Bama, Nigeria
Region: Bama is located in Borno State, Nigeria
Geographic Coordinates: 11.518900, 13.684200
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 40.0°C (68°F to 104°F)
Climate: Bama, Nigeria has a hot and dry climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to March and a wet season from April to October.
Population: 118121
Language: Hausa
Bama is a city located in Borno State, Nigeria, Situated on the banks of the Yedseram River. The river provides water for irrigation and fishing to its population of approximately 200, 000 people. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. One of the most prominent landmarks in Bama is the Bama Rock – a natural rock formation that towers above its surroundings. Local communities have been using it as a place of worship for centuries, And it has become an essential pilgrimage site for both Muslims and Christians.
Apart from its cultural significance, Bama also serves as an economic hub in northeastern Nigeria. Agriculture forms the backbone of the local economy with crops like maize, Millet, Sorghum and rice being grown in large quantities. Fishing also plays a pivotal role due to abundant fish found nearby. However, Despite being economically significant, Bama has faced immense challenges over recent years due to ongoing conflicts between government forces and insurgent groups such as Boko Haram. This conflict has led to widespread displacement of residents from their homes and damage to infrastructure such as schools and hospitals.
Despite these challenges though there are efforts made by both governmental agencies alongside international organizations like UNICEF who are working towards rebuilding homes destroyed during conflicts so that displaced persons can return back home safely with access to basic amenities like clean water supply systems etc. In conclusion, Bama remains an important cultural center with a rich history that continues to attract visitors from around Nigeria while facing various socio-economic challenges caused by ongoing conflicts within its borders.’
- Bama Rock: A massive rock formation that is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
- Mandara Mountains: A range of mountains located near Bama that offers stunning views and hiking opportunities.
- Nguru Lake: A picturesque lake located near Bama that is home to a variety of bird species.
- Shehu of Borno Palace: The palace of the traditional ruler of the area, which showcases traditional architecture and culture.
- Gwoza Hills: Another set of hills located near Bama that offer scenic views and hiking opportunities.
- Kaltumari Game Reserve: A wildlife reserve located near Bama that is home to a variety of animal species, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and more.
- Waza National Park: One of the largest national parks in West Africa located nearby with diverse flora & fauna including elephants & lions among others
- Gambaru Wildlife Reserve- This reserve is known for its lush vegetation which provides shelter to some rare animals such as chimpanzees among other primates.
- ‘Bama, Nigeria is primarily an agricultural community with farming being the major industry.
- The town also has a few small businesses such as local shops and markets.
- However, due to the ongoing conflict in the region, many businesses have been forced to shut down or relocate.
- The Boko Haram insurgency: Bama has been one of the worst-hit areas by the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria, which started in 2009. The town has witnessed several attacks, including bombings, abductions, and killings.
- The Kanem-Bornu Empire: Bama was part of the Kanem-Bornu Empire, a medieval African state that existed from the 9th to the 19th century. The empire was known for its military prowess and trade relations with other African and Arab states.
- Shehu Sanda Kyarimi: Shehu Sanda Kyarimi was a prominent Islamic scholar and leader from Bama who played a significant role in promoting education and religious tolerance in northern Nigeria.
- Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki: Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki is a Nigerian politician who served as Governor of Kwara State from 2003 to 2011 before being elected as Senator for Kwara Central constituency in 2011. He hails from an influential political family in Ilorin but has strong connections to Bama through his mother’s lineage.
- Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi: Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi is a Nigerian businessman who hails from Bama town. He is the founder of Oriental Energy Resources Limited (OER), an oil exploration company operating in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.
- Ahmadu Ibn Furtu: Ahmadu Ibn Furtu was a renowned Islamic scholar and historian who wrote extensively about West Africa’s history during the colonial era.
- Battle of Ngala: During World War I, British forces fought against German forces at Ngala near Bama on August 25-26,1914 resulting to British victory over Germany
- Battle Of Mora: In 1808, Bama was the site of a major battle between the Fulani Empire and the Kanem-Bornu Empire. The Fulani forces were victorious in this battle, which marked a turning point in the history of northern Nigeria.
- The Bama Massacre: On September 1, 2014, Boko Haram militants attacked and killed over one hundred Nigerian soldiers in Bama during an attempt to recapture the town from government forces.
- Dr Dikko Yusufu Abdullahi: Dr Dikko Yusufu Abdullahi is a renowned medical doctor and academician who hails from Bama town. He has made significant contributions to medical research and education in Nigeria and beyond.
- National War Museum, Umuahia
- National Museum of Unity, Enugu
- Ogbunike Caves, Anambra State
- Arochukwu Long Juju Slave Route and Cave Temple
- Nike Art Gallery, Lagos
- Olumo Rock, Abeokuta
- Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos
- Yankari Game Reserve and Safari Park in Bauchi State
- Zuma Rock in Niger State
- The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Osogbo, Osun State
Note: These places are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Bama, Nigeria.
- Super Eagles – Nigerian national football team
- D’Tigers – Nigerian national basketball team
- Enyimba International FC – a professional football club based in Aba, Nigeria
- Kano Pillars FC – a professional football club based in Kano, Nigeria
- Plateau United FC – a professional football club based in Jos, Nigeria
These are just a few examples of the many sports teams that exist across Nigeria but not necessarily specific to Bama town or local government area (LGA).
- Argungu Fishing Festival is a prominent cultural event in Bama, Nigeria that takes place every February or March. It involves a fishing competition where participants catch fish using their bare hands.
- Durbar Festival is celebrated by the Muslim community in Bama after Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha celebrations. It features colorful horse parades, music, and dance.
- Mmanwu Festival is held in December and showcases masquerade performances by various groups in Bama.
- New Yam Festival happens annually between August and September to mark the beginning of yam harvest season with feasting, dancing, and traditional rites.
- Erijiyan Ekiti Cultural Festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Ekiti people of Bama through traditional dances, music performances, food fairs, and more.
- Igue Festival is celebrated by the Esan people of Bama in December or January to mark their new year celebration with traditional dances showcasing their culture.
- Ososo Carnival takes place on Christmas day annually featuring street parades from different groups within Ososo community showcasing their culture through music, dance, costumes, etc.
- Tuwo Shinkafa: A dish made from rice flour and served with a soup or stew.
- Miyan Kuka: A soup made from powdered baobab leaves and meat.
- Kilishi: A spicy dried meat snack.
- Suya: Grilled skewered meat with spices.
- Masa: Rice cakes that are fried and served with a sauce or stew.
Some popular restaurants in Bama, Nigeria include:
- Alhaji Hassan Restaurant
- Mama Put Restaurant
- Jolly Food Court
- Ado Bayero Restaurant
- Gidan Dabino Restaurant
- Bama Game Reserve
- Mandara Mountains
- Lake Chad
- Sambisa Forest Reserve
- Gwoza Hills Forest Reserve
- Yedseram Waterfalls
- Rock formations at Pulka
- Mountain climbing at Madagali Hills
- Fishing at Kirenowa Dam
- Bird watching and nature walks in the forests of Bama.
Note: Please ensure to check with local authorities before visiting some of these locations, especially those near the border with Cameroon and areas affected by insurgency activities in North-East Nigeria, due to security concerns.
