About
Lokoja is a city in Kogi State, in central Nigeria, and the state capital. It sits where the Niger and Benue rivers meet, a confluence that gives the city its character and shapes much of what a visitor sees there.
The city is known for its colonial history. Its past as an administrative centre during the colonial period is still visible in parts of the town, and walking through the older areas gives a sense of how the place developed around the rivers. For visitors interested in the history of Nigeria, Lokoja makes a worthwhile stop.
What a visit offers
- The meeting of two major rivers, best appreciated from the banks where the waters join.
- The colonial-era heritage that remains part of the city's streets and older buildings.
- A quieter pace than Nigeria's largest urban centres, suited to slow exploration.
Because Lokoja is the state capital, it also serves as a practical base for seeing the wider region of Kogi State. Visitors planning a trip should check current local conditions and arrangements before travelling, as details of transport and facilities can change.
Deciding whether to go
Lokoja suits travellers who want to combine river scenery with a sense of Nigeria's colonial past, rather than those looking for a large range of attractions in one place. It rewards an unhurried visit, with time to look at the confluence and the older parts of town.