In what year did Abuja replace Lagos as Nigeria's capital? Abuja replaced Lagos in 1991.
Nigeria formally moved its federal capital on 12 December 1991, during the military government of Ibrahim Babangida. Lagos had served as the capital since independence, but rapid population growth, congestion, limited room for expansion, and its position on the country's southwestern coast encouraged planners to seek a more central location.
The decision to create a new capital began with Decree No. 6 in 1976, issued under Murtala Mohammed. Abuja was selected partly because its central position was seen as more geographically neutral among Nigeria's major regional and ethnic blocs. International planners then developed a purpose-built city, with Kenzo Tange's team designing its central business district.
A common mix-up is confusing 1976, when the Federal Capital Territory was established and the relocation was initiated, with 1991, when Abuja actually became the capital. Lagos remains Nigeria's largest commercial and financial centre, while Abuja is the political and administrative capital. The city is also known for Aso Rock, the Presidential Complex, the National Assembly, and the Supreme Court.