Cities with a High Monkey Population in Nigeria

As someone who grew up in a Nigerian city where monkeys roam freely, I can say that they are amazing creatures to watch.

There are many cities in Nigeria with different endemic monkey species, some of which are being conserved.

In this article, we will look at cities with a high monkey population in Nigeria. We will also learn about these monkeys and how they interact with the locals.

Nigerian Cities with a High Monkey Population

There are many developed cities in Nigeria, but some of these locations have forests, reserves, and endemic wildlife.

Monkeys prefer regions with lots of greenery and food. Some of these cities have strict customs that protect these animals.

1. Calabar

The first city on this list is Calabar, which is located in Cross River State. Calabar is a popular city in Nigeria and is home to some of the country’s primates, like drill monkeys.

Drill Monkeys (Mandrillus leucophaeus) are only found in Cross River State in Nigeria and two other countries, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon.

This alone puts Calabar at the top of the list. Tourists can visit the Drill Ranch in Calabar to spend some time with these wonderful animals.

Places to see different monkeys, chimpanzees, and gorillas in Cross River State are Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary and Cross River National Park.

In these places, you will see other native monkeys like the Sclater’s guenon, also known as the Sclater’s monkey or the Nigerian monkey.

Another unique monkey to look out for is the Preuss’s monkey, which is only found in the forests of eastern Nigeria.

Want to see monkeys swinging from tree to tree? This is one of the cities to visit.

2. Lagos

Another Nigerian city that has a good population of monkeys is Lagos. With Lekki Conservation Centre being the best place to see monkeys in Lagos.

Lekki Conservation Centre, also known as LCC, is home to Mona monkeys, which are native to West Africa. This conservation centre has the longest canopy walkway in Africa.

Aside from the Lekki Conservation Centre, monkeys are occasionally seen in residential areas in some parts of Lagos State.

3. Awka

Awka is a city in Anambra State that is known for its monkey population. The people of Awka have a history that forbids the hunting of these animals in the region.

During the Imoka festival, the people celebrate the Imoka god, and white-bellied monkeys have a place in this history.

Although there are no conservation centres to see monkeys in Awka, they are seen frequently in residential areas and farms.

4. Abeokuta

Abeokuta is another city that is home to monkeys in Nigeria. This city is the capital of Ogun State, located southwest of Nigeria.

Although Abeokuta is famous for the Olumo Rock, there are also a few monkeys seen daily, with many remaining hidden in the forests.

The lush forests create a perfect home which allows them to jump from tree to tree.

One thing should be certain: if you are visiting this city to see monkeys, Abeokuta is not as primate-packed as Calabar and many other places.

5. Taraba

Taraba State in Nigeria is another place to see monkeys in their natural habitat. In this state, you will find Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve and Gashaka Gumti National Park, which are both home to many wildlife.

You are sure to find monkeys like putty-nosed, Mona, and Tantalus monkeys in these destinations.

Aside from monkeys, you will also find Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees at Gashaka Gumti National Park.

Fun Facts About Monkeys in Nigeria

1. Sacred Status

In parts of Nigeria like Awka, monkeys are considered sacred animals. This makes their population grow since they are protected by traditional laws.

2. Endemic Species

Nigeria has some endemic species of monkeys that can only be found in the country and sometimes in West Africa. Examples are Preuss’s guenon and drill monkey.

Conclusion

Now you know the cities with the highest population of monkeys in Nigeria. The best part about these cities is that the monkeys are found roaming about in their natural habitat.

In summary, the cities with a high monkey population in Nigeria are Calabar, Lagos, Awka, Abeokuta, and Taraba.

FAQs

Are there monkeys in Lagos?

Yes, there are monkeys in Lagos. The Lekki Conservation Centre is a good place to see monkeys in Lagos.

Other places to see Mona Monkeys in Lagos are in areas from Gbagada to Akoka.

Which monkey species are most common in Nigeria?

In Nigeria, you will find species like the drill, patas monkey, and mona monkey.