Aba, often dubbed the "Japan of Africa," is the commercial nerve center of Abia State in southeastern Nigeria. With a population of over 500,000 people and a long-standing reputation as a trade and industrial hub, Aba has transformed from traditional street markets into a city bustling with modern supermarkets and shopping malls. While the Ariaria International Market remains iconic, newer retail establishments like Aba Mega Mall and other modern supermarkets now cater to an evolving consumer culture driven by convenience, hygiene, and variety.
In this blog post, we delve into the top supermarkets and shopping malls in Aba, highlighting their offerings, locations, contact information, and why they are key players in Aba's retail space. Whether you're a resident, visitor, or investor, this comprehensive guide helps you navigate the growing landscape of retail businesses in Aba.
Supermarkets in Aba
Supermarkets are becoming increasingly popular in Aba, offering a more organized, clean, and convenient alternative to the city’s traditional open-air markets. The city currently boasts over 50 registered supermarkets that serve diverse customer needs.
1. Havana Supermarkets
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Location: 238 Aba-Owerri Road, Abayi, Aba
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Phone: +234 809 307 6205
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Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays)
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Services: In-store shopping and same-day delivery
Havana Supermarkets is a leading grocery and general retail outlet in Aba. It stocks a wide range of products including food items, electronics, household items, beverages, and sports gear. Known for its organized layout and customer service, it is a preferred choice for middle-class families and professionals.
2. Foodking and Supermarket
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Location: 221 Aba-Owerri Road, Aba
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Phone: +234 806 300 0196
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Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays)
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Services: In-store shopping and same-day delivery
Foodking is another reputable supermarket in Aba offering a mix of local and international groceries. Customers can find daily household essentials, dairy products, snacks, toiletries, and even kitchen appliances. While some reviews mention pricing concerns, the store is appreciated for product availability and strategic location.
3. C.U.N. Supermarkets
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Location: 6 Park Road, Aba
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Phone: +234 804 610 4337
C.U.N. Supermarkets has carved a niche in the city as a reliable source of fresh groceries, beverages, baby products, and home essentials. Their customer service is commendable and the store layout makes for easy navigation and shopping.
4. IMO Unique Supermarkets
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Location: 2A Asa Road, Aba
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Phone: +234 703 778 5681
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Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays)
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Services: In-store shopping, delivery, and same-day service
IMO Unique is appreciated for its extensive inventory, ranging from groceries to personal care items. It is particularly favored by young professionals and urban families looking for fast and reliable shopping experiences.
5. Royal Supermarket
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Location: Grace House, 77 Aba-Owerri Road, Abayi, Aba
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Phone: +234 813 374 7464
Royal Supermarket has made a name for itself by offering quality and original goods. Whether you're in search of beauty products, kitchenware, or imported groceries, Royal delivers. Their authenticity and transparent pricing make them a trusted name.
6. Safari Stores & Supermarket
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Location: 52 Brass Street, Aba
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Phone: 082-227674
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Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
With a large floor space and impressive inventory, Safari Stores offers a broad shopping experience, covering groceries, packaged foods, and household items. The store’s long operating hours are particularly beneficial for working-class individuals.
Shopping Malls in Aba
While Aba is more known for its bustling open-air markets, the city is gradually embracing modern shopping malls. These malls provide not just retail therapy but also leisure, dining, and business opportunities.
1. Aba Mega Mall
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Developer: Greenfield Assets Limited
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Location: Osisioma Expressway, Aba
Aba Mega Mall is a revolutionary retail development in Aba and is poised to become the largest mall in West Africa upon completion. The project is being built in phases and features over 100,000 square meters of retail space, a multiplex cinema, banks, a hotel, and even a dedicated transportation system. With over 1,000 shops already completed in the first phase, it aims to provide jobs for over 10,000 people and attract local and international shoppers.
2. Ariaria International Market
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Location: Ariaria, Aba
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Establishment: 1976
Though not a shopping mall in the traditional sense, Ariaria International Market is worth mentioning. Known as the “China of Africa,” it features over 37,000 shops and is particularly famous for leatherworks, including shoes and bags. The market draws traders from across West Africa, and despite its informal structure, it functions as a mega retail and manufacturing center.
3. Galadima Shopping Center
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Location: 201 Old Express Road, Uratta, Aba
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Phone: 0806 363 2462
Galadima Shopping Center offers a mix of retail spaces and stalls, featuring vendors who sell electronics, clothing, mobile accessories, and local foodstuff. Its location near Uratta makes it an accessible choice for residents on the outskirts of Aba.
4. Nma Shopping Mall
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Location: No. 8 Old Aba Road, Aba South
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Phone: +234 84 611123
Though relatively modest in size, Nma Shopping Mall contributes to Aba’s growing list of modern retail centers. It hosts boutiques, grocery stores, and electronics vendors.
5. Prince & Princess Shopping Plaza
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Location: 10 K Line, Ariaria International Market
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Phone: 0803 601 6584
This shopping plaza is strategically located inside Ariaria Market and focuses on fashion, home goods, and accessories. It brings a sense of organization to the chaotic yet productive nature of Ariaria Market.
6. Uzotex Shopping Centre
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Location: 52 World Bank Road, Aba
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Phone: 0703 852 5254
Uzotex Shopping Centre specializes in luxury fashion, jewelry, and designer shoes. It caters to the upscale clientele of Aba who prefer Italian fashion and high-end accessories.
Summary Table of Major Supermarkets and Shopping Malls in Aba
Name | Type | Location | Services Offered | Phone Number |
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Havana Supermarkets | Supermarket | 238 Aba-Owerri Rd, Abayi | In-store, Same-day delivery | +234 809 307 6205 |
Foodking & Supermarket | Supermarket | 221 Aba-Owerri Rd, Aba | In-store, Same-day delivery | +234 806 300 0196 |
C.U.N. Supermarkets | Supermarket | 6 Park Rd, Aba | In-store | +234 804 610 4337 |
IMO Unique Supermarkets | Supermarket | 2A Asa Rd, Aba | In-store, Same-day delivery | +234 703 778 5681 |
Royal Supermarket | Supermarket | 77 Aba-Owerri Rd, Abayi | In-store | +234 813 374 7464 |
Safari Stores & Supermarket | Supermarket | 52 Brass Street, Aba | In-store | 082-227674 |
Aba Mega Mall | Shopping Mall | Osisioma Expressway, Aba | Retail, Cinema, Hotel, Transport | N/A |
Ariaria International Market | Open Market | Ariaria, Aba | Fashion, Shoes, Leather, Electronics | N/A |
Galadima Shopping Center | Shopping Mall | 201 Old Express Rd, Uratta | Retail Stalls (Electronics, Clothing) | 0806 363 2462 |
Nma Shopping Mall | Shopping Mall | No. 8 Old Aba Rd, Aba South | Boutiques, Grocery, Electronics | +234 84 611123 |
Prince & Princess Plaza | Shopping Mall | 10 K Line, Ariaria Market | Fashion, Household, Accessories | 0803 601 6584 |
Uzotex Shopping Centre | Shopping Mall | 52 World Bank Rd, Aba | Jewelry, Italian Shoes | 0703 852 5254 |
Final Thoughts
Aba’s retail sector is a fascinating blend of traditional and modern shopping experiences. The city's supermarkets cater to consumers who desire comfort, cleanliness, and a wide selection of goods, while shopping malls provide a complete experience with dining, entertainment, and shopping under one roof. From the expansive Ariaria Market to the ambitious Aba Mega Mall project, the retail landscape in Aba is expanding and diversifying at a rapid pace.
As Aba continues to grow as a commercial hub, the retail sector is expected to witness more investments and innovations. Whether you are shopping for daily groceries, designer wear, or electronics, Aba has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Aba or just looking to explore new shopping spots in the city, this guide gives you a head start on where to go for quality, variety, and value.