Jos Museum and Zoo — Attraction in Plateau State

The National Museum in Jos, established in 1952 by Bernard Fagg, is widely recognized as one of Nigeria's most significant cultural institutions. While some reports suggest it has faced challenges with disrepair in recent years, it continues to hold substantial appeal for its extensive collection of artifacts and its role as a research center. Here's a review of the National Museum Jos, highlighting its key features and visitor information: Key Highlights and Collections: Nok Terracotta Heads: The museum is particularly famous for its impressive collection of Nok terracotta sculptures, dating from between 500 BC to AD 200. These ancient artifacts offer a unique glimpse into the artistic prowess and history of the Nok civilization. Pottery Hall: This hall showcases a diverse and exquisitely crafted collection of pottery from various parts of Nigeria, highlighting the country's rich tradition in ceramics. Museum of Traditional Nigerian Architecture (MOTNA): This unique exhibit features life-sized replicas of traditional structures from different Nigerian ethnic groups, including the formidable walls of Kano, the Mosque at Zaria, and a quaint Tiv village. It provides an immersive experience of Nigeria's diverse building traditions. Colonial Period Artifacts: The museum also displays artifacts from the colonial era, including items related to the railway and tin mining industry, telling the story of Nigeria's journey into modernity. Archaeological and Ethnographic Collections: The museum holds significant archaeological and ethnographic collections, providing insights into early Nigerian societies, their beliefs, customs, and artistic expressions in terracotta, metal, stone, wood, and ivory. Role and Importance: Research Centre: The Jos Museum serves as an important research center for archaeology and ethnography in Nigeria. School for Museum Technicians: It hosts a School for Museum Technicians, established with UNESCO's assistance, which trains future custodians of Nigeria's cultural heritage. Cultural Preservation: The museum plays a crucial role in preserving Nigeria's cultural heritage and provides a link to the nation's past. Visitor Information: Opening Hours: The National Museum Jos (and the adjacent zoo) is generally open daily. While some sources state 10 AM to 6 PM, others indicate slightly varied times: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM It's advisable to confirm directly with the museum for the most current hours. Entrance Fee: While specific current fees are not consistently published, past reports indicate an entrance fee of around NGN 200. It's best to inquire upon arrival. Location: 1 Museum St, Jos, Plateau, Nigeria. The museum is located adjacent to a zoo, offering a combined experience for visitors. Tips for Visitors: Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience. Inquire about guided tours for deeper insights into the exhibits. Be aware of photography regulations, as some exhibits may have restrictions. Bring a camera for photo opportunities. Overall Impression: Despite some concerns about maintenance, the National Museum Jos remains a vital institution for understanding Nigeria's rich history, diverse cultures, and artistic heritage, particularly its world-renowned Nok terracotta collection. It offers a unique and enriching experience for those interested in Nigerian archaeology, art, and traditional...

The Jos museum and zoo is an interesting place to visit alone or in company of others. It houses quite a number of local and foreign animals for every animals. On entrance, you will meet the crocodiles in the ponds surrounded by shallow water bodies. Then you meet the monkeys, pigeons, lions, eagles of different types, jackals a d even a python. This is a really nice place to spend time with friends and family under a cool atmosphere. There are train cabins and cars used in the early 1900s there as well as all sorts of artefacts of Nigerian origin. In the museum, there are ancient pots, ancient jewellery, drums, weapons of war used in the olden days and even protective gears used by ancient warriors. The museum and zoo is a place to visit whenever you're in Jos. It certainly will be a time well spent. So, welcome to the tin...

I visited the museum and I almost passed the zoo, thankfully I didn't miss this beautiful place.

First, the guides at the zoo were so awesome and professional, I loved their warm welcome.

The first took me to the gallery section and I was amazed at the level of holding onto the beautiful of the zoo oldies. (You need to see this for yourself).

Then to the main deal(the main zoo). The little animals there were entertaining.

OMG, I was so elated watching their displays, I bet, you'll want to see this for yourself.

Add this to your to-do list if you are in Jos or want to visit here.

Lastly, a whole lot of works need to be done here, the government needs to refurnish the zoo with animals, to be more entertaining.

I enjoyed the little time.

PS: you'll pay an...