6 Notable Historic Buildings in Nigeria

Nigeria is a blessed country rich in culture and diversity. Every region in Nigeria has its peculiarity and unique cultural heritage.

There are numerous historic buildings in Nigeria which form part of our heritage as a people. In this article, Blessing Enenaite will be revealing six of such buildings which are now favourite tourist destinations you should consider visiting if you are thinking of somewhere interesting to visit in Nigeria.

1. Ancient Kano City Walls

The ancient walls of Kano were constructed as a defence to protect its occupants against external attack. And was built in the 11th century (1095AD). The 3rd Emir of Kano, Sakri Gijimasu, laid its foundation. Records however have it that the walls were completed in the 14th century.

2.First Storey Building in Nigeria, Badagry

The first storey building in Nigeria is part of the history of the people. It was said to have been constructed by missionaries living in Badagry, Lagos. Henry Townsend, a famous missionary, laid the foundations of the building in 1842. The building work was completed in 1845, and it was once used by the Methodist Church as a primary school.

The first African C.M.S (Church Missionary Society) bishop, Samuel Ajayi Crowther, was an occupant of the building. Crowther is notable for being the first man to translate the Bible from English to Yoruba.

3.Gobirau Minaret, Katsina

This historic monument is about 7 centuries old. The Gobirau Minaret is at the centre of Katsina State. According to historic accounts, it was built during the reign of the first Muslim king of Katsina, Sarkin Muhammadu Korau (1348-1408 AD). The building which is 50ft tall was originally used to call Muslims for prayers. However, its use has been shifted from that original purpose.

4.Mary Slessor House, Calabar

The Mary Slessor House was named after the iconic Scottish missionary, Mary Mitchell Slessor, who is notable for stopping the killing of twins in Calabar.

The historic building was constructed in the 19th century in Ekenge, Calabar. Rather than live among her colleagues in the missionary quarters,Slessor chose to live among the Calabar people. Hence, the building is a remembrance and proof of her selfless service to humanity.

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5.Oba of Benin Palace, Edo

In 1999, the Oba of Benin Palace in Edo State was listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. It was originally constructed around the 13th century by Oba Ewedo of Benin and was rebuilt by his successor, Oba Eweka II in the 20th century. The Oba of Benin is one of the most revered traditional rulers in Nigeria.

6.First Presbyterian Church, Calabar

Calabar has some historic buildings because it was a settlement for foreigners’ centuries ago. Colonialists and missionaries resided in the town where they laid their footprints.

The first Presbyterian Church in Nigeria was founded by Rev. Hope Masterson Waddell in 1846. Hence, the church still stands as one of the historic buildings in Nigeria.