Things to do in Port Harcourt this weekend

Port Harcourt, popularly called ‘Pitakwa’ and the ‘Garden City’ of Nigeria is the capital of Rivers State which was created in 1976. It lies along the Bonny River and is located in the Niger Delta region.  According to the 2006 census, Port Harcourt urban has a population of 1,382,592. Port Harcourt is also known as […]

Port Harcourt, popularly called ‘Pitakwa’ and the ‘Garden City’ of Nigeria is the capital of Rivers State which was created in 1976. It lies along the Bonny River and is located in the Niger Delta region.  According to the 2006 census, Port Harcourt urban has a population of 1,382,592. Port Harcourt is also known as the oil city as it plays host to several multinational oil companies. The city also has a high concentration of foreigners who work in various multinational companies. The city has a beautiful night life where residents enjoy themselves.

Port Harcourt Zoo
One notable place of interest for a visitor to Port Harcourt is the Port Harcourt Zoo. It is located in the popular Trans Amadi Industrial Layout and was constructed by the late Milford Okilo who was the first civilian governor of the state. It sits on a landmass of about two hectares.  The zoo has different species of wildlife ranging from lions, pythons, tigers and giraffes. Other animals in the zoo include monkeys, donkeys, antelopes, horses and crocodiles. There are also a variety of birds like ostriches, doves and ducks. The zoo has become a tourist attraction of sorts as visitors, especially families, visit it during the holidays and festive periods to unwind and enjoy themselves.

Isaac Boro Park
It is a relaxation park named after an Ijaw hero, Isaac Adaka Boro, who fought for the total emancipation of the Ijaw nation. The park located on Mile One, in the Diobu axis of Port Harcourt, is a meeting place for social, religious and political events. Notable religious leaders have used the park to hold several religious crusades and programmes. The park has also hosted political rallies as well as served as venue for various trade fairs.

Adoki Amasiemeka Stadium
Named after a legendary footballer, Adoki Amasiemeka, the 60,000 capacity stadium was built by former governor Rotimi Amaechi. The stadium which has hosted several local and international tournaments has also played host to political rallies. The stadium located at Igwurita Ali, along Airport Road, has various sporting facilities that guests can use.

Port Harcourt Beach
The beach is located in the old Port Harcourt township. The beach is a rendezvous for all forms of social gatherings. The beach has several compartments such as eatery, relaxation point, dancing and music hall. The beach boat Cruz and horse ride as well as its ‘Owugiri’ dance band will leave everlasting memories in a first time visitor. A visitor can also relish in the rich sea food served at the beach.

Presidential Hotel
The hotel was constructed in the 1980s by late Dr. Michael Okpara, former premier of old Eastern Region. The hotel is the oldest five star hotel in Rivers State and is located in GRA Phase 2. When Bayelsa State was carved out of Rivers the dividends from the hotel were shared between the two states. The hotel is managed by expatriates. Visitors have the choice of relishing the hotel’s full course meals which comprises African and continental dishes.

Roasted plantain and fish
It is said that if you haven’t eaten roasted plantain, popularly called ‘bole,’ with fish, then you haven’t visited Port Harcourt. All around the city there are various spots where this is sold. One of the most popular spots is Artillery Junction off Aba Road.

Novotel Hotel
This five star hotel is one of the private investments owned and managed by French nationals.  The hotel located at the popular Air Force junction, is known for its uniqueness and beautiful serene environment. The hotel is home to expatriate oil and gas workers and prominent personalities who visit Port Harcourt on a daily basis. Its strategic location and closeness to two military establishments is part of the reason why it attracts a lot patronage. Various African and continental dishes are served in hotel.