Spotlighting nine Nigerian markets!
Nigeria is home to some very big markets from Onitsha Main Market to Zaki Biam Yam Market. Today we will be spotlighting nine of them.
Come along with us as we explore this part of our culture:
1. Main Market, Onitsha
Onitsha Main Market in Anambra is not only the largest in Nigeria, but it is also one of the largest markets in Africa. This market dates back as far as the 16th century and is one of the places where trade barter was first practised.
What’s interesting is that the building that made up the main market used to be the largest in Nigeria before it was destroyed during the civil war in 1968.
Onitsha Main Market is mainly known for the sale of imported products like jewellery, clothing, household materials and so on.
2. Ladipo Market, Mushin
Ladipo is an international auto-parts market in Mushin with Nigerians in constant patronage, thanks to its “perfect” roads. The market got its name from Ladipo street which is located in Mushin. It was formerly known as Aguiyi Ironsi Market.
As of the time of writing this, Ladipo is no longer predominantly for auto parts, it now accommodates the sale of cars too.
3. Balogun Market or Lagos Island Market
The one and only Balogun market is located on Lagos island a.k.a Isale Eko. The market is segmented according to the different products being sold.
Asides from having to fight off the many market sellers who may try to touch you indiscriminately and being wary of pickpockets, everything about the Balogun market (size, price of goods, quality) is nice.
4. Bodija Market
Bodija market is located in Ibadan, very close to the Oyo-Ogbomosho-Ilorin interstate road network. It is mainly known for wholesale and retail of foodstuff and cattle. The stalls for different food items are neatly arranged to maintain order in the busy market.
Fun fact about Bodija? It used to be a fighting arena as its name implies in Yoruba.
5. Zaki Biam Yam Market
Zaki Biam Yam market in Benue state is one of the biggest yam markets in Nigeria. Inside it, you will find the freshest yam produce arranged in heaps, and outside it, you will find trucks that are on the go for distributing the yams to different parts of the country.
The youths in the community make extra bucks from hauling yam from the markets to the waiting trucks.
6. Ariaria Market
Ariaria is an international market in Aba, Abia State and it is mainly known for the sale of high-quality shoemaking and leatherwork.
Established in 1976, Ariaria International Market is one of the largest shoe-making markets in West Africa with about two million traders.
7. Computer village
Computer village, which is located in Otigba, is the biggest IT hub in Nigeria. It is home to hundreds of gadgets and accessories shops.
If you’re ever in need of a phone or laptop repairer, then Computer Village is the place to be.
8. Alaba International Market
Formerly known as Mile 2, then Mile 12, and now Alaba International Market, this market is popularly known for distributing and selling electronics and appliances.
Located in Ojo, Lagos state, Alaba Market also deals with the repair of faulty home appliances making an avenue for engineers and electronic vendors to transact easily. The market is open every day except on Sundays and public holidays.
9. Kasuwar Kwari Kano
Kasuwar Kwari is a textile market in Kano that is patronized not only by Nigerians but other West Africans. The market is renowned for their quality handmade tie and dye.
From Guinea brocade, Ankara textiles, and George materials to English lace, Kasuwar is your one-stop shop for all.
#TraditionalValues is a segment documenting the beauty of indigenous culture. This edition highlights nine of the biggest markets in Nigeria.
