Suleja is a town in Niger State on the northern edge of the Federal Capital Territory. Until 1976 it was itself called Abuja, the seat of the Abuja emirate; when the new federal capital took that name, the town was renamed Suleja.
Today Suleja is a busy commuter and market town for people working in Abuja, while keeping its emirate traditions. Zuma Rock, one of Nigeria's most famous natural landmarks, stands at Madalla on its southern edge.
Top things to do in Suleja
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See Zuma Rock
Zuma Rock, a vast granite monolith beside the Abuja-Kaduna expressway at Madalla, rises about 300 metres above the surrounding land. It appears on the 100 naira note and is especially striking at sunset.
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Learn the emirate's history
The Abuja emirate was founded in the early nineteenth century by rulers from Zazzau (Zaria). The emir's palace in Suleja remains the centre of its traditions and ceremonies.
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Shop at the market
Suleja's market is one of the busiest near Abuja, selling grains, vegetables, livestock, fabrics and household goods, often at lower prices than in the capital.
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Day trip to Gurara Falls
Gurara Falls, a wide waterfall on the Gurara River, is within a short drive of Suleja and is at its fullest towards the end of the rainy season.
Festivals and culture
Eid celebrations at the emir's palace, sometimes with durbar processions of horsemen, are the biggest local events. Christmas and Abuja's concerts and December events are close by.
Food to try
Try suya, kilishi, tuwo with miyan kuka or miyan taushe, masa, fura da nono, and grilled fish and chicken from roadside spots.
Best time to visit
November to March is dry, with harmattan haze in December and January. Visit Gurara Falls between August and October.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the town. Suleja is about 40 minutes from central Abuja on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, though traffic can be heavy at peak times.
Questions about Suleja
Was Suleja once called Abuja?
Yes. The town was called Abuja until 1976, when the name was given to the new federal capital and the town was renamed Suleja.
Where is Zuma Rock?
Zuma Rock is at Madalla, near Suleja in Niger State, beside the Abuja-Kaduna expressway.
How do I find events near Suleja?
Browse upcoming concerts, parties, festivals and free events in Niger State and Abuja on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
