian Television Authority. - **Political Parties**: Headquarters for parties such as the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, and All Nigeria Peoples Party. - **Media and Communication**: Home to media outlets like Leadership Newspaper, Premium Times, and NewsDiary Nigeria. - **Environmental Initiatives**: Includes the Abuja Environmental Protection Board and the National Council on Climate Change. - **Agricultural and Development Agencies**: Hosts the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, National Fertilizer Company of Nigeria, and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria. - **Transportation**: Served by the Nigerian Railway Corporation and the Transmission Company of Nigeria. - **Education**: Features universities like the University of Abuja, National Open University of Nigeria, and Veritas University. - **Healthcare**: Includes the National Hospital Abuja and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency. - **Security and Defense**: Home to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigerian Police Force, and the Nigerian Customs Service. - **Sports and Recreation**: Features Abuja Stadium and Jabi Recreational Park. - **Religious Sites**: Includes the Abuja National Mosque and the Apostolic Nunciature to Nigeria. - **Economic Institutions**: Hosts the Central Bank of Nigeria, Debt Management Office, and the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund. - **Tourism and Culture**: Part of the World Tourism Cities Federation and features cultural institutions like the Nike Art Gallery and the National Library of Nigeria. - **Environmental and Climate Agencies**: Includes the National Council on Climate Change and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency. - **Legal and Regulatory Bodies**: Houses the Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Identity Management Commission. - **Financial Services**: Hosts banks like Access Bank, Unity Bank, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. - **Media and Communication**: Features media outlets like the Nigerian Television Authority, News Agency of Nigeria, and Leadership Newspaper. - **Transportation and Infrastructure**: Includes the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Transmission Company of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Postal Service. - **Agricultural and Development Agencies**: Hosts the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, National Fertilizer Company of Nigeria, and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria. - **Environmental and Climate Agencies**: Includes the National Council on Climate Change and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency. - **Legal and Regulatory Bodies**: Houses the Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Identity Management Commission. - **Financial Services**: Hosts banks like Access Bank, Unity Bank, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. - **Media and Communication**: Features media outlets like the Nigerian Television Authority, News Agency of Nigeria, and Leadership Newspaper. - **Transportation and Infrastructure**: Includes the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Transmission Company of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Postal Service. ## FAQs - **What is Abuja's population?** Abuja has a population of approximately 1.69 million as of 2022, making it a large and growing urban center in Nigeria. - **When did Abuja become the capital of Nigeria?** Abuja officially became the federal capital of Nigeria on December 12, 1991, replacing Lagos as the central administrative hub. - **What are the key landmarks in Abuja?** Key landmarks include Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the National Assembly, Jabi Lake, Abuja National Mosque, and Abuja Stadium. - **What government institutions are based in Abuja?** Abuja is home to major government institutions such as the National Assembly, Central Bank of Nigeria, Supreme Court of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Television Authority. - **What is the elevation of Abuja?** Abuja is situated at an elevation of 360 meters above sea level. - **What is the time zone of Abuja?** Abuja operates in the UTC+01:00 time zone. - **What are the administrative divisions within Abuja?** Abuja contains several administrative areas, including Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abuja Municipal. - **What is the significance of Abuja's location?** Abuja's location in the Federal Capital Territory ensures it serves as a centralized hub for Nigeria's government, administration, and economic activities. - **What are the major financial institutions in Abuja?** Major financial institutions in Abuja include the Central Bank of Nigeria, Access Bank, Unity Bank, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. - **What cultural institutions are located in Abuja?** Cultural institutions in Abuja include the National Library of Nigeria, Nike Art Gallery, and Veritas University. - **What environmental and climate agencies are based in Abuja?** Environmental and climate agencies based in Abuja include the National Council on Climate Change, Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, and Abuja Environmental Protection Board. - **What legal and regulatory bodies are located in Abuja?** Legal and regulatory bodies in Abuja include the Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Identity Management Commission. - **What media and communication outlets are based in Abuja?** Media and communication outlets based in Abuja include the Nigerian Television Authority, News Agency of Nigeria, Leadership Newspaper, and Premium Times. - **What transportation and infrastructure networks are in Abuja?** Transportation and infrastructure networks in Abuja include the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Transmission Company of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Postal Service. - **What agricultural and development agencies are based in Abuja?** Agricultural and development agencies based in Abuja include the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, National Fertilizer Company of Nigeria, and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria. ## Why It Matters Abuja plays a pivotal role in Nigeria's governance, economy, and development. As the federal capital, it serves as the political, administrative, and cultural center of Nigeria, hosting key government institutions, international organizations, and major economic activities. The city's strategic location and infrastructure make it a crucial hub for national and international interactions. Abuja's development as a planned capital addresses Nigeria's need for centralized governance, economic growth, and social progress. The city's growth and development are essential for Nigeria's future, driving economic expansion, technological advancement, and social welfare initiatives. ## Notable For - **Planned Capital**: Abuja was designed as a planned city to replace Lagos, addressing Nigeria's need for a centralized government and administrative functions. - **Economic Hub**: The city hosts major financial institutions, international organizations, and economic activities, making it a key economic center in Nigeria. - **Cultural and Educational Hub**: Abuja is home to cultural institutions, universities, and research centers, contributing to Nigeria's intellectual and cultural development. - **Infrastructure Development**: The city features modern infrastructure, including airports, transportation networks, and government buildings, supporting Nigeria's economic and social progress. - **Environmental and Climate Initiatives**: Abuja hosts agencies focused on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. - **Political and Administrative Center**: As the federal capital, Abuja serves as the political and administrative hub of Nigeria, hosting key government institutions and international organizations. - **Tourism and Cultural Attractions**: Abuja offers cultural attractions, recreational facilities, and tourism opportunities, enhancing Nigeria's cultural and tourism sectors. - **Economic and Financial Services**: The city provides essential financial services, banking, and economic activities, supporting Nigeria's economic growth and development. - **Legal and Regulatory Framework**: Abuja houses key legal and regulatory bodies, ensuring Nigeria's compliance with national and international standards. - **Transportation and Infrastructure Networks**: The city features robust transportation and infrastructure networks, facilitating economic and social development. - **Agricultural and Development Agencies**: Abuja hosts agencies focused on agricultural development, food security, and rural infrastructure, supporting Nigeria's agricultural sector. - **Environmental and Climate Agencies**: The city is home to agencies dedicated to environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. - **Legal and Regulatory Bodies**: Abuja houses key legal and regulatory bodies, ensuring Nigeria's compliance with national and international standards. - **Financial Services**: The city provides essential financial services, banking, and economic activities, supporting Nigeria's economic growth and development. - **Media and Communication**: Abuja is a hub for media and communication, hosting major media outlets, broadcasting companies, and information agencies. - **Transportation and Infrastructure**: The city features robust transportation and infrastructure networks, facilitating economic and social development. - **Agricultural and Development Agencies**: Abuja hosts agencies focused on agricultural development, food security, and rural infrastructure, supporting Nigeria's agricultural sector. ## Body ### History Abuja was established as the federal capital of Nigeria on December 12, 1991, replacing Lagos. The decision to relocate the capital was driven by the need for a centralized government and administrative functions, addressing Nigeria's political and economic challenges. The city was designed as a planned capital, featuring modern infrastructure, government buildings, and key institutions. ### Geography and Location Abuja is situated in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, at an elevation of 360 meters above sea level. The city is located in the UTC+01:00 time zone and features key geographic landmarks such as Jabi Lake and the Abuja National Mosque. ### Demographics and Population Abuja has a population of approximately 1.69 million as of 2022, making it a large and growing urban center in Nigeria. The city's population has grown significantly over the years, reflecting its role as the federal capital and economic hub. ### Economy and Infrastructure Abuja serves as a major economic and infrastructure hub in Nigeria, hosting key financial institutions, international organizations, and economic activities. The city features modern infrastructure, including airports, transportation networks, and government buildings, supporting Nigeria's economic and social progress. ### Government and Politics As the federal capital, Abuja is home to key government institutions, international organizations, and political parties. The city hosts the National Assembly, Central Bank of Nigeria, Supreme Court of Nigeria, and major political parties such as the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, and All Nigeria Peoples Party. ### Culture and Education Abuja is a cultural and educational hub, featuring institutions such as the National Library of Nigeria, Nike Art Gallery, and Veritas University. The city offers educational opportunities, cultural attractions, and recreational facilities, enhancing Nigeria's intellectual and cultural development. ### Environment and Climate Abuja hosts agencies focused on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. The city features environmental initiatives, climate agencies, and sustainable development programs, addressing Nigeria's environmental and climate challenges. ### Transportation and Infrastructure Abuja features robust transportation and infrastructure networks, including the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Transmission Company of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Postal Service. The city's infrastructure supports economic and social development, facilitating national and international interactions. ### Agriculture and Development Abuja hosts agencies focused on agricultural development, food security, and rural infrastructure. The city features agricultural and development programs, supporting Nigeria's agricultural sector and rural communities. ### Legal and Regulatory Framework Abuja houses key legal and regulatory bodies, including the Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Identity Management Commission. The city ensures compliance with national and international standards, supporting Nigeria's legal and regulatory framework. ### Financial Services and Economy Abuja provides essential financial services, banking, and economic activities, supporting Nigeria's economic growth and development. The city hosts major financial institutions, international organizations, and economic activities, making it a key economic center in Nigeria. ### Media and Communication Abuja is a hub for media and communication, hosting major media outlets, broadcasting companies, and information agencies. The city features media and communication networks, supporting Nigeria's information and communication sectors. ### Sports and Recreation Abuja offers sports and recreational facilities, including Abuja Stadium and Jabi Recreational Park. The city provides opportunities for sports, recreation, and leisure activities, enhancing Nigeria's cultural and social development. ### Religious and Cultural Sites Abuja features religious and cultural sites, including the Abuja National Mosque and the Apostolic Nunciature to Nigeria. The city offers cultural attractions, religious facilities, and historical landmarks, enhancing Nigeria's cultural and religious heritage. ### Economic Institutions and Organizations Abuja hosts major economic institutions and organizations, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, Debt Management Office, and the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund. The city provides essential economic services, financial institutions, and economic activities, supporting Nigeria's economic growth and development. ### Tourism and Cultural Attractions Abuja offers cultural attractions, recreational facilities, and tourism opportunities, enhancing Nigeria's cultural and tourism sectors. The city features cultural institutions, historical landmarks, and recreational facilities, attracting visitors and tourists from around the world. ### Environmental and Climate Agencies Abuja hosts agencies focused on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. The city features environmental initiatives, climate agencies, and sustainable development programs, addressing Nigeria's environmental and climate challenges. ### Legal and Regulatory Bodies Abuja houses key legal and regulatory bodies, including the Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Identity Management Commission. The city ensures compliance with national and international standards, supporting Nigeria's legal and regulatory framework. ### Financial Services and Economy Abuja provides essential financial services, banking, and economic activities, supporting Nigeria's economic growth and development. The city hosts major financial institutions, international organizations, and economic activities, making it a key economic center in Nigeria. ### Media and Communication Networks Abuja is a hub for media and communication, hosting major media outlets, broadcasting companies, and information agencies. The city features media and communication networks, supporting Nigeria's information and communication sectors. ### Transportation and Infrastructure Networks Abuja features robust transportation and infrastructure networks, including the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Transmission Company of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Postal Service. The city's infrastructure supports economic and social development, facilitating national and international interactions. ### Agricultural and Development Programs Abuja hosts agencies focused on agricultural development, food security, and rural infrastructure. The city features agricultural and development programs, supporting Nigeria's agricultural sector and rural communities. ### Environmental and Climate Initiatives Abuja features environmental initiatives, climate agencies, and sustainable development programs, addressing Nigeria's environmental and climate challenges. The city hosts agencies focused on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. ### Legal and Regulatory Framework Abuja ensures compliance with national and international standards, supporting Nigeria's legal and regulatory framework. The city houses key legal and regulatory bodies, including the Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Identity Management Commission. ### Financial Services and Economy Abuja provides essential financial services, banking, and economic activities, supporting Nigeria's economic growth and development. The city hosts major financial institutions, international organizations, and economic activities, making it a key economic center in Nigeria. ### Media and Communication Networks Abuja is a hub for media and communication, hosting major media outlets, broadcasting companies, and information agencies. The city features media and communication networks, supporting Nigeria's information and communication sectors. ### Transportation and Infrastructure Networks Abuja features robust transportation and infrastructure networks, including the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Transmission Company of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Postal Service. The city's infrastructure supports economic and social development, facilitating national and international interactions. ### Agricultural and Development Programs Abuja hosts agencies focused on agricultural development, food security, and rural infrastructure. The city features agricultural and development programs, supporting Nigeria's agricultural sector and rural communities. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.jpl.nas) 2. [Source](https://www.britannica.com/place/Abuja-federal-capital-territory-Nigeria) 3. [Source](https://nigerianfinder.com/local-governments-in-nigeria-the-full-list/) 4. [Source](https://nigerianinfopedia.com.ng/fct-abuja-local-government-areas-and-towns/) 5. Virtual International Authority File 6. [Source](https://cn.wtcf.org.cn/citys/3502-2.html) 7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 8. MusicBrainz 9. Q120475222. 1989 10. Great dictionary of geographical names 11. [Source](https://www.citypopulation.de/en/nigeria/admin/) 12. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf) 13. Q136327673. 2000 14. GeoNames 15. [Source](https://service.unece.org/trade/locode/ng.htm) 16. YSO-Wikidata mapping project 17. Quora 18. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php) 19. FactGrid