Gombe, Nigeria

Capital City

With a population of just 198,546, Gombe is a far cry from the bustling metropolises many expats envision. The reality is a provincial capital struggling with the challenges of northern Nigeria - a heavy bureaucratic burden and persistent security threats from Boko Haram. Farming and livestock rearing dominate the local economy, while the climate is a steamy tropical savanna. On the plus side, Gombe does host a state university and a new 12,000-seat stadium, suggesting some urban amenities. But overall, this is a city best suited for those seeking a quieter, more traditional Nigerian experience, not the glitz and glamor of Lagos.