Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, is a classic example of a 'forward capital.' It was purpose-built in the 1980s to replace Lagos, which had become severely congested and politically sensitive due to its location in the Yoruba-dominated southwest. Abuja was chosen for its central location, intended to represent a 'neutral' ground for Nigeria’s 250+ ethnic groups. The city was designed by a consortium of American firms and is known for its grand scale and the iconic Zuma Rock, a massive monolith that marks the gateway to the city. One of the most striking architectural features is the National Mosque and the National Christian Centre, which face each other, symbolizing the religious duality of the nation. While Lagos remains the economic and cultural powerhouse, Abuja serves as the administrative heart where the Presidency and National Assembly are located. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa and a testament to the country's efforts toward national integration following the civil war era.