Yobe

Yobe State is a state in north-eastern Nigeria, created in 1991 from Borno State. Its capital, Damaturu, is an administrative centre on the road from Maiduguri to Potiskum. The state is predominantly Kanuri and Hausa-Fulani, with a semi-arid Sahel climate. The state was severely affected by the Boko Haram insurgency and travellers should verify security conditions.

The state is an agricultural producer of groundnuts, gum arabic, and millet. The Nguru wetlands and the shores of Lake Chad in the far north provide important habitats for migratory birds.

The dry season (November–April) is the only viable travel period. Security should be the primary consideration.

The dry season (November–April) is the only viable period. The rainy season (June–September) is short.

The nearest major airport is Maiduguri (2 hrs from Damaturu). Major roads connect Damaturu to Maiduguri, Potiskum, and Gashua.

• Damaturu — the state capital, with the Yobe State Government House
• Potiskum — the largest commercial city, a major livestock market centre
• Gashua — a town on the Yobe River, the seat of the Emir of Bade
• Nguru — a town on the Nguru wetlands, an important bird area
• Geidam — a town in the north, near the Niger border
• Buni Yadi — a town in the south
• Gujba — a town in the south
• Fika — a historic town, the seat of the Emir of Fika
• Machina — a border town with Niger
• Jakusko — a town in the north
• Babbangida — a town in the south
• Dapchi — a town in the north
• Nangere — a town in the south
• Yusufari — a town in the north

Kanuri and Hausa cuisine.

The Bade Emirate in Gashua and the Fika Emirate have traditional durbars.

• Visit the Nguru wetlands — an important bird area for migratory species
• Attend the Potiskum livestock market — one of the largest cattle markets in the north-east
• Explore the Emir of Fika's Palace