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10 Ancient Towns That Became Nigeria’s Oldest Cities

Nigeria has many ancient towns that have grown into major cities. These towns played key roles in trade, governance, and culture long before colonial rule. Today, they remain important centers of business, education, and tourism. Below are 10 of Nigeria’s oldest cities.

1. Benin City

Benin City is one of Nigeria’s oldest cities, dating back to at least the 11th century. It was the capital of the Benin Kingdom, known for its bronze artworks and advanced political system. European traders visited in the 15th century, exchanging goods with the Benin people. The British invaded in 1897, but Benin City remains a cultural and economic center.

2. Kano

kano

Kano has been a center of trade for over 1,000 years. It became a major city-state in the Hausa region, thriving on trans-Saharan trade. Traders exchanged goods such as textiles, leather, and gold. Islam spread to Kano in the 14th century, shaping its culture and governance. Today, Kano is one of Nigeria’s largest cities and an industrial hub.

3. Zaria

zaria

Zaria, originally known as Zazzau, was a powerful Hausa city-state. It grew as a center for trade and military power. In the 16th century, Queen Amina expanded Zaria’s influence through warfare. The city later became part of the Sokoto Caliphate. Today, Zaria is home to Ahmadu Bello University and remains a key educational center in northern Nigeria.

4. Ibadan

ibadan

Ibadan was founded in the early 19th century as a military camp for warriors from Oyo, Ife, and Ijebu. It became a powerful city-state, controlling trade and politics. The city grew into a center of learning and commerce, hosting Nigeria’s first university in 1948. Today, Ibadan is a major metropolitan area in southwestern Nigeria.

5. Lagos

Lagos was a fishing settlement before it became a major trade hub. The Awori people first inhabited the area, naming it “Eko.” Portuguese traders arrived in the 15th century, followed by the British, who later took control. Lagos developed rapidly and became Nigeria’s capital in 1914. Though Abuja replaced it in 1991, Lagos remains the country’s largest city and commercial center.

6. Ile-Ife

ile ife

Ile-Ife is one of the oldest Yoruba cities and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. According to Yoruba tradition, it is the birthplace of the Yoruba people and civilization. The city became a center of political and religious authority, with the Ooni of Ife serving as a key figure in Yoruba history. Ile-Ife is also famous for its ancient terracotta and bronze artworks. Today, it remains an important cultural and historical site in Nigeria.

7. Abeokuta

Abeokuta was founded in the early 19th century by the Egba people. They settled near Olumo Rock for protection from invaders. The city became a major trade center and engaged in commerce with European traders. Christianity and Western education spread in Abeokuta, shaping its development. Today, it is the capital of Ogun State and a cultural landmark in southwestern Nigeria.

8. Sokoto

sokoto

Sokoto became a major Islamic center in the early 19th century. Usman dan Fodio led a jihad that established the Sokoto Caliphate, making the city its capital. The caliphate unified much of northern Nigeria under Islamic rule. Sokoto remains a religious and political center, holding historical sites such as the Sultan’s Palace and the Shehu Mosque.

9. Calabar

calabar

Calabar was a major port city long before colonial rule. The Efik people controlled trade in the region, dealing in palm oil and other goods. European traders arrived in the 16th century, making Calabar a key entry point for British influence. The city played a role in Nigeria’s early colonial administration. Today, Calabar is known for tourism and its annual carnival.

10. Enugu

Enugu’s history is tied to coal mining. The British discovered coal in the area in 1909, leading to rapid growth. Enugu became a colonial administrative center and an economic hub. The city played a key role in Nigeria’s early industrial development. Today, it remains a major city in southeastern Nigeria, with a strong presence in trade and education.

FAQ

What is the oldest city in Nigeria?

Benin City is one of Nigeria’s oldest cities, dating back to at least the 11th century. It was the capital of the Benin Kingdom and played a major role in trade and governance.

Why was Lagos an important city in history?

Lagos was a trade hub for centuries. It attracted Portuguese, British, and other traders due to its coastal location. It later became Nigeria’s capital and remains the country’s economic center.

Which Nigerian city was a major Islamic center?

Sokoto became a key Islamic center in the early 19th century when Usman dan Fodio established the Sokoto Caliphate. It remains an important religious and political city in Nigeria.

What role did Enugu play in Nigeria’s history?

Enugu developed as a coal mining city in the early 20th century. The discovery of coal led to rapid industrial growth, making it an important colonial administrative center.