Insight

• Infinity Media
• 7 Min Read

List Of Local Markets In Abia State: Welcome To Abia State

So, you just moved to Abia State? Or maybe you're planning to move soon and you dey find where to buy your tomatoes, ogbono, slippers, second-hand jeans, or even spare parts for that stubborn car of yours? Omo, sit down and grab a chilled bottle of malt, because you’re in for a full-on gist about the local markets in this beautiful southeastern state called Abia.

Now, let’s be real – in Naija, markets are not just about buying and selling. They are cultural centers. They’re where stories are told, slangs are born, bargains are battled for, and yes, where you’ll likely buy more than you budgeted for (thanks to sweet talkers behind every stall). And Abia? Ehn, Abia markets na another level entirely.

Let’s tour this vibrant space together, and by the end, you’ll not only know where to get the best deals but also feel like one of the locals. Are you ready? Let’s go!

1. Ariaria International Market – The “China” of Africa

If you haven't heard of Ariaria, then you never reach! This market is the Beyoncé of all Abia markets. It’s so popular that even people wey never visit Abia know Ariaria. Located in Aba, Ariaria is a commercial juggernaut—like Balogun Market and Computer Village combined, but with more Igbo ginger and hustle.

You want handmade leather shoes? Custom bags? Ankara fabrics? Sound systems? The original fake of the original? This is the market.

What makes Ariaria stand out is not just the size (over 2 million traders, my friend!) but the raw entrepreneurial spirit. People dey manufacture quality shoes here and export them go Ghana, Kenya, even Italy! Na from this market many local brands dey blow. If you wan start your own business, this is your plug.

Hot tip for immigrants:
Don’t go on a Friday if you’re not ready to hustle for space. Ariaria on a Friday is like Oshodi during rush hour. Also, wear comfortable shoes – you go waka tire.

2. Ekeoha Shopping Centre – The Aba Boutique Masterclass

This one is for the fashionistas and fashion lovers. Some call it the “Shopping Centre” but let’s be honest, it’s where real slay queens and kings go to stock up. Located also in Aba, this market is all about fabrics, clothing materials, wigs, accessories, and beauty supplies.

You dey plan wedding? Ekeoha will kit your entire bridal train. You dey start your boutique? This is your headquarters. From lace, brocade, cashmere, to Ankara and ready-to-wear outfits – the options dey scatter brain.

Why you’ll love it:
Clean environment, organized layout, and less “wahala” compared to Ariaria. You can actually window shop without bumping into 50 people in 3 seconds.

3. Ahia Ohuru (New Market) – The Second-Hand Paradise

Now, if you love okrika – aka bend-down-select – Ahia Ohuru is your heaven on earth. No shame in it o, some of the best jeans and jackets I’ve ever worn came from here. Located near Ngwa Road, Aba, this market is a favorite for students, fashionistas on a budget, and those who just like looking unique.

From second-hand designer wear to top-tier kitchen utensils, Ahia Ohuru has something for everybody. And yes, they sell new things too – but the second-hand game na wetin dey reign.

Advice from a seasoned market-goer:
Go early – I mean like 6 am. That’s when you’ll find the “fresh drop” and avoid the crowd. Plus, your bargaining power go dey higher.

4. Cemetery (Eziukwu) Market – Not as Scary as the Name Sounds

I know the name sounds like the market is inside graveyard, but relax! It’s just the area name. This market is for serious buyers looking for bulk stockfish, provisions, groceries, and general household items.

Located around the cemetery area in Aba, it’s a go-to for serious mama-put operators and traders who buy in wholesale. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for your monthly food stock-up, this is where to go.

Pro tip:
Carry your own bag o. The sellers here no dey joke. And don’t flash too much cash unless you want “friendly” escorts.

5. School Road Market – Where Leather Lives

This one is a smaller version of Ariaria but with focus on shoes, bags, and leather products. Aba people sabi leather work die, and School Road Market is another proof. Whether na Italian-look-alike loafers or strong school sandals you dey find, this market go deliver.

If you just moved to Abia and you wan blend with locals without spending all your salary, start here.

6. Nsulu Market – Tailors’ Best Friend

Located in Aba South, Nsulu Market is for those in the fashion or tailoring business. It’s more like a wholesale market for fabrics, linings, trimmings, and everything needed to sew something fabulous.

You’ll find fashion school students here, boutique owners, and “Madam Cut & Sew” dem. And yes, the prices? Way better than Lagos.

7. Umuahia Main Market (Now Ubani-Ibeku Market)

Ah yes, Umuahia people, una no carry last! The new ultramodern market at Ubani-Ibeku replaced the old one, and e fine no be small. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh tomatoes to second-hand phones.

The layout is clean, with good parking, banking services, and actual restrooms (imagine that in a Naija market!). If you’re a JJC in Umuahia, start here before you graduate to the “harder” markets.

8. Alaoji Spare Parts Market – Mechanics’ Disneyland

Do you drive? Do you plan to buy a keke or okada? Then Alaoji, located along Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway, is your go-to for all auto spare parts.

People come from Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Imo to buy parts here. It’s massive, and the options are endless. You’ll find parts for Mercedes, Toyota, and that car brand even Google can’t identify.

Helpful tip:
Go with a trusted mechanic or someone who sabi. The market is huge, and “wayo boys” dey everywhere.

9. Umuchieze Cattle Market – Beef, Goat, Everything

This market is in Umunneochi LGA and na where all the meat magic happens. Cows, goats, and rams come here straight from the North. Whether na for Sallah, wedding, or just Sunday pepper soup, this is where butchers stock up.

You can even bargain for live animals. The price compared to urban markets? Waaay better.

10. Rural Day Markets – Ahia Eke, Ahia Nkwo, Afor Ibeji, etc.

One beautiful thing about Igbo land is the four-day market calendar: Eke, Orie, Afor, Nkwo. And yes, Abia no dey carry last.

In different towns and villages, you’ll find rotating markets based on this calendar. For instance:

• Nkwo Igbere: Household items, crafts.

• Ekeakpara: Palm oil and local goods.

• Afor Ibeji: Livestock and grains.

• Eke Isuochi: Textiles and clothes.

These ones are more cultural than commercial, but you’ll find fresh and cheap items. Plus, it’s a chance to gist with locals and learn real Abia life.

11. Good Morning Market – Early Bird Things

If you're one of those 5 am, let’s-get-it people, Aba's Good Morning Market will be your new best friend. It opens very early – like 4:30 to 5:00 am – and by 10 am, sellers are already packing.

Fresh vegetables, bread, eggs, provisions, and even phone accessories – all dey here.

12. Other Honorable Mentions:

• Uratta Integrated Market: A great spot for industrial and local produce.

• Osisioma Foam Market: Foam products like mattress, cushion, etc.

• Ochendo Shoe Market: Another leather hotspot.

• Ohiya Market: Automotive parts in Umuahia South.

Conclusion – So Where Should You Go First?

Look, there’s no one-size-fits-all. If you dey into fashion, start with Ekeoha or Nsulu. Want to eat fresh and cheap? Ahia Ohuru or any day market go serve you. Need to fix car or bike? Alaoji and Ohiya are your destinations.

But wherever you go, go with an open mind, comfortable shoes, and a good sense of humor. Abia markets will challenge you, teach you, and make you laugh all in one day.

And as a new immigrant, these markets are where you truly become part of the community. You’ll meet kind sellers, playful touts, and fellow shoppers who’ll gist with you like you’ve known each other forever.

So, which market you go first? Tell me in the comments!

Summary Table:

Need more tips or want me to help plan your market run? Just shout. Abia no dey carry last!