Makurdi, Nigeria

Capital City

With a population of just 170,925, Makurdi may seem like a sleepy backwater, but the reality on the ground is far more chaotic. Bureaucratic headaches abound, as the Tiv and Hausa communities vie for influence in this colonial-era town. Makurdi's position along the Benue River has drawn an eclectic mix of ethnic groups, resulting in persistent tensions - as evidenced by the violent 1946 riots. While the climate is generally warm, the harmattan winds from November to January provide some relief. Overall, Makurdi is a challenging environment, best suited for those with a high tolerance for red tape and cultural friction.