Numan

Numan is a town in southern Adamawa State, situated on the Benue River. It is the headquarters of Numan LGA and lies at the junction of the road from Yola to Taraba State. The town is historically significant as the seat of the Bachama people and their traditional ruler, the Hama Bachama.

The climate is tropical, with the rainy season (May–October) bringing significant rainfall and occasional flooding from the Benue River. The dry season (November–April) is the best time to visit.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Yola International Airport (YOL), about 80 km north.

By Train

No passenger rail service.

By Car / Road

Numan is on the main road from Yola to Jalingo, Taraba State. Buses and shared taxis from Yola take about 1 hr.

Motorcycle taxis (okada) and tricycles are the main local transport.

• The Benue River — scenic river views and fishing activities

• Hama Bachama's Palace — the traditional palace of the Bachama king

• The Vunon wrestling festival site — a traditional wrestling ground near Farai

• River fishing excursions — the Benue River is a major fishing area

• Attend the Vunon wrestling festival — a traditional Bachama wrestling event

Fresh fish from the Benue River is a specialty. Local dishes include Tuwo and various fish soups.

Water, soft drinks, and zobo are available. Traditional millet beer is sometimes available in local bars.

Basic guesthouses are available in Numan. For more options, Yola (1 hr north) has a wider range.

The local market sells fish, grains, vegetables, and household goods.

• Yola — 1 hr north, the state capital
• Jalingo — 2 hrs south, the Taraba State capital
• Ganye — 1.5 hrs east