A few days after an emotionally challenging period, I decided to embark on a trip to Kaduna State to clear my mind. I arrived in Kaduna from Zaria around 12:00 pm on December 11, 2021, welcomed warmly by my brother and his family. Shortly after the initial excitement of my arrival, I retreated to my usual guest room to rest.

While I was lost in thought, my brother interrupted and suggested an adventure to Kajuru Castle, a place he believed would lift my spirits. He described the castle’s enchanting architecture, climate, and the unique attractions, including the crocodile guarding the gates and the majestic stainless steel pool. Intrigued, I agreed to join them.

After freshening up, I joined my brother’s family in the living room. Before we left, my brother’s wife offered me some food, which I gladly accepted. I quickly finished a plate of pasta, and soon we were on our way to the castle, an hour’s drive from Kaduna.

Upon arrival, we paid the entrance fee of N10,000 for a one-hour tour. A guide, referred to as the Castle Ghost, greeted us and began the tour, sharing fascinating details about Kajuru Castle. Built in 1989 by a German expatriate, the castle sits atop a hill in Kajuru, approximately 45 kilometers from Kaduna. Styled in a medieval European manner, the castle attracts numerous tourists, earning it the title of the best tourist attraction in Nigeria.

However, despite its charm and historical significance, Kajuru Castle has not seen any significant rehabilitation efforts by the state. The once grand structure now shows signs of neglect, with parts of the building in need of repair and maintenance. The lack of state intervention has left the castle relying heavily on private efforts to maintain its allure and functionality.

The castle features four dungeon rooms and a large master bedroom, which boasts the biggest bathtub in Nigeria. Its unique elements include knight armor with a sword, bookshelves, a bow and arrow, a large chair, and a small center table, giving it a Camelot-like ambiance reminiscent of the movie Merlin.

Curious about its capacity, I asked the Castle Ghost how many people it could accommodate. He explained that while the castle can host up to 150 people for events, its limited number of rooms restrict overnight stays to about ten guests. Despite this, the castle is popular for group vacations, honeymoons, pool parties, and other celebrations. It even includes a kitchen, sauna, and all the amenities needed for an overnight or weekend stay.

My brother, excited by the idea, inquired about the cost of spending a night at the castle. The Castle Ghost informed us that a night for the five of us would cost N150,000, while a weekend would be N270,000. Although my brother abandoned the plan due to the high cost, the Castle Ghost suggested we consider it for a future visit, noting that we would have to arrange our own meals.

As our tour concluded, I felt a sense of joy and excitement wash over me. The castle’s beauty and history had provided a much-needed distraction from my recent troubles. Visiting Kajuru Castle was an unforgettable experience, and for a moment, I forgot all about my previous heartache.