Family Adventure in Gashaka Gumti National Park

A Day of Abuja Adventures

Today was a fantastic exploration of Abuja, filled with serene landscapes, delicious food, and lively atmospheres. Aisha and the kids were just as excited as I was to experience a different side of this vibrant city. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the beauty and culture of Nigeria with the world, and to create lasting memories with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lagos Bistro. Located in Wuse 2, the bistro promised a taste of Lagos right here in Abuja. The warm ambiance and stylish decor made it a perfect spot to start our day. Aisha chose a traditional Nigerian breakfast of moi-moi and pap, while Tunde went for the yam porridge. Funke, ever the adventurous one, opted for the plantain pancakes. I decided on the classic suya omelet, a delightful fusion of local and international flavors. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a great start to our Abuja adventure.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Nigeria at Lagos Bistro in Abuja – where local ingredients meet international cuisine.

After breakfast, we drove to the Usuma Lower Dam. The drive itself was quite scenic, offering glimpses of Abuja’s natural beauty. As we approached the dam, the landscape opened up to reveal a breathtaking view of the water. The Usuma Lower Dam is located in Ushafa, Bwari Area Council, a few kilometers from the city. It’s a popular spot for hikers, families, and tourists seeking a tranquil escape. The kids were excited to stretch their legs and explore.


Explore Usuma Lower Dam in Abuja for a serene escape into nature, featuring stunning views, outdoor activities, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

We spent a couple of hours at the dam, hiking along the trails and taking in the panoramic views. The air was fresh, and the scenery was incredibly peaceful. I took the opportunity to snap some photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape. Tunde and Funke, of course, were busy taking selfies and posting them on their social media. Aisha and I simply enjoyed the serenity, grateful for a moment of calm amidst our busy lives. I couldn't help but reflect on my childhood in Wamba, remembering the simple joys of exploring the outdoors. It felt good to reconnect with nature and share that experience with my family.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of places.

By lunchtime, we were all quite hungry. We drove to Flavour Restaurant/Bar Ndok Junction Ogaja, C. R. S. I must admit, finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, but it was well worth the effort. The restaurant had a lively, local vibe, and the aroma of traditional Nigerian dishes filled the air. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including jollof rice, egusi soup, and pounded yam. The food was rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Aisha particularly enjoyed the egusi soup, while the kids couldn’t get enough of the jollof rice. I savored every bite, feeling a sense of connection to my heritage.


Experience authentic Nigerian cuisine at Flavour Restaurant/Bar in Ndok Junction, Cross River – a culinary journey awaits every visitor.

In the late afternoon, we decided to visit O’Shey Bar & Chops for a relaxed evening. Though I knew that the O’Shey Bar & Chops was located in Yaba, Lagos, according to my research, I was keen to see what the Abuja branch has to offer. The bar had a vibrant, Irish-themed decor. The music was lively, and the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. We ordered a round of drinks – Chapman for the kids, and a couple of local beers for Aisha and me. We also ordered some small chops to share – suya, peppered gizzard, and plantain chips. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at OSHey Bar & Chops, a must-visit culinary hotspot in Lagos.

As the evening wore on, the bar became more crowded, and the music got louder. Tunde and Funke were in their element, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Aisha and I watched them, smiling, grateful for these moments of connection. I couldn’t help but think about my life back in Ottawa, and how different it was from my childhood in Nigeria. Yet, in that moment, surrounded by my family and immersed in the vibrant culture of my homeland, I felt a sense of belonging that transcended borders and time zones.

For dinner, we headed to Argungu, a seafood restaurant located at Jabi Waterfront. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of Jabi Lake. The ambiance was lively yet relaxed, making it an ideal spot for a family dinner. We started with a seafood platter, featuring grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari. For the main course, Aisha and I ordered the fisherman’s soup, while the kids opted for grilled fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. As we ate, we enjoyed the beautiful view of the lake, watching the boats glide by in the moonlight.


Savor authentic Nigerian seafood at Argungu – where vibrant flavors meet stunning lakeside views in Abuja.

The kids were particularly fascinated by the Argungu Fishing Festival, which the restaurant is named after. I told them stories of the festival, describing the excitement and energy of the event. They were captivated, imagining the fishermen competing to catch the biggest fish. It was a great opportunity to share a piece of Nigerian culture with them, connecting them to their heritage.

As we finished our dinner, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. Today had been a wonderful blend of adventure, culture, and connection. We had explored a beautiful dam, savored delicious Nigerian dishes, and unwound in a lively bar. Most importantly, we had spent quality time together as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. I was reminded of the importance of these trips back to Nigeria, not just for me, but for my children as well. It’s a way for them to connect with their roots, to understand their heritage, and to appreciate the richness and diversity of Nigerian culture.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Idere Hills. I am excited to see what adventures await us there. It will be another opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Nigeria and create lasting memories with my family. I am particularly looking forward to the hike, and the chance to capture some stunning photos of the landscape. I am also eager to learn more about the history and culture of the area, and to share that knowledge with my children.

As I reflect on today’s experiences, I am filled with a sense of optimism and excitement for the days ahead. Nigeria has so much to offer, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with my family and with you, my readers. Until tomorrow, safe travels and happy exploring!