Abia State, nestled in southeastern Nigeria, is a dynamic commercial hub with a thriving retail scene. From bustling traditional markets to modern shopping malls and well-stocked supermarkets, the state offers a rich blend of shopping experiences. This guide explores the most notable supermarkets and shopping malls across key cities in Abia—particularly Aba and Umuahia—highlighting their locations, specialties, and unique offerings.
Whether you're a resident, visitor, or investor, understanding Abia’s retail landscape will help you make informed choices about where to shop or set up a business. Let's dive into the retail gems that make Abia a shopper’s paradise.
Supermarkets in Abia State
Supermarkets have become an essential part of the shopping culture in Abia State, catering to the daily needs of households. These stores offer convenience, cleanliness, and a variety of goods under one roof. As of early 2025, Abia is home to over 90 operational supermarkets spread across various towns and cities.
Top Supermarkets in Aba
Aba, the commercial capital of Abia State, has the highest concentration of supermarkets. The city’s growing middle class and fast-paced urban lifestyle have led to a surge in retail outlets.
1. Onyi Ejike Supermarket
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Location: 6B Obohia Road, Aba South
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Specialty: Wines and beverages
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Overview: This compact store offers a well-curated selection of drinks and alcoholic products, making it a favorite for parties and special occasions.
2. Royal Supermarket
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Location: Grace House, 77 Aba-Owerri Road, Abayi, Aba
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Specialty: Household items, foodstuff, cosmetics
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Overview: Known for its range of quality products and affordable prices, Royal Supermarket is ideal for family shopping.
3. The Lion Supermarket
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Location: 222 Ehi Road, Aba South
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Specialty: Toiletries, beauty products, wines
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Overview: A neat and customer-friendly shop with a loyal base, especially among beauty enthusiasts.
4. Nifex Supermarket
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Location: Off Azikiwe Road, Aba
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Specialty: Groceries and general merchandise
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Overview: Founded in 1992, Nifex is one of the oldest supermarkets in Aba, offering wide product choices in a clean environment.
5. Safari Stores & Supermarket
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Location: 52 Brass Street, Aba
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Specialty: General household goods
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Overview: Established in 1981, Safari is known for its reliability and consistent product availability.
Top Supermarkets in Umuahia
Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State, also boasts several reputable supermarkets, offering everything from food items to electronics and cosmetics.
6. Blessed Oasis Supermarket
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Location: 7 Uzuakoli Road, Ahaba Junction
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Specialty: Groceries, wine, cosmetics
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Overview: Blessed Oasis offers a quiet and convenient shopping experience with quality customer service.
7. Ezeigbo Supermarket
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Location: Nkwerre Street, Umuahia
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Specialty: Wholesale and retail grocery
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Overview: This store serves both retailers and individual customers, making it a great spot for bulk purchases.
8. Nic & Angel Superstore
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Location: Warri Street, Umuahia
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Specialty: Groceries and personal care products
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Overview: Known for its modern layout and good customer service, Nic & Angel is popular among young families.
Shopping Malls and Centers in Abia State
While traditional open markets remain dominant, modern shopping malls have started making their mark in Abia State. These malls combine retail with entertainment, providing a comfortable and secure environment for shoppers.
Major Malls in Aba
Aba’s population and commercial drive have made it a prime location for mall development.
1. Aba Mega Mall
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Location: 33B Ekenna GRA, Osisioma Ngwa, Aba
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Features: Retail shops, electronics, fashion stores
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Overview: Often described as the largest shopping mall in southeastern Nigeria, Aba Mega Mall provides an upscale shopping experience and houses several retail outlets and eateries.
2. Nma Shopping Mall
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Location: No. 8 Old Aba Road, Aba South
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Specialty: General merchandise
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Overview: This mid-sized mall caters to a wide audience and includes fashion, accessories, and grocery stores.
3. Uzotex Shopping Centre
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Location: 52 World Bank Road, Aba
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Specialty: Jewelry and Italian shoes
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Overview: A high-end shopping spot for those seeking designer accessories and luxury fashion.
4. Prince & Princess Shopping Plaza
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Location: 10 K Line, Ariaria International Market
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Overview: Situated inside the famous Ariaria market, this plaza combines traditional retail with modern infrastructure.
5. Galadima Shopping Center
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Location: 201 Old Express Road, Uratta, Aba
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Overview: A general-purpose shopping center offering food, fashion, and home goods.
Shopping Malls in Umuahia
While smaller in number compared to Aba, Umuahia has a few modern retail centers serving the city’s residents.
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Umuahia Mall (Planned/Upcoming): As of 2025, proposals are underway to establish a new modern mall in Umuahia, targeting retail investors and residents who want a complete shopping experience within the capital.
Traditional Markets in Abia State
No discussion of shopping in Abia State is complete without highlighting its renowned traditional markets. These markets serve as lifelines for small traders and rural communities, offering everything from fresh produce to clothes and electronics.
1. Ariaria International Market
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Location: Aba
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Specialty: Footwear, leather goods, clothes, electronics
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Overview: Nicknamed the "China of Africa," Ariaria has over 37,000 stalls and exports goods across West Africa.
2. Ekeoha Market
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Location: Aba
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Specialty: Textiles, electronics, fashion
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Overview: One of the busiest textile markets in Nigeria, popular among traders and consumers alike.
3. Umuahia Ultramodern Market
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Location: Ubani-Ibeku, Umuahia North
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Overview: Established to replace the old Umuahia Market, this modern facility offers a more organized and safer shopping environment.
4. Ahia Ndoro
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Location: Ndoro, Ikwuano LGA
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Specialty: Agricultural produce
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Overview: This rural market is an important center for food distribution and trade between Abia and neighboring states.
Summary Table: Supermarkets and Shopping Malls in Abia State
Name | Location | Type | Specialty / Features |
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Onyi Ejike Supermarket | Aba South | Supermarket | Wines, beverages |
Royal Supermarket | Aba, Abayi | Supermarket | Household items, cosmetics |
The Lion Supermarket | Aba South | Supermarket | Toiletries, beauty products |
Nifex Supermarket | Aba | Supermarket | General groceries |
Safari Stores | Aba | Supermarket | Household items |
Blessed Oasis Supermarket | Umuahia | Supermarket | Groceries, cosmetics |
Ezeigbo Supermarket | Umuahia | Supermarket | Bulk sales of foodstuff |
Nic & Angel Superstore | Umuahia | Supermarket | Family grocery and personal care |
Aba Mega Mall | Osisioma Ngwa, Aba | Shopping Mall | Multipurpose, luxury stores, electronics |
Nma Shopping Mall | Aba South | Shopping Mall | Fashion, groceries |
Uzotex Shopping Centre | Aba | Shopping Center | Jewelry, Italian fashion |
Prince & Princess Plaza | Ariaria Market, Aba | Shopping Plaza | Mixed retail, inside Ariaria Market |
Galadima Shopping Center | Uratta, Aba | Shopping Center | Fashion, home goods |
Ariaria Market | Aba | Traditional | Textiles, shoes, electronics |
Ekeoha Market | Aba | Traditional | Clothing, household goods |
Umuahia Ultramodern Market | Umuahia North | Traditional | Modern stalls, general merchandise |
Ahia Ndoro | Ndoro, Ikwuano LGA | Traditional | Agricultural products |
Conclusion
Abia State has cultivated a balanced mix of modern and traditional retail environments. From the structured aisles of Aba Mega Mall to the lively energy of Ariaria Market, the state offers unmatched shopping diversity. Supermarkets serve as reliable points for everyday needs, while malls and traditional markets provide both luxury and affordability.
As urbanization continues and investment in infrastructure grows, Abia’s shopping scene is set to expand further, offering even more choices and better experiences for shoppers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-term resident, the supermarkets and malls of Abia State promise something for everyone.
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