Designated as a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2021, Bida became the first city in Nigeria to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). The city is geographically located in Niger State, with coordinates 9°05′N, 6°01′E, and spans a total area of 1,698 km² (656 square miles). Founded in 1815, Bida is predominantly inhabited by the Nupe ethnic group.

The people of Bida are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in glassmaking, iron and brass smithing, wood carving, fabric weaving, raffia art, as well as traditional music and songs that date back to the 11th century. Bida’s expertise in glassmaking represents an ancient skill that has been preserved across generations, alongside its rich cultural heritage of folk festivals featuring music, dance, and songs.

The most widely celebrated event is the Bida Bariki Festival, which includes the iconic durbar horseback riding parade. This vibrant procession winds through the old streets of the city, showcasing the cultural heritage of its people.

Bida has a long history of trading in crafts, including glass, brass, silver, and ironworks, dating back to the 14th century. The city established trade relationships with great nations like the Songhai Empire of Mali, the Ashanti Empire of Ghana, and the Kanem-Bornu Empire of Borno.

Bida operates under a democratic system of governance, led by an elected Executive Chairman (Mayor), legislators, judiciary, and the traditional Emirate Council.

The city’s vision is to promote creativity while maintaining its age-old traditions, preserving heritage arts, and fostering innovations in crafts and folk art entrepreneurship. Bida is committed to supporting the contributions of creativity and the cultural sector as a vital force for its development and sustainability.