Yola is the capital of Adamawa State in north-eastern Nigeria, made up of the old town of Yola and the newer commercial town of Jimeta beside the Benue River. It is the seat of the Lamido of Adamawa, whose emirate was founded in the early nineteenth century.
Adamawa State is mountainous and culturally diverse, with Fulani, Bata, Higi, Kilba and many other peoples. Yola is the base for exploring the Mandara mountains to the north and the highlands along the Cameroon border.
Top things to do in Yola
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Visit the Lamido's palace
The palace of the Lamido of Adamawa in Yola town is the centre of the emirate's traditions and the focus of the durbar during Eid.
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See the Benue River at Jimeta
The Benue River runs past Jimeta, crossed by a long bridge. In the dry season, sandbanks appear and the riverside is busy with fishermen, farmers and traders.
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Watch the Eid durbar
During Eid, horsemen in colourful robes ride in procession to salute the Lamido, with drumming and trumpets, in one of the region's grandest public celebrations.
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Plan a trip to Sukur
The Sukur Cultural Landscape, in the Mandara mountains north of Yola near Madagali, was the first site in Nigeria to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 1999. It includes a hilltop palace, stone-paved paths, terraced fields and ancient iron-working sites. Check local advice before travelling there.
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Explore the markets
Jimeta's market is the commercial heart of Yola, selling grains, livestock, fish, fabrics, crafts and goods traded across the Cameroon border.
Festivals and culture
Eid durbars are the biggest public celebrations. Adamawa's many ethnic groups hold harvest, cultural and masquerade festivals, and Christmas is celebrated by Christian communities.
Food to try
Try tuwo with miyan kuka, masa, kosai, fura da nono, kilishi, and fresh fish from the Benue River.
Best time to visit
November to February is dry and cooler. March to May is very hot. The rainy season runs from about May to September.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the city. Yola has an airport with domestic flights. Check current local advice before travelling outside the city.
Questions about Yola
What is the Sukur Cultural Landscape?
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mandara mountains of Adamawa State, with a hilltop palace, terraced fields and ancient iron-working sites. It was Nigeria's first World Heritage Site, listed in 1999.
What is the difference between Yola and Jimeta?
Yola is the old town and seat of the Lamido, while Jimeta is the commercial town on the Benue River. Together they form the state capital.
How do I find events in Yola?
Browse upcoming festivals, concerts, parties and free events in Yola on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
