Moving to Abuja

Abuja lies in the very heart of Nigeria, within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Centrally located, it was a planned city strategically placed to unify an impressively diverse population. Today, expats moving to Abuja will find a welcoming metropolis buzzing with activity.

Living in Abuja as an expat

With a cost of living much lower than Lagos, and with just as much to offer, Abuja is the natural choice for many expats who relocate to the Giant of Africa. For some, the move may be daunting, given negative media coverage and the warnings of crime and conflict issued by various foreign governmental authorities. Of course, safety and security issues are not to be taken lightly, but most expats agree that by taking the usual precautions, they feel just as safe in Abuja as in any other major city.

As the country’s capital, Abuja boasts a cosmopolitan lifestyle. While English is the official language, Abuja is home to over 200 ethnic groups, and several key languages, including Ibo, Yoruba and Hausa, are spoken.

As with ethnicity and language, religion is just as significant; about half the population is Muslim and 40 percent is Christian. The National Mosque stands as an iconic landmark in Abuja against the backdrop of Aso Rock, a key monolithic geological feature defining the city’s landscape, along with Zuma Rock.

Unfortunately, the wealth and luxury arguably act as a glossy veneer to the city’s problems. The wealth disparity that permeates much of the country is far from absent here, the electricity supply is inconsistent and unreliable, and navigating the roads through unpredictable traffic can be intimidating and frustrating. To add to these issues, despite well-trained medical professionals, healthcare in many hospitals is not always up to standards.

An open mind will help you adjust and come to terms with the local culture. Not blinded by the negatives, new arrivals in Abuja can see a contemporary city with sweeping boulevards, clover-style interchanges and modern, skyward-climbing buildings. Despite being a rapidly growing city, greenery and tree-lined streets have not disappeared from Abuja’s neighbourhoods.

Cost of living in Abuja

Given Nigeria’s fluctuating economy, the cost of living in Abuja has become more affordable in recent years. While the city remains expensive for many locals, expats earning in foreign currencies may find it relatively manageable compared to other major global destinations.

Rental prices in Abuja often far exceed the average Nigerian professional’s wages, but those working for international companies and organisations typically live in expat enclaves and secure gated complexes. Impressive mansions with swimming pools, electric gates, and sometimes armed guards are often arranged for expats well before their arrival.

Expat life in Abuja can feel surprisingly luxurious, with a strong sense of community among foreigners. The city offers a variety of good shops, bars, cinemas, and nightclubs – ideal for those looking to enjoy an active social life.

Maitama and Wuse 2 are among the more affluent areas of the city, with Millennium Park nearby, providing a scenic escape where residents can enjoy fresh air and observe butterflies and tropical birds in a lush setting.

Families and children in Abuja

Along with Lagos, Abuja is home to one of the country’s highest concentrations of international schools. Though pricey, these institutions ensure that expat children continue to receive a high standard of education while in Nigeria.

Abuja is only a hop, skip and a jump away from some of the more naturally splendid areas of the country, such as Gurara Waterfalls, which is perfect for a family day out. Closer still, Jabi Boat Club is a must for parents, offering exclusive dining experiences as well as jet ski rides on Jabi Lake, while Mpape has also gained recognition as a tourist hotspot with its abandoned quarry.

Climate in Abuja

Abuja experiences what is known as a tropical wet and dry climate, with a humid rainy season distinct from its dry season. Along with the tropical temperatures, expats report that the people are equally warm and friendly.

It's important to maintain some perspective and to realise that expat life in Nigeria’s capital can be challenging and one of extreme and unbalanced privilege. Given all the pros and cons of moving to Abuja, with an open mind, it’s possible to work hard and live comfortably in this West African capital.