Biu

Understand

The town is predominantly inhabited by the Biu ethnic group, but also boasts a diverse mix of other ethnicities, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry. The locals communicate in the Biu language, also known as Biu-Mandara, while Hausa and Kanuri are also widely spoken, reflecting the town's linguistic diversity. Agriculture is the backbone of Biu's economy, with maize, millet, and sorghum being major crops, alongside livestock rearing, which is also a common practice. This agricultural focus has contributed to the town's economic growth and stability.

History Biu's storied past spans over six centuries, beginning with its founding in the 14th century by the Biu ethnic group, who migrated from the nearby Mandara Mountains. This marked the beginning of a rich cultural journey that would see Biu evolve into a significant hub of commerce and trade in the ancient Kanem-Bornu Empire by the 15th century. The 16th century saw the introduction of Islamic scholars and traders, who brought with them the teachings of Islam, which eventually became an integral part of Biu's cultural fabric. The town's resilience was further demonstrated in the 18th century when it resisted Fulani rule during the Fulani Jihad, maintaining its independence and unique cultural identity.

Getting there

There is no airport in Biu, but Maiduguri International Airport (MIU) is nearby.

By bus Several bus companies operate from cities like Maiduguri, Damaturu, and Yola to Biu. You can take a bus from these cities to get to Biu.

Getting around

Walking Biu is a relatively small town, and walking is a great way to explore the local markets, shops, and historical sites. Motorcycles (Okada): Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation in Biu. You can hire an okada to take you around the town. Tricycles (Keke Napep): Tricycles are also widely available and can be used to get around Biu. Taxis Taxis are available in Biu, but they may not be as frequent as okadas or keke napep. Private vehicles If you have a private vehicle, you can use it to get around Biu. Bicycles Bicycles are also a good option for getting around Biu, especially for shorter distances.

See

1 Biu Emirate's palace. 2 Biu Central Mosque, ☏ +234 8109498699. (updated Aug 2024)

Do

1 Biu Main Market. Browse the bustling marketplace for local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. 2 Biu Stadium, Stadium, LGA. (updated Aug 2024)

Buy

3 Biu Market, ☏ +234 8066930212. 24 hours. The market's strategic location in the town center makes it easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. Vendors offer an extensive range of products, including fresh produce, meat, poultry, handicrafts, spices, local snacks, household items, clothing, and accessories. (updated Aug 2024) 1 Bayan tasha, ☏ +234 808 466 3809. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Yarima Isa Siniya Store, Main Market, Rd Dugja ward, ☏ +234 803 936 3834. Daily 8AM-6PM. (updated Dec 2024)

Eat

1 Africana Restaurant Biu, Abbatoir St. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Dadin Kowa International Restaurant, Waranya-Buratai-Biu Road. (updated Dec 2024) 3 Chill N Chill, ☏ +234 708 573 1632. (updated Dec 2024)

Drink & nightlife

1 cityhills compter cafe biu, ☏ +234 803 857 7723. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Progress Computer Center Nasarawa Biu Borno State, Gombi Rd. (updated Dec 2024) 3 DCBC, ☏ +234 806 419 2295. (updated Dec 2024)

Sleep

1 Debiro Queen Hotel. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Tourist Lodge, Tourist Lodge, Road. (updated Dec 2024) 3 Cedar Wood Hotel, Gombe-wuyo-Biu Road. (updated Dec 2024) 4 Apex Continental Hotel Biu, Gombe-Biu-Road. (updated Dec 2024) 5 Biu Summit Hotel & Resort, Gombe Road. (updated Dec 2024) 6 Biu Luxury Motel and Suites. (updated Dec 2025)