Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State in North-Central Nigeria, is fast emerging as one of the region’s most promising urban centers. Known for its agricultural roots, growing political significance, and proximity to Abuja, Lafia is experiencing notable urban development. One of the most visible signs of this development is the rising presence of supermarkets and shopping malls in the city.
As more residents demand convenience, variety, and quality, supermarkets and shopping centers are becoming central to everyday life. From local markets transitioning into more structured retail spaces to modern plazas bringing the Lagos or Abuja mall experience to Lafia, the city is gradually redefining its retail culture.
In this guide, we explore the major supermarkets and shopping malls in Lafia, highlighting what they offer, where they are located, and why they are becoming important to both locals and visitors.
Leading Supermarkets in Lafia
Supermarkets in Lafia cater to a wide range of customers, from those doing everyday grocery shopping to those seeking international brands, household items, and personal care products. Below are the most notable options:
1. Benitex Supermarket
Benitex Supermarket is one of the leading retail stores in Lafia. Located off Makurdi-Jos Road, behind the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office, this supermarket is known for quality products, courteous staff, and a clean shopping environment.
Whether you're looking for fresh produce, household cleaning supplies, imported snacks, or personal hygiene products, Benitex delivers. The store is popular among professionals and families for its spacious layout and reliable stock of premium goods.
Highlight: Availability of imported brands and excellent customer service.
2. Maidunama Plaza
Though more of a hybrid retail center, Maidunama Plaza serves as one of Lafia’s most reliable grocery hubs. Located near Stadium Junction, at Bukan Sidi Primary School along Jos Road, this plaza features multiple small retail units, including a well-stocked grocery store.
The plaza is especially useful for residents looking for basic food items, packaged goods, beverages, and some fresh produce. Its extended hours (8 AM to 10 PM) and delivery services make it particularly convenient for busy shoppers.
Highlight: Delivery service and central location in the Bukan Sidi area.
3. Halizee Supermarket
Halizee is a smaller but reputable store located on Yusuf Musa Street in Lafia. It caters to the everyday shopper and offers a mix of general household goods, groceries, snacks, and affordable clothing.
Though not as large as others, Halizee earns customer loyalty through consistent pricing, a neighborhood-friendly approach, and strategic location near residential quarters.
Highlight: Family-friendly with budget-conscious product offerings.
4. Femeko Supermarket
Femeko is one of the newer names in Lafia’s growing retail scene. Located within the city, it offers a mix of groceries, home essentials, beverages, and confectionery. Customers often praise the store for its reliability and ease of access.
Femeko is ideal for shoppers who want to avoid the stress of open markets while still getting value for their money.
Highlight: Good range of products and clean environment.
🏬 Top Shopping Malls and Plazas in Lafia
Lafia may not yet have mega malls like those in Abuja or Lagos, but its shopping centers and plazas are evolving. These spaces are providing residents with access to retail variety, tech gadgets, fashion outlets, eateries, and service providers.
Here’s a look at the most popular malls and shopping complexes in the city:
1. Lafia City Mall
Located at a central point in Lafia, the Lafia City Mall offers a modern shopping experience. While relatively new and still developing, it is home to several fashion boutiques, electronic stores, restaurants, and a few service-based shops such as salons and phone repair outlets.
Its clean design and growing list of tenants make it a place to watch in Lafia’s retail evolution.
Highlight: Mix of lifestyle stores, dining options, and modern aesthetics.
2. Lafia Ultra Modern Market
Don’t be fooled by the term “market”—this facility combines the best of traditional and contemporary retail. Located within the city center, the Ultra Modern Market is a government-built initiative aimed at transforming market commerce.
The facility includes organized stalls and small shops offering groceries, fashion accessories, hardware, and cosmetics. Amenities such as a banking hall, security services, and public restrooms improve the shopping experience compared to older market structures.
Highlight: A structured marketplace with modern facilities.
3. Maikudi Plaza
Strategically located beside Bukan Sidi Primary School near Stadium Junction, Maikudi Plaza is a shopping and business center. While not a mall in the conventional sense, its layout and tenant mix make it function like one.
It hosts shops that sell phones, mobile accessories, home electronics, as well as movie and media content. Its mix of retail and service providers makes it a busy hub for young adults and tech enthusiasts.
Highlight: Go-to place for phones, gadgets, and tech support.
4. Shopping Plaza (Makurdi - Jos Road)
This shopping complex sits along the busy Makurdi-Jos Road corridor and is home to a diverse group of retailers. Its offerings include general merchandise, foodstuff, drinks, electronics, and accessories.
Though not as modern as Lafia City Mall, it has become a crucial commercial center due to its accessible location and the variety of shops available.
Highlight: Strategic roadside location and a broad product range.
📊 Summary Table: Supermarkets & Shopping Malls in Lafia
| Name | Type | Location | Key Offerings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benitex Supermarket | Supermarket | Behind CBN, Off Makurdi-Jos Road, Lafia | Premium groceries, hygiene products, imports |
| Maidunama Plaza | Hybrid/Supermarket | Stadium Junction, Bukan Sidi, Jos Road | Grocery store, delivery services, multiple shops |
| Halizee | Supermarket | Yusuf Musa Street, Lafia | Household goods, snacks, affordable clothing |
| Femeko Supermarket | Supermarket | Lafia (exact location varies by branch) | Groceries, beverages, home essentials |
| Lafia City Mall | Shopping Mall | Central Lafia | Fashion, electronics, salons, restaurants |
| Lafia Ultra Modern Market | Market/Mall | Lafia city center | Clothes, groceries, hardware, formal structure |
| Maikudi Plaza | Shopping Plaza | Stadium Junction, Bukan Sidi | Phones, electronics, movie content, accessories |
| Shopping Plaza (Makurdi Rd) | Shopping Plaza | Makurdi - Jos Road | General goods, foodstuff, accessories |
🛍️ Why Retail Growth in Lafia Matters
Lafia's expanding retail infrastructure is more than just a sign of development—it plays a critical role in improving the local economy. Here’s why:
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Job Creation: Each supermarket and mall employs dozens of people, from sales clerks to cleaners, drivers, and security personnel.
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Convenience: Modern retail outlets reduce the stress of traditional open-market shopping. Shoppers can find goods faster, avoid haggling, and enjoy a clean, safe environment.
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Economic Development: Retail spaces attract investment. A thriving mall or supermarket improves surrounding property value and attracts further infrastructure like ATMs, banks, and internet cafes.
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Social Impact: Malls and plazas often become social spaces, bringing families and friends together. In cities like Lafia where recreational options are limited, malls fill the gap with food courts, lounges, and events.
✨ Final Thoughts
The supermarket and shopping mall scene in Lafia is developing steadily, laying the groundwork for a modern urban experience in the heart of Nasarawa State. While it may not yet rival Nigeria's bigger cities, Lafia offers functional, convenient, and increasingly upscale retail options for its residents.
From quick grocery runs at Benitex to gadget shopping at Maikudi Plaza or family outings at Lafia City Mall, the city is slowly becoming a hub where traditional meets modern. If you're a resident or just visiting, exploring these retail spots gives you a glimpse into Lafia’s promising future.
