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12 Affordable Wedding Venues in Nigeria

by Ifeoma/March 17 07:38 AM Last updated on The vows, the small chops, the Jollof rice, the open bar... these are a few things that make a Nigerian wedding go superbly. As powerful as these things might be, they do not come close to the importance of having a good venue. This is because; the venue helps in creating the perfect ambience. However, beautiful wedding venues can be, well, quite pricey and for someone who is looking to celebrate their special day while maintaining an affordable budget, those pricey places would most likely not cut it. So, here are 12 affordable wedding venues in Nigeria that have been curated for your viewing pleasure and also to help you make a good choice. 1. Chida International Hotel, Abuja The hotel is located in Utako, Abuja. The hall in Chida International Hotel is not specifically for weddings but can fit a capacity of at least 150, banquet hall style. The colour scheme and style of the hall affords the event decorator the freedom to transform the venue however they please. The conference hall in question costs ?250, 000 but it does not include decor or rental charges. 2. Jaekel?s Museum House, Railway Compound, Lagos This place is perfect for those who want an outdoor wedding in a low key area. The setting is very rustic as the colonial style House which is now a museum creates a certain retro ambience. There is even the Jaekel?s Secret Garden that is absolutely perfect for taking wedding pictures. Also, there is the historic rail car that contains two seats which would also be a good inspiration for the wedding photographer. It is located at Railway Compound, Ebute-Metta, Yaba, Lagos. The compound costs ?150,000 a day minus any decor and that is a good steal compared to the recent wedding venue price deals. It can contain at least 300 guests, depending on the decor style. 3. Spring Place Event Centre, Port Harcourt Spring Place Event Centre is a place that assures you quality for your money and then some more. Their event halls are quite affordable and they come with a decor plan that is suited to what the customer wants. On their site, they give visual assurance of the quality of their work in form of the top-notch pictures that they feature of the events they organise/ stage in their event halls. They have different event venues which help the customer to pick whichever venue according to preference. The venue is also located in the heart of Lagos Mainland and on the widely known Herbert Macaulay Way, Lagos, making it quite easy to locate. Their event halls are anywhere from ?300,000 to ?1,000,000 naira. 4. Palazzo Dumont, Lagos Some folks prefer their wedding to be a day they spend with the people they love the most. Their family, close friends and the small chops guy. Which is no problem, but where an issue arises is finding that perfect hall for a small audience that does not look shabby or too scanty. Palazzo Dumont is a tasteful choice and their conference hall which can fit about 150 guests, banquet style can be attractively decorated to be aesthetically pleasing. Palazzo Dumont is located in Lekki, Lagos and the cost of the venue in question (excluding decor) is ?250,000 naira only. 5. Unilag Multipurpose Hall, Lagos This hall, as the name implies serves multiple purposes as it is used for all kinds of events. It can contain at least 350 guests and can only be booked at least two weeks beforehand because of how many people want use of the venue for different events. It costs anywhere from ?350,000 to ?400,000 including cleaning and caution charges. The venue also has a parking space for guests. Another added advantage, fairly easy to locate and this could reduce the chances of your guests getting lost on their way to the location. However, this cost does not contain decor or event furniture rentals. The Multipurpose Hall also comes with a platform that can be used to host the couple and their families as it is elevated and can be further decorated to look more ceremonial. 6. Agura Hotel, Abuja Agura?Hotel is located at Abuja and it has several venue options which the couple can choose from. Their packages are very affordable and their smallest venue can contain at least a hundred guests when set up with tables. Their major hall options include the Banquet Hall 1, Banquet Hall 2 and the Mercury Hall and cost ?120,000, ?150,000 and ?180, 000 respectively. However, these charges do not include decor or cleaning charges. 7. All Seasons Hall, Lagos This hall is located at 35, Town Planning Way, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Alimosho, Lagos. The hall, unlike some others on this list, is especially for events. The services they offer highlight this. Also, this hall would be perfect for the couple who know that they would have quite a number of guests at their wedding but have a budget to maintain. The optimal capacity of the hall is 500 while the maximum capacity is 750. The halls go for ?250, 000 on a weekday and on weekends, (Sat-Sun). They offer decor and rental services, security, access to restrooms and changing rooms, air conditioning and generator power supply. The costs of these services are inclusive of the general fee. 8. Excel Oriental Hotel & Suites, Lagos Excel Oriental is true to its name in that the facilities in the hall are put in place to make it more appealing. The banquet hall costs ?250, 000 and admits a capacity of 200 people when arranged banquet style. The fee for the hall does not include cleaning and waste removal charges (?30,000) or the mandatory insurance charge of??5,000. The hotel is at Ikeja, which is the capital of Lagos. 9. Etal Hotels and Halls, Lagos Etal Halls has the Bridal package that is after a girl?s heart. Their services are winning on many counts and their banquet hall can contain 400 people, yes 400 for ?350,000 on a weekday, and ?450, 000 on Saturday. The hall comes with a complimentary changing room and one free night stay for the bride and groom. Also, decoration services and logistical items like coolers and drums can be made available on request with no additional cost. 10. Panda Event Centre (Platinum/Middle Hall), Lagos This hall is at Plot 112, Commercial Avenue, Oyadiran Estate, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos. Its optimal guest capacity is 300 guests, banquet style. However, it can be modelled to fit 350 guests as its highest capacity. The hall offers additional services of which the costs are inclusive of the total fee. They offer rental and decor services, security, access to changing rooms and restrooms, air conditioning, uninterrupted power supply and parking spaces for guests. On weekdays, the hall goes for ?180,000 per event and on the weekends, (Sat-Sun) it costs ?260,000 only. 11. Muffy Hall, Lagos This event hall only recently started their services in early 2016 at Alagomeji Bus stop after they re-purposed what used to Mr Biggs. A one-storey multipurpose hall used for a variety of purposes. The hall services include furniture rental services, power supply, air conditioning and parking space for guests. Also, the general charge includes cleaning and waste disposal charges. The total cost of this venue is anywhere from ?350,000 to ?500,000. 12. YCC Hall St. Dominic?s Catholic Church, Lagos This event hall used for multiple events is quite easy to get so far booked on time and through the proper channels. Just like the Unilag Multipurpose Hall, it has a parking space in front of the building for guests. The main event venue stands upstairs and the ground floor serves as a sort of foyer for guests coming to an event in the location. It also has a high platform where guests can sit and its capacity is anywhere from 100 to 300 people depending on the decor. The event venue in question goes for ?250,000 excluding decor charges. Was this article helpful? Please like, comment and share more interesting content  
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Just Tied The Knot? Here are the best honeymoon destinations in Nigeria

by Isu Mohammed/March 16 11:19 AM Last updated on Nervous about honeymoon destinations? I know how you feel, butterflies in your tummy and you can?t seem to wipe that smile off your face. Your parents have accepted the love of your life as a family and everything is set for the best day of your life. But wait, what comes next? Where will you start this marriage journey? Not to worry, that?s where we come in. There are 1001 romantic destinations in Nigeria and this is a list of a few of our favourite places for the perfect honeymoon getaway. 1. Obudu Mountain Resort Obudu mountain resort also known as Obudu cattle ranch is a picture-perfect paradise for newlyweds. ?No better way to celebrate love than taking long romantic walks and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Young couples can engage in numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, horseback riding and bird watching. At night the couple can gather around lit campfires. Don?t you just love? 2. The whispering Palm Resort Located in Badagry, I cannot think of many getaway locations as romantic as this beach. ?There is so much to do in the absolutely splendid environment creating a sense of balance between fun and rest. Among the attractions are an art gallery, heritage room, swimming pool, miniature golf, paddle boats, a mini zoo and tennis courts. Nothing sounds more romantic than birds chirping as you take a leisure walk on the beach. 3. MicCom Golf Resort The resort is located in Osun state. It is a perfect getaway for newlyweds and couples who want to spend time alone from the hustle of the city getting to know each other intimately. MicCom is the only private golf resort in Nigeria and it boasts of lush green vegetation that is absolutely inviting to lie on with your partner holding hand and fantasizing about the future. 4. Epe Resort and Spa Fellas, announce to your girl or ?wife to be? that you will be spending your honeymoon at a Spa resort and she will love you for life. The idea behind this is ?what better way to celebrate love than being pampered?. You and your spouse can enjoy shared spa treatments, relax by the pools and have romantic dinners at the in-house restaurant. ?The staff is trained to ensure your experience is absolutely memorable. 5. Abraka River Resort The next romantic destination on our list is located in Delta state. Here you can come enjoy the rhythmic flow of the Ethiope River. ?Experience the outdoors with activities such as swimming, boat riding and fishing. You can also relax with your spouse and bask in nature?s beauty. 6. Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort This is one for adventurous souls. It is located in Ekiti state and the resort is designed to make your honeymoon an unforgettable one. ?Explore incredible landscape views, the wonders of rock formation and see where warm springs meet cold springs. 7. Zenababs Half Moon Resort This resort is located in Ijesha, Osun state. Situated in a tranquil environment; why not wake up every morning of your honeymoon to the beautiful view as you enjoy breakfast in bed. The resort features a wildlife park with exotic birds, boating lake and swimming all to make your experience here a magical one. 8. Le Meriden Ibom Golf Resort Tucked away in Akwa Ibom is the Le Meriden Ibom Golf Resort. It is a great place for golf- playing newlyweds to mark the beginning of their life together. Nothing whispers ?romance? more than the palm vegetation that characterises the tourist attraction. The chefs serve the most incredible tasting meals just to put the cherry on your ice cream for a wedding. 9. Oguta Lake Holiday Complex When you think Honeymoon, you think to escape it all and Oguta offers just that. Located in Imo state, the beautiful scenery will make you forget all that wedding stress before you can say ?I do?. Recreational activities include swimming and boat cruising to mention a few. The confluence of Urasi River and Oguta lake offers a metaphoric image of what marriage means and the beauty of it. What better way to kick-off this new part of your life? We would like to wish you a happy prosperous married life. Hope this list was helpful and be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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Best Uyo Attractions For Both Locals and Visitors

by Isu Mohammed/March 15 05:07 PM Last updated on Uyo is the capital city of Akwa Ibom, ?The Land OF Promise?. Uyo has experienced a lot of growth over the last couple of years, both economically and in terms of tourism. Uyo is a seaside city with beautiful scenery and scintillating sites, making it an exciting destination for tourists. The numerous tourist and historical attractions provide never-ending entertainment, whether you are a local or just visiting. Here is a list of the best tourist attractions to visit in Uyo. Ibom Tropicana entertainment centre The Ibom Tropicana Centre, modelled after Sun City in South Africa and Disneyland in Orlando, Florida, USA, is a true entertainment wonder. The centre comprises of a 14-storey building with a 250-room5-star hotel, a galleria with a cinema, a shopping complex, a 10,000 sitting dome and a theme park. These make the Ibom Tropicana a truly all in one tourist attraction. It is one of the most popular tourist centres in all of Nigeria and it is not so difficult to see why. Fun memories are guaranteed to be made here and it is not uncommon to run into a long lost friend. National Museum of colonial history This is one for the lovers of historical artefacts and art. The ethnographic items, artefacts, relics, antiquities and carvings tell the different stories of the ancestral indigenes of Akwa Ibom state. The National Museum houses a beautiful shaded waterfront garden from where boats can be seen swaying in the creek. Ibom Plaza Ibom plaza was one of the earliest buildings to be erected during the modernization of Uyo. Do you know what that means? Shopping here makes you a part of history. ?There a great number of stores in the plaza for whatever your shopping need might be. ?The Ibom plaza also has an open theatre and a doubled rolled water fountain, the only of its kind in Nigeria. Ibom Connection The Ibom connection is located in the heart of Akwa Ibom, in the middle of a beautiful roundabout, opposite the Ibom plaza. The monument stands to represent the unity of the Akwa Ibom people. It is an alluring piece of art decorated with delightfully coloured flowers. The Ibom connection serves as a glimpse of the beautiful architecture and amazing works of arts that tourists are sure to find while in Uyo. Godswill Obot Akpabio stadium The Godswill Obot Akpabio stadium is a magnificent sight to behold. The design and facilities found in the Godswill Akpabio stadium put it on the same pedestal with many international stadiums. The stadium is popularly referred to as "The Champions' nest" as it serves home to the super eagles of Nigeria. When not in use for football-related activities, the stadium hosts various cultural, religious and social events. The 30,000 seater multi-purpose sporting complex was modelled in the image of the Allianz Arena. Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort The Le Meridien Ibom is one of the most beautiful hotels in Nigeria and has been attracting tourists from all around since its commissioning. ?Le Meridien is a great place for a company retreat with its lush vegetation and world-class 18 hole golf course. Renowned for providing the best hospitality money can buy anywhere in Nigeria. Ibeno Beach Our next entry features the 3 S?: ?Sand, Sun and Sea. When it comes to beaches, Ibeno Beach is the king of the lot with the waterfront shore spanning a good 30 kilometres making it the longest beach in West Africa. Come along with sunshades and friends as a good time is guaranteed to be had at Ibeno Beach. The Playground The Playground is home to all things grilled from suya to chicken to Snail. The barbecue aroma that welcomes you on stepping in will have you begging them to take all your money. Visit the Playground with friends for a fun night of music, dance, and food. Unity Park Also known as Cenotaph to the indigenes of Uyo, Unity Park serves as a public park and cenotaph for fallen horses. ?The Unity Park serves as a multipurpose centre playing host to different activities on Saturdays from weddings and football matches to yoga. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day holds here annually. Ekpe Festival The Ekpe festival takes place in December and is a colourful display of the cultural richness of the Uyo people. The Ekpe masquerade is said to be an ancestral spirit that inhabits the jungle. During the festival, the masquerade comes in the form of a leopard. The Ekpe festival is a great way to experience the culture of the Akwa Ibom people. So that?s our list. ?Do you have any comments? Let us know down below.
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Top 7 Wedding Venues in Ibadan

by Samuel Oluwatobi Olatunji/March 15 09:59 AM Last updated on Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State is filled with men and women of high taste and class. This can be seen in full form during a wedding ceremony. You will find men in their?Fila, Buba and Sokoto with women dressed in their elegant?gele and Iro and Buba heading for Owambe?(party); Mostly wedding parties on Saturdays. There are some wedding halls in Ibadan that meet up venue demands and guarantee the best service to make your experience an enjoyable one. These are?some top wedding?venues in Ibadan that will ensure you have a grand wedding party. Ibadan Civic Centre Ibadan civic centre is located on an almost two acres land at Agodi GRA, Idi Ape, Iwo Road, Ibadan. It has?four main halls and is one of the best and most-sought-after wedding halls in Ibadan. It was built by the business tycoon, philanthropist and renowned Ibadan son, Chief Daisi. The halls are an expression of grand taste for your high profile weddings and are well-equipped with the features such as chandeliers, chairs, tables, restroom, changing room, power supply, parking space, and air conditioner and so on. One main hall of the centre is the Agbeke Hall with a capacity of about 700 people. It is situated?on the ground floor and is exquisitely designed for high-class events. Another hall is the Bashorun Hall, which can contain about 300 people in a banquet style. Sound systems, special lightings, projectors, and televisions are also available on request at a separately agreed cost. The parking space can contain about 500 cars, and there are armed and private security to around to ensure your safety. ?The centre has a 250KVA generating set and a 150KVA generator for back-up? as well as??a private transformer, The hall price is about??250,000 per event. One of their major policies is that any termination of bookings attracts 50% of the payment made by the client. In addition, termination of bookings without a month notice attracts no refund. This centre is a number one choice for those looking for grand wedding halls in Ibadan. Genesis Hall, Ibadan This is the major hall of Genesis Suites and Halls, which is located beside Fire Station Bus-stop, Imolete Road, Ibadan. The building was constructed by Mr Kolawole Adeleye (a.k.a Kola Eleja). The parking space can take about 100 cars and is?demarcated and marked for easy parking. There are three huge auto-start generators, which are located away far from the hall to avoid regular noise in the atmosphere. The environment is very clean with well-manicured lawns and is certainly a befitting environment for your wedding party. The Genesis Hall can contain about 1, 200 guests at a time. It has three upper galleries, which provide clear and easy visibility and is well equipped with a service room, functional and neat restrooms and central air-conditioning. This is one of the best wedding venues?in Ibadan and will give your wedding the grandness you want it to have. Casa Lucio Event Centre, Ibadan This event centre is situated at the entrance of Oyo State, at 2, British American Tobacco way, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ibadan. Casa Lucio Event Centre has one of the most exquisite wedding halls in Ibadan. It offers experience mostly desired by individuals with a classic taste. The staff of Casa Lucio event centre includes excellent experts with international experience. It costs about ?1, 125, 000 per event for a hall that is considered one of the topmost wedding venues in Ibadan. Jogor Events Centre, Ibadan This event centre was established in June 2005 with aim of providing exclusive and exciting hospitality services for your various events. It is located at 1, Harvester Close, off Liberty Stadium road in Ibadan. The hall is strategically situated on a landscape in a serene neighbourhood that is well detached from the commotion of the city. It is well-equipped with chairs, tables, restroom, changing room, power supply, parking space, air conditioner, projector, stage, lighting, and security. There are two main halls in Jogor event?centre; Felicia Hall and Hall of Grace. Felicia Hall has the capacity 600 for the banquet style and is priced at about ?420, 000 per event for Monday to Thursday and ?525, 000 per event for Friday ? Sunday ?525, 000. The Hall of Grace has the capacity of 1200 for banquet style and the price is ?720, 000 per event from Monday ? Thursday, and ?882, 000 per event from Friday ? Sunday. Divine Grace Event Centre, Ibadan Divine Grace event centre, an exquisite multi-purpose event?centre is situated along New Ife Express Road, Ibadan. It is about 300m away from Nigerian Breweries?and has different halls for all types of events. The halls are Olawale-Ayinke Hall, AdewumHall and Adesola Hall. They have capacities of 1500 people, 100 people, and 200 people respectively. The parking space is large enough for up to two or three events on the same day. Facilities available include a standby generator, an audio and video system, a live band equipment and complete sound system alongside in-house decorators. Centre E99 Centre E99 has some of the grandest wedding halls in Ibadan. It is located at 2, Ooni Avenue, Oluyole Industrial Estate, Oluyole, Ibadan. The centre was constructed with the creative use of granite and marble and contains modern facilities for your events. Centre E99 has?two well air-conditioned halls with seats. The halls are named ?Atole Hall (with a capacity of 1, 200) and Mabel Hall (with a capacity of 600). It also?has a spacious parking area within the premises as well as a standby generator. The ambience of the environment makes it one of the top wedding venues?in Ibadan. Victoria Banquet Hall Victoria Banquet Hall is a grand 1,000-sitter banquet hall situated at 3, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade Street, Ibadan. It also has two smaller halls sitting 200 and 100 people respectively. The grand hall at Victoria Banquet costs ?400, 000 per event, while the smaller halls cost ?200, 000 and ?150, 000 respectively. It has beautifully tiled floors and Starwood ceiling light fixtures. Your wedding party will turn out to be one of a kind if you use any of these halls.
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10 Exciting Places to Visit In Kaduna

by Isu Mohammed/March 14 01:35 PM Last updated on Kaduna is one of the most popular cities in Northern Nigeria and attracts a decent amount of tourists. On the first visit to Kaduna, the city?s nickname, 'The Crocodile city', is not far-fetched. The city, decorated with crocodile symbols and created in 1967, makes it one of the oldest states with a population of over 6 million people. ?This a list of fun, hang out spots in Kaduna. 1. Kamuku National Park https://hotels.ng/guides/enjoy-the-rarest-of-nature-at-kamuku-national-park/ This park contains extensive land covered with guinea savanna vegetation. It is one of the few plots of guinea savanna left in all of Africa. It is a great place to go and relax and spend some time identifying the rare species of trees that can be found here. You can also run into some wide life here. 2. Matsiriga Waterfalls https://hotels.ng/guides/enjoy-the-breathtaking-view-from-matsiriga-waterfalls/ At a height of 30 metres, the Matsiriga waterfall is a sight to behold. The chilly ambience is inviting to visiting tourists and natives alike. Therefore It is a great recreational centre to come enjoy nature?s wonder and splash around. 3. Kajuru Castle https://hotels.ng/guides/get-the-best-of-luxury-at-kajuru-castle/ This is one of Kaduna?s best-kept secrets and is sometimes even considered a myth. Don?t be wary because it's a real place, Kajuru is a European-style castle sitting on a rock hidden in Kajuru local Government, South-east of Kaduna. Yes, House on the rock and it covers about 400 square metres. It was built in 1976 and is a ?popular attraction among adventurous tourist. Tourists try to find their way to the palace by climbing the hills around it, a truly exciting experience. Book Kajuru castle 4. Kagoro Hill https://hotels.ng/guides/mountain-climbing-is-the-most-desirable-at-kangoro-hill/ Kagoro hill is located in the town of Kagoro in Southern Kaduna. It raises a significant height above sea level and makes the area around it to be temperate like the weather in Jos, Plateau State. It is a suitable hangout spot to relax and hold a picnic because of the quietness and privacy of the hills. 5. The Ancient Nok Settlement https://hotels.ng/guides/get-the-best-of-history-at-the-ancient-nok-settlement/ The Nok settlement is a fascinating wonder of the ingenious nature of the Nok people. From the rock shelters to the Nok terracotta sprinkled around, everything here is designed to blow your mind away. Come with a camera because the will a lot of things to capture. 6. Kaduna national museum and monument https://hotels.ng/guides/see-marvelous-artifacts-that-can-only-be-found-at-kaduna-national-museum-and-monument/ The splendid edifice that is the Kaduna National Museum is crawling with marvellous artefacts from the entire country. It is must visit for lovers of archaeological and ethnographic artefacts. Some of the Nok figurines found here date back over 2000 years and are as old as Christmas itself. If that doesn?t have you in awe, then I don?t know again. 7. Fifth Chukker Polo Resort https://hotels.ng/guides/enjoy-the-exotic-sport-of-polo-at-fifth-chukker-polo-resort/ The Fifth chukker polo resort comprises of ?130 hectares of land covered in vegetative splendour. ?It blends seamlessly with its natural surrounding and creates a gentle feeling of peace as you walk around the facility. The resort offers world-class sporting entertainment and is one of the best places in the country to enjoy the exotic sport of polo. 8. Kofar Gamji Park https://hotels.ng/guides/kofar-gamji-park-offers-a-view-of-nature-at-its-peak/ The Gamji park has graduated from a simple garden to a full-blown tourist attraction and recreational centre. Kofar Gamji covers?an area of 7000 metres and is decorated with architectural designs and sculptures as well as the magnificent Hall. There is sparse vegetation of mangrove and orchard trees. The dotted islands formed by River Kaduna that runs through the park as well as assorted flowers emphasize its beauty. We think these are the most exciting hangouts in Kaduna. Disagree with our list? Tell us in the comments. Book a Hotel in Kaduna on hotels.ng for all the best deals. 9. Little Italy https://hotels.ng/guides/enjoy-the-best-of-nigerian-meals-at-little-italy/ Little Italy is located at 2, Sultan Road, Kaduna North, Kaduna. It serves superb Pizza, excellent Lasagna and tasty local Nigerian dishes. You get to order a delicious starter followed by the best Italian food in Northern Nigeria, superb fish dishes are also available. It has an extensive beautiful landscaped gardens with fishponds, wild geese, animals with thatched rondavels, tables and chairs in the shade of exotic trees and plants. It is a great place to relax and chill out, and the kids can be taken there for a day out as well. 10. Barcode Lounge https://hotels.ng/guides/get-the-best-club-and-lounge-experience-when-you-visit-the-barcode-lounge/ Barcode Lounge is located at Plot B4 Uganda Street, Barnawa, Kaduna. It is Nigeria's premier destination for lunch, happy hour, dinner and late-night relaxation. Barcode provides comfort built on a high-end backdrop of marble, open-air and illumination. A no cover/no dress code policy promotes a relaxing vibe in a modern setting. The music format is generally top 40/pop-house/popular hip-hop/Naija latest Jamz/old skool. Barcode Lounge offers the best of Nigeria sports bars and Nigeria lounges rolled into a sophisticated place suitable for a night out with the well respected big girls/guys or a date with that special someone. Amenities include Full Menu, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Valet, Bottle Service, Kitchen until midnight.
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Oldest Buildings in Nigeria

by David/March 14 12:46 PM Last updated on If you are looking for local tourism destinations with a lot of interesting history behind them, you might be intrigued to find out just how much Nigeria can offer without hurting your wallet. If you are feeling adventurous and you are up for learning a thing or two about Nigeria?s history, here are a few of the oldest buildings in Nigeria for you to visit. Jaekel House, Lagos Located inside the Ebute-Metta premises of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, Jaekel House is a restored colonial mansion. It now serves as a railway museum and photo gallery of the NRC's colonial era. Smack dab in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Lagos, it can be quite a surprise to go into the premises and suddenly become far removed from the noise and people ? such as the sheer size of the grounds. Named after Francis Jaekel, a former Superintendent of the NRC, it was originally built in 1898. This makes it 119 years old and therefore is certainly one of the oldest buildings in Nigeria still standing! Its age does not show on it though, due to the recent restoration carried out on it. Fancy a visit to this beautiful building to take a rail journey into Nigeria?s past?Located at the Railway Compound, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, and opens throughout the week. The first European storey building in Nigeria Yes, that one. This famous white one-storey building in Badagry was constructed by the Rev. Henry Townsend of the Anglican Church Mission Society (CMS) in 1845. Located on the Badagry Marina, this historic structure served as a Vicarage for Saint Thomas Anglican Church, Badagry. Later on, the Anglican Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther famously lived here while translating the Bible?from English to Yoruba. Still standing completely intact after 171 years, this building has huge historical significance in the history of the slave trade and colonialism. It is also very close to the excellent recreational amenities of Badagry. These include several water resorts, hotels, beaches and hangout spots. If you are brave enough, you can even venture into the house, which generates hundreds of ghost stories from tourists and visitors every year. The cenotaph of Taiwo Olowo, Lagos Daniel Conrad Taiwo arrived in Lagos as an indentured servant in 1848. By the time he died in 1901 at the age of 120, he had amassed so much wealth that he earned the nickname?Taiwo Olowo (Taiwo the Rich Man). In the course of a successful (if somewhat amoral) career trading in everything from slaves to weapons, Taiwo Olowo also became very powerful in the political landscape of Lagos. He single-handedly controlled all trade routes and markets in Isheri. He married 16 wives and his descendants currently number in the hundreds. In 1905, the Brazilian-returnee master builder Senhor Jorge DaCosta constructed the impressive monument?commemorating his life. It features plaques forged from hundreds of melted copper pennies in line with Taiwo Olowo?s status. Just across the street from the cenotaph is his family house, ?Iga Taiwo Olowo (Palace of Taiwo the Rich Man).?It is still owned and inhabited by his descendants. If you are lucky, you may even get to meet one of them and enjoy a nice chat about the Legend of Taiwo Olowo. Mapo Hall, Ibadan It may not look like it, but this too is one of the oldest buildings in Nigeria. Built?in 1929, Mapo Hall has witnessed 87?years of Nigerian history from its vantage point at Mapo Hill summit, the highest point in the city of Ibadan. Designed by the British Engineer Robert Taffy Jones, this sprawling edifice is one of the most impressive structures in Ibadan, towering over the?metropolis with its huge stone pillars and Victorian architecture. Mapo Hall was originally constructed for administrative purposes and public hearings. Nowadays, especially since its renovation in 2006, it is as a conference location and tourist destination, with its own in-house mini-museum and an impressive hallway portrait display of all past and present Olubadan of Ibadan. St. George?s Hall, Lagos This charming building located on Broad Street was constructed in 1907. It houses St. George?s Lodge No. 3065 of the global Freemason Order. Prior to its construction, Sir Walter Egerton, then Governor of the Colony and Protectorate of Southern Nigeria granted a 99-year lease for the plot of land, free from taxes and rates. Over the years, some of the most famous names in Nigeria?s history have been frequent visitors to this building. These include Sir Adeyemo Alakija, Nat Sowande Cole, Chief Oludare Holloway and Willoughby Osbourne. The building features typically elaborate and ornate Victorian design and finishing.If you would like to take a tour of this historic building, it is open on Sundays between 11:00 and 17:00. Lugard Footbridge, Kaduna The Lugard Footbridge a 113-year-old pedestrian bridge currently located in the General Hassan Park, Kaduna. Originally built in Zungeru, present-day Niger State by Frederick Lugard?in 1904. At the time, Zungeru was the capital of the Northern Protectorate of Nigeria. Following the 1914 amalgamation, the bridge moved to Gamji Gate, Kaduna and reconstructed. Since 1956, the bridge has been classified as a historic national monument. Kajuru Castle, Kaduna While the other buildings on this list are very old, Kajuru Castle is not since It was built by an unnamed German expatriate in 1978 and is only 39 years old. Yet It makes this list by virtue of its unusual German-style architecture and backstory because it's not every day you see a full-sized German castle in Kaduna! If you would like to explore Kajuru Castle, you have to rent out the entire building. This reportedly costs between N240,000 and N350,000 a day. Oba of Benin Royal Palace, Benin [caption id="attachment_239" align="aligncenter" width="765"] Source: NIGERIA360[/caption] Visitors to the Oba's palace are forbidden from taking pictures. Because of this, it is notoriously difficult to get a picture of this historic building. While originally built by Oba Ewedo (1255AD - 1280AD) as the symbol of the mighty Bini Empire for 6 centuries, Oba Eweka II (1914 - 1932) rebuilt it following its destruction due to the British punitive expedition of 1897. It still stands as one of the oldest buildings in Nigeria and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Kings College, Lagos Kings College, built in 1909 by the British colonial administration in Lagos. Built at the cost of ?10,001 and is one of the oldest buildings in Nigeria. ?The building was originally created due to the need to prepare male students for the Matriculation exams of the University of London. Today, almost 120 years later, Kings college still stands at its original location on Catholic Mission Street, Lagos Island. Lugard Hall, Kaduna Lugard Hall, the seat of the Kaduna State House of Assembly was built in 1914. Therefore, it is 103 years old. Named after Frederick Lugard and originally served as the seat of legislative power of the Northern Protectorate. The building style is an imitation of the British House of Commons and House of Lords in Westminster, London.  
Travel Ideas

10 Amazing Art Galleries In Lagos You Have To See

by Anjola/March 03 11:30 AM Last updated on 1.?Nike Art Gallery Owned by popular Nigerian artist, Nike Davies Okundaye, the Nike art gallery is located at 2, Elegushi Rd, Ikate 2nd Round-about, Epe Expressway, Lagos and is one of the top art galleries in Lagos. The four-storey building is filled with over 8,000 works from foreign and traditional Nigerian artists. Arguably one of the largest in West Africa, the works in the gallery is priced anywhere from N20,000 to N8,000,000. Don?t bother taking any special cameras as personal photography is highly prohibited in order to safeguard the originality of artists artworks. So it?s for your eyes only! Be sure to visit the ?tie and die? section before leaving. There?s also a small caf? in the gallery where you can get nice drinks. You can book cultural tours to some Yoruba towns at the gallery too. Opening hours The gallery occasionally holds jazz festivals and open gallery nights and opens daily from 10:00 am to 6 pm. 2.?Terra Kulture Terra Kulture was established in 2004 by respected entrepreneur and art connoisseur, Bolanle Austen-Peters to promote the richness and diversity of Nigerian Languages, Arts and Culture. It has become a top choice for those who seek recreational immersion in definitive Nigerian cultural experience. Located in the heart of Victoria Island?s buzzing business district, Terra Kulture is a cultural, arts and entertainment centre that attracts a diverse crowd from?far and wide. This crowd includes those who come to experience the beauty and magnificence of culture in its fullness. The building comprises an art gallery, food lounge, a theatre and an art shop where books and African themed items are sold. The art gallery has refreshing artworks that are quite uplifting and educational. They also have an exquisite food lounge that provides delicious delicacies including beverages, soft and alcoholic drinks, appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. Did I mention that their special Jollof rice, dodo (fried plantain) and the fish combo is the bomb? Be sure to try it. The building?s theatre holds occasional stage plays and exhibitions. You are guaranteed a wholesome experience when you visit. Opening hours Mondays to Thursdays - 9:30 am-10:00pm Fridays and Saturdays-9:30 am-12:00am Sundays-12:00pm-12:00am 3. Omenka art gallery Located at 24, Modupe Alakija Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos, Omenka gallery reflects the fine architecture and art evident in everyday structures. This leading art gallery in Nigeria has a fine selection of established and emerging contemporary Nigerian and International artists working with diverse artistic media.?The gallery is located within the home of celebrated Nigerian artist, Ben Enwonwu which is not much of a surprise as the gallery itself is owned the legend?s son ?Oliver Enwowu. You can be sure to find lots of artworks from one of the fathers of arts in Nigeria and this adds to the historical and cultural significance of the gallery. It consists of an exhibition area- a large space, housing one of the finest collections of the artist?s works and an outdoor lounge which oversees calm waters. Drinks are also served in the lounge at average prices. Omenka is the entire package continues to serve up a treat every time you visit. It?s advisable to enjoy this place with your partner as the gallery is a relatively small one. Opening hours Mondays to Fridays ?10:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturdays-10:00am-4:00pm Sundays-Closed 4. Red door gallery Located at 51 Bishop Oluwole St, Lagos, Red door gallery was founded based on the belief that art is the ultimate form of expression of man?s deepest thoughts and that displayed artworks strive to provide insight into the mind of its creators. The gallery is painted white and it has a significantly marked red door which might be one of the reasons it?s called Red Door gallery. Beyond the door lies an overflow of originality and creativity that?s bound to stimulate you aesthetically. With one of the largest private art gallery spaces in Nigeria, you?re bound to be mesmerized. ?Red Door Gallery is a place for art collectors, consultants, and connoisseurs. If you don?t fall into any of the above, you?re still welcome! There are kind curators to help you out. Opening hours 10:00 am to 6:00 pm 5. Signature beyond art gallery The signature art gallery was established in 1992 to cater for the preservation and promotion of African art. Since then, they have gradually expanded the chain to include furniture, accessories, architectural and interior designs. However, the gallery still remains a goldmine for exceptional works of art, art installations, and sculpture. It is located at 107, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. The gallery plays host to private shows and exhibitions which promote both young and established artists. Opening hours The gallery opens from 9am-7pm 6. Art Twenty One This is a 600 sqm space and platform dedicated to contemporary art in Lagos, Nigeria. Located at 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Kuramo Waters, Victoria Island, within the upscale of Eko Hotel and Suites, Art twenty-one is one of Lagos? newest art galleries. Currently managed by Caline Chagoury, ?Art Twenty One aims at contributing to and solidify the growing art scene in Lagos, as well as position the city as a major force in the international art world. With an extraordinary and unique set up in Lagos, space is designed to make art accessible to an audience who will be able to engage with a rich and diverse range of contemporary art, cultural practice, and educational art programs. They also host special art exhibitions occasionally. Opening hours Mondays- By appointment only Tuesdays to Fridays-10 am to 6 pm Saturdays-11 am to 7 pm 7. Nimbus Gallery Nimbus?is nestled above the Bogobiri Art House and boasts of an exclusive terrace for weekly art exhibitions. One of the best art galleries in Nigeria, It is a great place to explore modern art while enjoying a cold drink in the unusual ambience of the atmosphere. The entire building comprises an art gallery, outdoor restaurant and a live music stage which attracts talented artists and musicians from all over the world. The gallery is known to have hosted many prominent people including; ?Asa, Dbanj, Tony Allen, Jeremy Vine, Richard Quest, Damon Albarn, Ben Osawe, Tola Wewe, to name a few. Nimbus is located at 9, Maitama Sule Street off Awolowo Road, South-West Ikoyi, Lagos. Opening hours From 9 am to 5 pm. 8. Rele Located at Lagos Island, Rele Gallery?is in the heart of some of Nigeria?s prominent art houses including the National Museum. The sophistication and youthful style of this gallery ensures that it is ever buzzing with young and vibrant art lovers. Rele provides an extraordinary, unconventional, contemporary art space with first-rate African art for public consumption. The art on display is constantly helping to redefine art and push forward existing boundaries. The Rele experience is one not so quickly forgotten so be sure to plan a visit to experience it firsthand! Opening hours Mondays to Firdays-11:00am-7:00pm Saturdays-12:00pm to 6:00pm Sundays-2:00pm to 6:00pm 9. Osh Gallery Established in 2013, Osh is a privately owned art gallery in Lagos located at Herbert Macauley road, Yaba. If you're an art enthusiast who has adrenalin rush at the thought of having topical discussions on art, Osh is calling you. Opening hours Mondays: 8 am to 6 pm Tuesdays - Friday: 9 am to 7 pm 10. Mydrim Gallery Mydrim Gallery was established in Lagos, Nigeria in 1992. The gallery located at 74B Norman Williams Street Ikoyi, just off the busy Awolowo Road, seeks to focus on the wealth, beauty and message through the displayed works. Art collectors have developed a discerning eye for high-quality works of art which can be found here and as such a lot of people come to feed their eyes and imagination. The gallery continues to promote and showcase the expression of fresh talents in every artwork. Opening hours Monday- Friday: 9am to ?5pm Saturdays: 10am to 5pm