For this weekend getaway, Ordinary People Magazine is taking you to the bustling city of Akwa Ibom, showcasing the very best places to visit, top tourist attractions, local cuisines, and more.
The first time I visited, it was meant to be just a few days to shake off writer's block. But the beauty of the place was so captivating that I ended up staying for a full week. With countless sights to see, local and exotic dishes to try, and rich cultures to explore, it felt like there was never enough time.
By the end of my stay, I was completely enchanted by the city. As someone who loves nature and history, I left feeling as if a part of me stayed behind. The wealth of history, art, culture, and natural beauty stirred a deep wanderlust for more. Let’s start exploring!
Fun Historical Facts About Nigeria’s Best-Kept Secret: Akwa Ibom State
Akwa Ibom, one of Nigeria's 36 states, boasts a population of over 5 million people. Named after the Qua Iboe River, its capital is Uyo, home to about 5,000 residents. Established in 1987 from the former Cross River State, it now holds the title of Nigeria’s leading oil and gas-producing state.
Over time, Akwa Ibom has become a hub for both local and international trade, thanks to its rich variety of products. Interestingly, in some parts of the state, dog meat (locally known as 404 meat) is considered a delicacy, with only specific breeds enjoyed for their unique taste.
Tourist Attractions In Akwa Ibom
there are two places you have to visit as a tourist when you get to Akwa Ibom
Bridge of No Return: The Tales of the Dark Old.
Our adventure led us first to the bridge of no return. A floating jetty in Ikot Abasi was built by the Europeans to transport slaves from there to the waiting ships in the open sea and subsequently to Europe and other Western countries. It was first built in the year 1795.
It has three major underground holding cells used for imprisoning very stubborn slaves before transporting them to the ships.
with a capacity for holding about 30 people per cell but we were told that the slave traders forced in over 150 people in each leading to future suffering and subsequent death of the slaves who were then taken out and their bodies dumped in the water.
We were further told by our travel guide that the bridge was nicknamed so because anyone who crossed that bridge then was never seen or heard from again. They were not even allowed to look back once they stepped foot on the bridge.
Thankfully you can go, stand and even cross the bridge today and return safely to your loved ones.
The Amalgamation House: The BirthPlace of Nigeria
Next stop; The amalgamation house,was the height of my day. I mean we as Nigerians were taught about the amalgamation of the northern and Southern protectorates that made us one Nigeria by Sir Fredrick Lord Lugard but somehow I always thought of it as a myth.
I never really believed it until I was standing in the very place history told us it happened.
As our travel guide took us around the entire ground, I noticed that the compound contains several buildings. The amalgamation house, which happens to be in ruins, has pictures of Lord Lugard hanging on the wall along with that of the picture of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. When we asked, our guide explained that the former president’s picture hung there to mark the 100 years of amalgamation as he was the president in power during that period.
The old building doubled as Lord Lugard's office, as it also contained some old chairs, tables, and communication gadgets with a microphone common in those days, a stamp stand, a safe for pounds, and an alarm cash box.
Entertainment and Leisure
Akwa Ibom is not just rich in culture and history but also brimming with opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.
Ibeno Beach
Ibeno Beach is the longest sand beach in West Africa and very easily one of the most beautiful places in Uyo. Providing endless natural facilities for the most fun-filled activities such as volleyball, boating sports, camel riding, etc. Sitting or strolling along the shores would give you a whole new perspective about life. At least it gave me!
Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Center
As a modern day entertainment and fast rising tourist attraction center, Ibom Tropicana can comfortably boast of being the most fun place in Uyo .With a mall and an active cinema fun. It also has a theme park with both indoors and outdoors games. We spent the afternoon jumping from one game to the other, chilling at the lounge, and the evening watching movies at the Silverbird cinema while munching away at our snacks.
Best Places to Eat in Akwa Ibom
From the streets to the most refined dining, Akwa Ibom offers the very best in meals. it somehow manages to capture both its local and international culinary skills with all of its robust and rich cultural/historical diversity.
Popular Akwa Ibom Foods
As a food lover, trust me when I say that you don’t need a tourist guide to point you in the right direction. The aroma of the meal coming from the local kitchen is doing an excellent job of it already. And after working up an appetite soaking up all the historical sites in Akwa Ibom, the mouth-watering scent of some popular street foods will be a welcomed distraction.. Here are my list of must try
Edikang Ikong : A local delicacy. It is a thick soup made of vegetables like waterleaf,Ugu (pumpkin leaf) and assorted meat to taste.
Ekpang Nkukwo : Also a traditional delicacy. It is prepared with cocoyam and little water-yam. With its flavor and heavenly mouth-watering taste, its meal served in many local kitchens and relished by many.
Coconut water: The state being very close to water makes coconut one of their most consumed food. The water is absolutely delicious and very refreshing. You can get a hawker to sell and crack it open for you to enjoy the refreshing water on a sunny day giving you that touch of fancy on your holiday for a small token
Fine Dining
If you are the type that loves to indulge in a little fancy and bougie,or seeking to share a meal with your significant other in a romantic place, then here is a little something for you.
Uyai Cuisine: Standing out as one of Akwa Ibom best, this elegant and graceful diner offers customers an array of varied mouthwatering dishes. It serves both local and international dishes and somehow manages to deliver. And their customer service is second to none.
Le Goshen African Dishes Restaurant: This charming restaurant Located in the town of Oron offers a menu that covers a large variety of customers, ranging from vegetarians to customers with strict Dietary restrictions. It offers a more relaxed and pocket friendly atmosphere without compromising quality. If you are on a budget, then this is for you.
P.S. You should try out their garri and white soup with protein,the taste is everything!
Dining with the waves
If you think you have experienced it all, wait until you have tried dining by the seaside restaurants. The cool evening breeze, the serene atmosphere, and heavenly view combined to give you the perfect tropical experience.
La Cucina Ibeno It provides a chic, relaxed ambiance where you can savor delectable seafood and cocktails while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With its stylish decor and beachfront setting, the dinner is the perfect place for a leisurely meal on a lazy evening.
Language
The Akwa Ibom language is as diverse as it is exciting. A well-tailored fabric that reflects the intricate rich history and ethnic group of the state. It is home to over 20 languages but has Anaang, Ibibio and Igbo as its major languages.
English and pidgin English are other largely languages spoken there, Proper English by the educated few and pidgin by the not-so-educated locals in a bid to communicate with the tourists and nonlocals.
Cultural Etiquette: Learning a few words or phrases in Ibibio such as sosoñò (thank you), Amedi (welcome), kaa di (Goodbye) will greatly enhance your interaction with the locals and even strike some form of admiration and friendship with them.
Best Hotels To Stay in Akwa Ibom
Rated among the best hotels in Akwa Ibom, this five-star hotel located at Raffia City Abak Ikot Ekpene is one of luxury and opulence. With its State-of-the-art facilities, elegant rooms and outdoor pool, Four Points manages to deftly blend International sophistication with the traditional Akwa Ibom hospitality. Trust me, a stay there is money well spent.
A charming hotel in a cozy environment, the 4-star hotel offers affordable and budget-friendly yet quality rooms, excellent customer service, and around-the-clock service. The Ann’s Hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable stay with convenient access to local attractions and amenities.
Conclusion
Nigeria is full of fascinating destinations, but Akwa Ibom should be at the top of your list. Have you visited Akwa Ibom before? How was your experience?
Comments