Makurdi

Makurdi is a city of 365,000 people (2016), and the capital of Benue State of North Central Nigeria. It sits in a very agricultural area along the Benue River with the fitting moniker of food basket of the nation. Being the state capital, it houses the government house and head offices of all important government agencies, as well as military facilities. While it may be not possess exquisite hotels and resorts for an holiday, it is indeed a place to visit if you want to enjoy local cuisines, dance and cultural events.

This article includes Kanshio district.

Understand
Makurdi is more of a political and administrative city than is commercial. It is also a major transport route between the north and south of Nigeria. It is predominantly made up of the Tiv tribe, who have been in leadership since civilian rule, then the Idoma, Igede, Etulo people. The capital is mostly a Christian city, with Muslims and African traditional religion making the minority. The city is quite accommodating as it is the cultural capital of the state.

The town is slow, laid-back and there are lots of men around drinking alcohol. As long as you do not go poking into their business, you'll be just fine.

Climate
The city is mostly warm with an average temperature of 32°C. There is occasional flooding of the river during high rainfall in the wet season.

Get in
It is on the main narrow gauge railway line running north from Port Harcourt.

By bus
There are regular bus services linking Makurdi to neighbouring towns.

Prominent among shuttle service providers are the Benue Links with their park in Makurdi stationed opposite Access Bank at the Wurukum axis of the City and the God's Will Transport Services, Pleasure Travels which is opposite Benue Links, Nyanya Transport Company, Yaman Transport Company. They leave early so be sure to check in on time.

By train
Makurdi has a that provides the only rail link between the northern and eastern parts of Nigeria.

By car
Situated in the middle belt of the country, it has major roads that is accessible from all parts of the country.

Makurdi to Lafia, Minna, Jos Road in the north. To the south we have the Makurdi to Otukpo, Enugu, Owerri, to Calabar in Cross River State.

Very important and a busy route is that which leads to the west. The Makurdi to Yandev to Katsina Ala to Wukari roads.

By boat
Makurdi has a river that flows all year round, higher during the rainy season and shallow in some parts during the dry season. There are no high-end sea vessels but one can find engine boats, paddled boats and some steam engine boats.

Get around
The major means of moving around Makurdi is shuttle mini buses, motorcycles and tricycles (keke-napep). It is best to have a local guide and to not go out at night. Touts can be a nuisance, and street gangs are best avoided.

There are two bridges which connect the southern and northern banks of the River Benue. One is the dual carriageway bridge for pedestrians and vehicles while the other is the rail bridge.

By bus
The buses ply routes through the city. The cost depends on the length of your trip with the minimum being ₦50. You can get a bus for virtually anywhere in the city centre. Ask what route that they will be taking.

By motorcycle
Ahh! The preferred choice of movement if urgency is the word. Bikes are the fastest and can take you to your doorstep, unlike buses. However it is not advisable for long distances as the fare will be really expensive. These bikes are commonly known as Okada. They are quick, cheap, and save a lot of walking. You should try this option if you do not know exactly where you are going as most of them know the city off hat. Negotiation is key. You do not want to be outsmarted as they will quickly know if you are a newbie to town.

Before you try and negotiate any transportation fare, always confirm the fare from a local. If you have a Nigerian friend, let them negotiate for you as the quoted fare differs greatly for locals and foreigners.