See Abuja Through My Lens: From Call To Bar to Magic Land Amusement Park

I was born in Lagos and grew up there for most of my life. Typically, the first question I get asked when I share that fact is how many other places I have been to in Nigeria. I get that disappointing glare when I recount my state of origin Anambra, Ekiti, Ogun and Oyo. This year, I really wanted to visit Abuja.

When my sister’s call to bar preparation started, it was the perfect opportunity to tag along. I had lots of questions.

What would it look like?

What is Abuja best known for?

How can I have fun in Abuja?

Thankfully, I got to experience some of these for myself, and because you’re my fave, I would share them with you!

First, the domestic flight. This was my first time flying domestically. For someone who has had the privilege of international flights, I could not understand the “madness” I experienced before boarding. From the rude customer service agents to the sheer lack of organization, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. It was so bad I almost missed my flight. Thankfully, I made it just in time to hear my name called for boarding and left Lagos for the owners.

The main reason for visiting Abuja was to attend my sister’s call to the Nigerian bar. Watching my sister study like her life depended on it in law school was a whole experience. I have never seen her read like that-ever! Now, being on the other side of enjoying that hard work was a dream come true and a huge sigh of relief.

Attending the event at the Body of Benchers Complex was another work of favour by God. I got a special guest invite and didn’t have to struggle for a good seat, thanks to a kind soul we met at our hotel. See, I totally believe in God’s favour, and that was no coincidence. Fast forward to D-Day. The event was short, and the new wigs (as they are called) took their oath. It was a beautiful sight to behold, especially among proud parents and relatives.

We had a mini reception at Abuja Continental by evening, courtesy of some amazing uncles and aunties. It was a buffet, and the instruction was eat till you drop. I took that assignment seriously, and by 10 pm, my stomach could take no more.

With the call to bar done, it was time to explore.

At the top of our list was Magicland amusement park. I had heard so much about this place, and the videos and pictures looked promising. Magic Land is located at Wuye, Abuja and is the perfect place for an outing with every family member, from old to young.

The entry fee was 1500 naira.. Note that they only take cash and convert it to tickets. Thankfully, there are POS stands outside and even within the park in case you need cash. There are also snack stands and a restaurant if you fancy.

The rides range from 1500 to 3000 naira, which are pretty affordable. If you want an all-inclusive package, you pay 18000 naira, which covers your entry fee and access to all the rides.

My siblings and I tried the car race, pendulum and rollercoaster. That pendulum ride was crazy! I would not advise anyone to try it. But guess what? I had seen a TikTok review where the lady advised us not to, and I still went ahead. It was SCARY! My eyes were closed for most of the ride.

We walked around, took some pictures and had an amazing time in general. They also have an arcade, but it looked like Rufus and Bees, Lagos, and I was over it. Another fun spot in Abuja to try is Galaxxy Pizza. It has a calm cafe vibe, and their pizza is top-notch! Their milkshake was also creamy and thick, and definitely good value for money.

Speaking of good food spots, my aunt took us to Akara Cafe. What do we say about people who stay in a niche and are good at it? These guys have hacked the code because how are you making millions from akara (bean cake)? We saw people coming from the gym, or heading to work, trooping in to have an amazing breakfast. The scenery was chill, and I would recommend this place for a beautiful start to your morning in Abuja on a visit. I had their maxi platter and was full till evening.

We also had a stop at the Transcorp Hilton hotel. I have heard about this hotel, but getting to experience it was bliss. My siblings and I enjoyed the piano night and the sonorous voice of the singer while we explored the ground floor and the activities area. The only questions ringing in my head were:

“What are Abuja people doing for a living? How do people pay for this hotel?”

One regret I have is not going to the Kilishi market, a friend suggested. That would have been a good experience to have. It is located at the Area 1 shopping complex, if you want to check it out. I was bummed I took a short time interval to explore the city, but all in all I’m grateful that i got to experience this and look forward to another time at Abuja.

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