Zuma Rock
Zuma Rock is a huge monolith beside the Abuja-Kaduna road, west of Abuja.
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Quick facts
- State
- Niger State
- City
- Madalla
- Category
- Landmarks
- Location
- Madalla, Suleja Local Government Area, Niger State
- Height
- about 725 m above sea level, rising about 300 m above the land around it
- Type
- monolith (inselberg)
- On the 100-naira note
- yes
Zuma Rock is a huge monolith beside the Abuja-Kaduna road, west of Abuja. It is one of Nigeria's best-known landmarks and appears on the 100-naira note.
Where it is
Zuma Rock stands in Madalla, a rural settlement in Suleja Local Government Area, Niger State. It lies west of Abuja along the main Abuja-Kaduna road. It was once wrongly thought to be in the Federal Capital Territory.
Geology
The rock is a monolith formed by an igneous intrusion of gabbro and granodiorite. It is Precambrian in age.
History and culture
- The Gbagyi people used the rock as a defensive retreat during wars between neighbouring groups
- The Zuba people called it "zumwa", which may mean "a place of guinea fowls"
- The Koro people lived in a forest village at the rock, and their chief served as priest of the rock's deity
- Many local stories and beliefs surround the rock
Visiting
We have not confirmed current visitor access, entry fees or climbing rules, so we do not list them. Check the latest government advice and local information first. See is Nigeria safe to visit?.
For another famous rock, see Olumo Rock in Ogun State. More: places to visit in Nigeria.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Zuma Rock?
In Madalla, Suleja Local Government Area, Niger State. It lies west of Abuja along the Abuja-Kaduna road.
How tall is Zuma Rock?
It rises about 725 m above sea level and about 300 m above the land around it.
Is Zuma Rock on the naira?
Yes, it appears on the 100-naira note.
Is it safe to visit Zuma Rock?
The UK government advises against all but essential travel to Niger State and warns of kidnappings on major highways including the Abuja-Kaduna road. Check current advice before planning a visit.
Sources and further reading
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