Things to do if you’re in Sokoto this weekend

Sokoto, popularly called the seat of the Caliphate is known for its tranquility.  The city is a safe haven for many who cherish spending their leisure time in a comforting and serene environment. The ancient city boosts of not just many historical sites but a number of contemporary relaxation spots for adults and children. The […]

Sokoto, popularly called the seat of the Caliphate is known for its tranquility.  The city is a safe haven for many who cherish spending their leisure time in a comforting and serene environment.
The ancient city boosts of not just many historical sites but a number of contemporary relaxation spots for adults and children.

The Sultan Palace
It is the official residence of the Sultan of Sokoto, near the Sultan Bello Juma’at Mosque. The palace was renovated during the reign of the 18th Sultan, Alhaji Ibrahim Dasuki. The Sultan receives visitors at the palace which has attracted tourists that relish in the architecture. It holds many relics of past sultans and culture of the people.

Eating out
Some popular restaurant and fast food outlets dotting the city include Mr Biggs and Shanghai restaurant both along Maiduguri road, MacDonald’s  along Old Airport road, Da’am restaurant opposite city campus and Saa Mai Sa’a by the main gate of Giginya  Stadium.
Also, there are many kilishi spots dotting major streets in Sokoto but the most popular among them is at Shagalinku along Sultan Abubakar road close to the state library.
Kilishi is a very popular snack. It is made of beef turned into sheets after it is spiced and dried. It can be preserved for months.
Similarly, there are many Fura da Nono joints to cater for the numerous consumers of the product who troop to the joints to have their fill. It is a diet made from millet which is mixed with cow milk to give a pleasant taste.

Giginya Memorial Stadium
The Giginya Memorial Stadium is where most major sporting activities take place. It was named after the famous Giginya tree where the great Sokoto battle against the colonialists was fought. The stadium is also near the Kangiwa race course named in memory of late civilian governor of the state, Alhaji Shehu Kangiwa who died when he fell off his horse during a polo match in Kaduna.

Happy Island
An amusement park and recreational centre situated along Yar Abba-Arkilla road, 4 kilometres off the popular Kalambaina road.
It is described as an “A” class by many in terms relaxing and having fun for both adults and children.
Among fascinating features at this “island” are a water park, swimming pool, theatre, eatery and a host of other exciting sections.

Sokoto Central Market
This is the first of its kind in West Africa. The market has everything a market needs in terms of security, space, adequate infrastructure and control. It was commissioned by the first civilian president of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Shagari and has its main gate named after him.
With adequate parking space for vehicles and a pedestrian bridge, the market is one of the major attractions to visitors in Sokoto.

Driving Around Town
Driving around Sokoto, a visitor may not fail to notice the many roundabouts as well as good road networks with functional street lights.
A visitor would not also miss the shopping malls that are springing up at strategic locations in the metropolis.
Also, driving around town, a visitor will notice gates within and surrounding the city. There are eight city gates popular among them are Kofar Taramniya gate directly facing the Sultan palace, Kofar Marke, Kofar Kware, Kofar Aliyu Jedo and Kofar Rini.
Each of these gates has a history attached to its erection.

Army Barracks Golf Course
The Golf course offers relaxation for golfers both military and civilians who are enthusiasts of the game.  It is situated within the 1 Brigade Army Barracks along Gusau road.

Relaxation Garden
The Garden is situated along Gado Nasko road which leads to the Government House, Sokoto.
It offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and a quiet place for someone who wants a place for deep thinking.
The facility is unique for recreation  being tucked in an area away from the noisy part of the state capital.