Imo State, a vital component of Nigeria's southeast geopolitical zone, is known for its industrious people, vibrant commerce, and strong cultural traditions. The state, with Owerri as its capital, is blessed with numerous local markets that serve as essential economic lifelines, supporting trade, commerce, and agriculture.
These markets, scattered across urban and rural communities, are not merely trading spaces but also cultural melting pots where people converge to buy, sell, socialize, and celebrate their heritage. From bustling city markets in Owerri to traditional village markets in Mbaise and Orlu, the market system in Imo State reflects the pulse of the local economy.
In this blog post, we present a detailed overview of major local markets in Imo State and their respective addresses, including the goods they specialize in and their cultural significance. This guide is a valuable resource for business investors, entrepreneurs, traders, residents, and tourists eager to explore the dynamic marketplace landscape of Imo State.
1. Eke Ukwu Owerri Market – Owerri Municipal
Address: Douglas Road, Owerri Municipal, Imo State.
Formerly the largest traditional market in Owerri, Eke Ukwu Owerri held great significance before its demolition in 2017. Although the physical structure has been removed, the market's spirit persists in various forms within the capital city. Some of the displaced traders have since moved to New Market, Relief Market, and other emerging trading points.
Before its demolition, the market was the heartbeat of Owerri's economy, offering an extensive range of goods from agricultural produce, clothing, electronics, to household goods. It also served as a central place for socialization and cultural interactions among the locals.
2. Nkwo Owerri Market (New Market) – Owerri North
Address: Along Egbu Road, Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State.
Nkwo Owerri Market, popularly referred to as New Market, has now taken over as the busiest market in Owerri. Located along the busy Egbu Road, it serves thousands of traders and customers daily. The market operates every day but witnesses peak activities on 'Nkwo' traditional market days.
It is a hub for various goods, including fresh foodstuff, textiles, electronic gadgets, building materials, and household items. Traders from nearby communities and states visit the market for both retail and wholesale purchases, making it a significant commercial center in Imo State.
3. Relief Market – Owerri North
Address: Egbu Road Extension, Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State.
Relief Market is situated near the New Market along the Egbu Road axis. It is a prominent shopping destination that serves the residents of Owerri and its surroundings.
Known for its variety of goods such as foodstuff, groceries, clothes, electrical items, kitchenware, and building materials, Relief Market is well-structured and more organized compared to some other local markets. Its ease of access and cleanliness make it popular among city dwellers.
4. Eke Onunwa Market – Owerri Municipal
Address: Near Tetlow Road, Owerri Municipal, Imo State.
Eke Onunwa Market is one of the oldest and culturally significant markets in Owerri. Though smaller than the demolished Eke Ukwu, it remains a vital part of the city's commerce.
It is strategically located near Tetlow Road and offers mainly fresh produce, vegetables, traditional herbs, and local crafts. The market is especially busy on 'Eke' days and serves as a vital link between rural farmers and urban consumers.
5. Orie Uvuru Market – Aboh Mbaise
Address: Uvuru Community, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State.
Located in the heart of Aboh Mbaise, Orie Uvuru Market operates on 'Orie' days, in line with Igbo traditional market days. This rural market is a melting pot of fresh agricultural produce, traditional herbal products, livestock, and local dishes.
Villagers, traders, and farmers from neighboring communities flock to the market, which doubles as a social gathering and cultural meeting point for the Mbaise people.
6. Nkwo Mbaise Market – Ahiazu Mbaise
Address: Along Mbaise-Umuahia Road, Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State.
Nkwo Mbaise is a large and prominent rural market that operates on 'Nkwo' days. It is well-known for its bulk agricultural produce, including cassava, yams, plantains, palm oil, and other food items.
The market also attracts artisans, cloth vendors, and livestock sellers from across the Mbaise axis. For farmers, it is a strategic place to offload produce to buyers who travel from urban areas in search of fresh farm products.
7. Eke Ahiara Market – Ahiazu Mbaise
Address: Ahiara Town, Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State.
Operating on 'Eke' days, Eke Ahiara Market is another traditional marketplace rich in cultural heritage. It is a one-stop destination for foodstuff, local herbs, palm oil, fabrics, and household essentials.
Beyond trading, the market serves as a center for community festivals, traditional dances, and cultural ceremonies, reflecting the vibrant cultural identity of the people of Ahiara.
8. Nkwo Nwangele Market – Nwangele
Address: Umunakara, Nwangele Local Government Area, Imo State.
Nkwo Nwangele Market is a significant market in the Nwangele axis, strategically located along the Orlu-Okigwe Road. Operating on 'Nkwo' days, it specializes in farm produce, garri, palm oil, native herbs, fish, and various local crafts.
It is also a major market for palm produce and contributes to the palm oil economy in the state.
9. Orlu International Market – Orlu
Address: Owerri-Orlu Road, Orlu, Imo State.
Orlu International Market stands out as one of the largest and most organized markets in Imo State. Located in Orlu, this market is a booming commercial center for textiles, electronics, spare parts, building materials, cosmetics, and household items.
It is a daily market but is busiest on traditional 'Nkwo' days. The market attracts traders and buyers from neighboring states such as Anambra, Abia, and Rivers.
10. Mgbidi Market – Oru West
Address: Mgbidi Town Center, Oru West Local Government Area, Imo State.
Mgbidi Market is a major rural market that operates every four days, adhering to the traditional Igbo market cycle. It is renowned for its thriving trade in cassava, garri, palm produce, plantains, yams, livestock, and handcrafted products.
It plays a crucial role in supporting rural livelihoods and connecting local farmers to larger markets within and outside the state.
11. Afor Umuaka Market – Njaba
Address: Umuaka Community, Njaba Local Government Area, Imo State.
Afor Umuaka Market is a vibrant traditional market operating on 'Afor' days. It is known for its diverse range of goods such as agricultural produce, livestock, seafood, fabrics, shoes, and household wares.
The market also serves as a cultural center where festivals and communal events are celebrated, drawing visitors from across the Njaba region and beyond.
12. Nkwo Ihiagwa Market – Owerri West
Address: Ihiagwa Town, Owerri West Local Government Area, Imo State.
Located within the university town of Ihiagwa, home to the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Nkwo Ihiagwa Market operates on 'Nkwo' days. It is a relatively small but significant market serving both the academic community and residents.
The market specializes in foodstuff, vegetables, and general household items, providing affordable essentials for students and locals.
Conclusion
Imo State boasts a rich network of local markets that sustain the socio-economic life of its people. From urban commercial hubs to rural agrarian markets, these trading centers are the arteries through which the state's commerce, culture, and traditions flow.
For businesses, investors, and policymakers, these markets represent vast opportunities in agriculture, logistics, trade, and culture. Improving the infrastructure, security, and hygiene of these markets can further unlock their potential, fostering growth and creating jobs across Imo State.
Whether you are a trader, tourist, or resident, exploring these markets offers you a glimpse into the vibrant economy and cultural wealth of Imo State.
