A few things to do if you’re in Kaduna this weekend

Kaduna, capital of Kaduna State, is known for many things, with pleasant weather being one of them. Over the decades, it has lost some of its charm to neighbouring Abuja, which has wooed former residents with the promise of bigger opportunities. However, it remains one of the most interesting cities in Nigeria. First-time visitors often […]

Kaduna, capital of Kaduna State, is known for many things, with pleasant weather being one of them. Over the decades, it has lost some of its charm to neighbouring Abuja, which has wooed former residents with the promise of bigger opportunities. However, it remains one of the most interesting cities in Nigeria. First-time visitors often wonder about places to visit or cool things to do, but worry no more. The following list, while not exhaustive, highlights a number of things you, your family and friends can get up to when visiting the ‘Centre of Learning’, as the state’s slogan goes.

Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club
Founded in 2001, and with over four hundred thoroughbred polo ponies stabled, Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club is the perfect place for a nice, lazy afternoon or a weekend of fun. Located in Maraban Jos, a few kilometres from Kaduna city, it’s relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere makes it perfect for family picnics, horse-riding adventures and more.
The kitchen is run by a seasoned chef, so the food is always delightful. The unique architecture of the villas, chalets and huts makes them instantly welcoming, thanks also to friendly staff. Available, are bicycles, tricycles and quad bikes for guests to traverse the three thousand-hectare resort.
Visit FifthChukker.com for more details.

Eating Out
Kaduna boasts a number of good restaurants, as well as varieties of cuisine. Widely agreed to be the best is Byblos Restaurant, located at Abakpa on Waziri Ibrahim Crescent, with a wide selection of delicious Lebanese dishes, as well as Nigerian regulars like Jollof or fried rice. Midway Cafe, formerly French Cafe, also offers similar fare, but a bit more limited in scope, and is located on Ali Akilu Road, near SCOA.
For Chinese food enthusiasts, the go-to place has to be Hotel Seventeen’s restaurant, where the chef, simply called Ayo, whips up lip-smacking sauces, rice, noodles and stir-fry delights. It is located on Golf Course Road. Another place to find Chinese food is Big Treat, on Isa Kaita Road, where they operate more on a fast-food model.
If Nigerian food is more up your speed, then you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s a fantastic pounded yam joint on Yoruba Road, off Ahmadu Bello Way in the city, while nearby Gwandu Road offers Amala, Jollof Rice and all the usual dishes you would expect to find there at low prices.
If Suya is your thing, then the best place to grab some sticks is the spot located within the Kaduna Golf Club, run by a young man simply called Abba. Using the freshest beef and chicken, garnished with vegetables of your choice, their spice recipe needs to be tasted to be believed.

Kajuru Castle
Kajuru Castle was built between 1985 to 1989 in early medieval style at Kajuru village in Kaduna State, by Gerhard Huebner, described on the establishment’s Facebook page as “eccentric”. It strikingly sits atop a medium-height hill, and It boasts a guest tower of 4 rooms, layfully tagged ‘dungeons’, a central building with authentic details like knights’ armour, a dragon tower and turrets.
There’s also a breath-taking swimming pool with awe-inspiring views straight out of Game of Thrones. For hot days and evenings, there’s a BBQ spot offering a variety of delicacies. And during Harmattan, a bona fide Finnish sauna ensures warm pleasures. The castle is said to operate on exclusive basis, and only the complete facility can be rented out, with the capacity to lodge 12 in full comfort.
Located in Kaduna South, it is about 59 kilometres away from the city, according to Google Maps. More info on the Kajuru Castle page on Facebook and KajuruCastle.com.

Driving around town
Kaduna is home to many monuments, and a visitor going around town can cover most of them, with the drive being a treat in itself. From Lugard Hall and it’s spectacular colonial era architecture, to the Race Course at Murtala Square (which also houses the famous Kaduna Polo Club), as well as Arewa House or the Sultan Bello Mosque in Ungwan Sarki. River Kaduna, visible from about three major bridges, is also charming in the evening. Traffic is moderate – and sometimes even sparse during weekends – with the exception of days when major events are taking place.