Guess which cities made our top 5 safest cities in Nigeria…
In a country where suicide bomb attack is now a civil service job, security of lives and properties is a luxury most Nigerians can’t afford. The Boko Haram insurgency in the north-east has made that region of the country a no-go area. Jos, which could easily have been one of the most peaceful and safest cities in Nigeria has lost that status in recent times, due to the spate of killings and bomb blasts that have been the hallmark of the tin city.
Also Maiduguri and Damaturu, capitals of Borno and Yobe states respectively have been worst hit by the deadly insurgents.
However, there are cities in Nigeria that have not seen or witnessed a tread of attack by the insurgents who continue to run riot in the country. Five out of the numerous cities in Nigeria, make the list of our top safest cities due to consistency in keeping a safe haven for the indigenes, residents and visitors alike.
1. UYO
Uyo is the capital of one of Nigeria’s most enterprising state. Uyo ranks top on our list because its not just one of Nigeria’s safest cities but also ranks as one of the topmost livable cities in Nigeria. The town became the capital of Akwa Ibom State on September 23, 1987 following the creation of Akwa Ibom state from erstwhile Cross River state.
Uyo is home to many notable housing districts such as the Ewet Housing Estate, Osongama Estate and Shelter Afrik. The city of Uyo is notably neat and hospitable to foreigners and its aborigines. Its rapid development makes it the preferred destination for most visitors and expatriates. Highbrow residential areas in Uyo include the prestigious Ewet Housing Estate, Osongama Estate, Shelter Afrik and a host of other choice areas in the town and its environs.
Uyo has arguably the most beautiful stadium in Nigeria at the moment.
The city boasts recreational areas such as the Ibom Connection and the prestigious Le Meridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort.
It has enough funding for setting up security units and this makes the city one of the best out there.
2. OWERRI
Owerri is the capital of Imo State set in the heart of Igboland. Little wonder it is referred to as the heartland state. The city ranks tops on safety matters, has a thriving economy and is becoming a preferred destination for tourists.
Owerri is serene yet entertaining. The beauties inherent make it a fun spot.
Though it has had its fair share of kidnappings in the past, safety is still something the city prioritizes.
3. CALABAR
It is believed that Calabar is the first Nigerian capital city.
Though a relatively small city, Calabar offers visitors many reasons why they should be their guests. With its low crime rate, booming economic activities and a plethora of tourist sites, the city should be every sane Nigerian’s destination when you are want to go on a vacation within the country. The city has many expatriates because the government provides a conducive environment for them. Its no doubt one of the safest places to live in Nigeria. If you are a Nigerian and you are yet to visit Calabar then your patriotism should be questioned!
The only well-known violence or atrocity in Calabar should be the rampant killing of the twins that happened years before we were born, right?
Read also: TOP 5 UNSAFE ZONES IN LAGOS
4. ENUGU
Enugu city is the capital and administrative centre of Enugu state. Enugu gets our recognition for its investments in security apparatus and patrols which has made it hard for criminals to thrive not even kidnappers. The city’s clean and tide environment, friendly people and hordes of tourist attractions also helps in making it a good place to live away from the drama in the east.
On 30 May 1967 Enugu was declared the capital of the short-lived Republic of Biafra; for this Enugu is known as the “capital of Igboland”
5. AKURE
Akure is a city with various and liberal religious leanings. Christianity, Islam and Traditional or Totemistic worship forming the basis of faith for most residents.The preponderance of churches in the city cannot be ignored. There is the Central Mosque on the Oba Adesida Road,forming a major landmark in the city.Worthy of mention is the fact that they all enjoy a peaceful co-existence in the city hub regardless of their varying religious affiliations.
These are our top 5 safest cities to live in Nigeria, albeit one city is conspicuously missing from this list. A city which would easily have been our number one but for the recent bombings. Although the bombings took place in the outskirts of the city in places close to Nasarawa state, like it was last year, that doesn’t change the fact that the places affected are not part and parcel of the city. Though Abuja is the nation’s seat of power and has a detailed security apparatus, security installations and an awesome team of policemen patrolling the city, it still doesn’t guarantee any place on our top 5.
Would you say the aforementioned cities that made our top 5 safest cities in Nigeria merit the ranks?
What sayest thou?