Aba Markets: the Hustle, the Deals, and the Madness

Welcome to Aba, the commercial heartbeat of the Southeast, where business never sleeps and money moves faster than gossip. If you have never heard about Aba markets, you are either new to Nigeria or have been living under a rock.

This is the land of hustlers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and bargain hunters. Aba markets are famous across West Africa for producing quality goods at affordable prices, and if you know how to negotiate, you will leave with a truckload of items at a fraction of the cost.

But Aba is not just about buying and selling; it’s a cultural experience. The energy, the noise, the raw talent of local manufacturers, and the unexpected discoveries make it one of the most exciting places to shop in Nigeria.

Let’s dive into the madness, the magic, and the must-knows about Aba markets!

1. Ariaria International Market: The King of Aba Markets

Location: Along Faulks Road, Aba.

If Aba markets had a president, it would be Ariaria International Market. Known as the China of Africa, this market is a massive business hub where you can find everything from clothing and shoes to electronics, furniture, and leather goods.

Why People Love the Ariaria Market:

✔ It is the biggest market in Aba, meaning wholesale prices are unbeatable.

✔ Aba-made products, especially shoes, bags, and clothes, are exported to Ghana, Cameroon, and even Europe.

✔ If you want something custom-made, Aba artisans can create designer-level products without designer prices.

Pro Tip: Bring cash (many traders don’t always accept transfers), wear comfortable clothes, and bargain hard because if you pay the first price they tell you, “My dear, you have been scammed!”

 

2. Ngwa Road Market: The Textile Paradise

Location: Ngwa Road, Aba.

Fashion designers and tailors know this place like the back of their measuring tape. If you are looking for top-quality fabrics at cheap prices, this is the market for you. From Ankara to lace, chiffon to cashmere, kente to brocade, and every type of textile you can imagine is here.

Why People Love Ngwa Road Market:

✔ Endless variety of fabrics, both locally made and imported.

✔ Perfect for fashion designers, tailors, and boutique owners looking for bulk fabric at wholesale prices.

✔ You can also find sewing accessories like buttons, zippers, threads, and needles at giveaway prices.

Pro Tip: Most sellers give discounts if you buy in bulk. So, team up with friends or business partners for better deals.

3. Cemetery Market: The Shoe Empire

Location: Near Aba Cemetery (don’t let the name scare you!).

Aba is known for its shoe-making industry, and this is where the magic happens. In Cemetery Market, you will find handmade shoes that rival Italian brands but at a price that won’t make your wallet cry. From leather sandals to corporate shoes, sneakers, and high-quality slippers, this market has it all.

Why People Love Cemetery Market:

✔ The best place to buy custom-made shoes in Nigeria.

✔ You can find Aba-made designer replicas that look just as good as international brands.

✔ Great for retailers who want to stock up on shoes at factory prices.

Pro Tip: If you’re ordering custom shoes, bring a sample picture to get exactly what you want.

4. Ekeoha Shopping Center: Aba’s “Boutique” Market

Location: Along Asa Road, Aba.

If you love fashion, beauty products, and imported goods, this is where you should be. Ekeoha Shopping Center is a more organized market where traders sell trendy clothing, perfumes, watches, bags, and cosmetics.

Why People Love Ekeoha Shopping Center:

✔ It is where many boutique owners get their stock.

✔ A mix of Aba-made and imported items, so you have plenty of options.

✔ It is more relaxed than the bigger, crazier markets.

Pro Tip: Walk around before buying. Prices vary from shop to shop.

5. Ahia Ohuru (New Market): The Everyday Market

Location: Ngwa Road Extension, Aba.

Ahia Ohuru, meaning “New Market” in Igbo, is the go-to market for foodstuffs, groceries, and everyday essentials. This is where Aba people buy fresh vegetables, meat, grains, and household items at unbeatable prices.

Why People Love Ahia Ohuru:

✔ Everything is fresh and affordable.

✔ It is a great place to stock up on local food ingredients like palm oil, crayfish, and egusi.

✔ Traders are friendly, and if you speak small Igbo, they might give you a discount!

Pro Tip: Go early in the morning for the freshest produce and best deals.

6. Shopping Tips for Aba Markets

What to Bring:
✔ A big shopping bag (you will buy more than you planned).

✔ Comfortable shoes (you will do a lot of walking).

✔ A shopping list (or you will get distracted and forget what you came for).

✔ Small cash denominations (it is easier to bargain when you have exact amounts).

Market Survival Tips:

✔ Bargain aggressively – Traders expect it, so don’t be shy.

✔ Hold your belongings tightly – Like any big market, there are pickpockets.

✔ Dress casually – Fancy clothes make you look like a “big man,” and traders will increase prices.

✔ Ask locals for directions – Some markets are big enough to get lost in.

Final Thoughts: Aba Markets Are a Shopping Wonderland!

Aba markets are not just a place to buy and sell; they are a symbol of Nigerian creativity, business acumen, and pure hustle spirit. Whether you are looking for affordable fashion, wholesale goods, locally made shoes, fresh foodstuff, or the best textiles, Aba is the ultimate shopping destination.

The beauty of Aba markets is that you don’t have to break the bank to shop like a king. With the right bargaining skills, a little patience, and a good sense of adventure, you’ll leave Aba with bags full of amazing deals and a shopping experience you will never forget.

So, next time someone tells you they got a killer deal on shoes or fabric, don’t be surprised when they say, “Na for Aba I buy am!”