Monarchs in Nigeria are underrated sometimes, but in the real sense, they are some of the most important people in every country.
They were the apex tier of government in the past before the colonial rule then the modern-day mode of governing shifted them to the space they are right now.
Nevertheless, they still hold some significance in each state they occupy as long as they don’t annoy the governor of such state.
Let’s take a look at the lavish Palaces of some of these monarchs.
The Ohinoyi Of Ebira Land
The Ohinoyi Of Ebira Land has one of the most talked-about Palaces in Nigeria and no doubt one of the most beautiful palaces if not the best in Nigeria.
His Royal Majesty Dr. Abdul Rahman Ado Ibrahim has been the ruler of Ebiraland since 1997.
The Palace is located in the town of Okene which is the administrative center of the Ebira-speaking people, Okene is located in the Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State Nigeria.
Oba Of Benin Palace
In the heart of Benin City, lies the home of one of the oldest Monarchy in Nigeria.
The Oba’s palace has gone through several renovations since 1230 AD to make it a tourist destination.
Tourists get to see the Oba’s court, his queens’ Harem, and the Palace Museum of priceless artifacts you might not find in the National Benin Museum outside the palace.
Gidan Rumfa
This is the Palace of the Emir of Kano in the city of Kano. Built in the late 15th century, this Palace forebears Kano’s historical and traditional heritage.
It is a mixture of both traditional and modern architectural elements is in tune with the culture of the people. The Palace has an open area for Durbar festivals and opposite it, is the Kano Museum filled with interesting pre-colonial pieces.
The Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Osun
In the City of Ife, the ancestral home of the Yorubas is the abode of the Palace of the Ooni.
In Enuwa town in Ile Ife, this palace dates as far back as 500 BC. The Palace has been renovated over the years to its current immaculate-looking state with its luxurious courtyard. It is a Palace worth visiting.
The Iga Idungaran
This is the home of the Oba of Lagos. Built on the day Nigeria gained its independence in 1960, this Palace is considered an administrative centre.
Its name can be translated to mean ‘The home or Palace built on a pepper farm’.
There is nothing ordinary about this palace as it is rich in history with superior architecture. It includes the burial grounds for the previous Obas not buried in Benin City.
The Palace of the Emir of Zazzau
You can find this Palace in the city of Zaria. It is a picturesque building made with traditional Habe architecture.
Having its walls decorated with the Emir’s insignia makes it a great photo spot. Plus, it is close to the Zaria Forest reserve, for nature lovers who want something else to accompany the history of the Zaria Emirate shared in the palace.
The Palace of the Emir of Bauchi
This grand palace plays tribute to the ingeniousness of pre-colonial builders. All the materials used to build the palace are local, and the architecture has been preserved throughout the years. Its courtyard, are other structures used for council meetings and the home of the Emir. It provides a good view for watching the Durbar festival and is home to some unique birds.
The Palace of the Sultan of Sokoto
This patriotic-looking building is home to the traditional and spiritual leader of the Sokoto Caliphate. It features an extensive courtyard lined with trees and green plants that make you feel you are in a period movie. It has a museum with traditional and cultural relics from the era of previous Sultans’.
You get to see the Palace guards dressed in fitted multi-colored regalia and robes. The palace has lots of luxurious bedrooms and a mosque. If you are lucky to visit during a special occasion, you might see the Sultan’s famous trumpeters.
