Ebonyi State, a steadily developing region in the southeastern part of Nigeria, has not only improved in infrastructure and governance over the years but also in commerce and retail. One of the most visible signs of this progress is the rise of shopping malls and modern supermarkets across the state, especially in the capital city, Abakaliki.
Gone are the days when residents relied solely on traditional open markets for their shopping. Today, Ebonyians and visitors to the state can enjoy convenient, hygienic, and more structured shopping experiences. From grocery stores and wine shops to large-scale malls that house various retail brands, Ebonyi State is quickly becoming a thriving retail hub in the Southeast.
In this post, we will explore some of the major supermarkets and shopping malls that currently operate in Ebonyi State, especially in Abakaliki, which serves as the heart of commercial activity in the state.
🛒 List of Supermarkets in Ebonyi State
1. Roban Stores Abakaliki
Roban Stores is one of the most established and trusted retail brands in the southeastern region of Nigeria. With branches across major cities like Enugu and Owerri, the Roban brand has also made its presence felt in Ebonyi State. The Abakaliki branch offers a modern shopping environment, with wide aisles, ample parking space, and friendly customer service.
Shoppers can get a variety of products here, ranging from groceries, frozen foods, snacks, toiletries, baby items, cosmetics, electronics, to home appliances. Roban Stores also features a bakery and butchery, making it a one-stop destination for many families and working-class individuals in Abakaliki.
2. Everyday Supermarket
Located inside the grand Ebonyi Mega Shopping Mall, Everyday Supermarket is another major player in the Ebonyi retail space. This supermarket chain has branches in multiple states, and their branch in Abakaliki has been particularly well-received.
Everyday Supermarket caters to all categories of shoppers, offering fresh foodstuff, canned goods, beverages, kitchenware, baby products, toiletries, and more. It is known for its clean environment, attentive staff, and strategic positioning inside one of the largest malls in Nigeria.
3. Apexco SuperMarket
Situated at No. 29 Ojeawere Street by Water Works Road, Apexco SuperMarket is well known for its customer-friendly service and quality range of goods. Although not as large as Roban or Everyday Supermarket, Apexco meets the needs of a sizable portion of Abakaliki’s residents.
The supermarket is well-stocked with essential items like packaged foods, toiletries, cosmetics, and other household needs. For residents of that axis of the city, Apexco provides a convenient and accessible shopping destination.
4. Reference Super Store
Located at BG8 Urban Plaza on Gunning Road, Abakaliki, Reference Super Store is another fast-growing supermarket in Ebonyi State. The store offers a wide variety of products, including household essentials, drinks, baby food, cosmetics, and more.
Though the shop is moderately sized, it is particularly appreciated for its affordability, availability of imported goods, and personalized customer service. It’s a common go-to spot for residents looking for imported wines or baby items.
5. Zenith Wine Super Store
For those specifically in search of alcoholic beverages, especially wines and spirits, Zenith Wine Super Store is the top destination in Abakaliki. The shop is located at 85 Old Enugu Road, beside San Diego Hotel in the Kpirikpiri area.
Zenith Wine Super Store is both a wholesale and retail supplier of drinks, serving both individuals and businesses like event planners, hotels, and bars. From high-end imported wines to affordable local options, their collection is wide and varied.
🏬 Shopping Malls in Ebonyi State
1. Ebonyi Mega Shopping Mall
The Ebonyi Mega Shopping Mall is by far the biggest retail development in the state and one of the most ambitious shopping mall projects in Nigeria. Located in Centenary City, Abakaliki, this mall is a symbol of the state’s rising commercial strength.
Officially opened for business in 2021, the mall provides a luxurious and modern shopping experience, featuring a variety of stores under one roof. The complex includes:
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Everyday Supermarket (anchor tenant)
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Fashion and clothing boutiques
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Pax Pharmacy
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Beauty and skincare outlets like Skyfall Spa
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Fine Brothers Electronics
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A multi-screen cinema
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Lounge and restaurants including De Choice
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A fitness center and pastry section
The Ebonyi Mega Mall is not just a shopping complex but a lifestyle destination. It also contributes significantly to employment, offering over 300 jobs directly and indirectly to the local community.
2. Onu Nwambara Junction
Though not a full-fledged mall in the conventional sense, Onu Nwambara Junction in Abakaliki hosts a cluster of shopping outlets and boutiques, making it a mini-shopping hub for many locals.
Here, you can find vendors selling fashion items, electronics, phones, groceries, and even furniture. It serves a vital role in meeting the retail needs of those living in nearby neighborhoods, especially those who may not have easy access to larger malls.
📊 Summary Table of Supermarkets and Shopping Malls in Ebonyi State
Name | Type | Location | Notable Offerings |
---|---|---|---|
Roban Stores | Supermarket | Abakaliki | Groceries, frozen food, electronics, toiletries, bakery, and more |
Everyday Supermarket | Supermarket | Ebonyi Mega Shopping Mall, Abakaliki | Household items, groceries, toiletries, beverages, baby products |
Apexco SuperMarket | Supermarket | 29 Ojeawere Street, Abakaliki | Groceries, household items, beverages |
Reference Super Store | Supermarket | BG8 Urban Plaza, Gunning Road, Abakaliki | Baby products, household items, drinks, personal care |
Zenith Wine Super Store | Wine Store | 85 Old Enugu Road, Abakaliki | Wines, spirits, wholesale and retail distribution |
Ebonyi Mega Shopping Mall | Shopping Mall | Centenary City, Abakaliki | Cinema, supermarket, fashion stores, spa, electronics, restaurants, gym |
Onu Nwambara Junction | Shopping Cluster | Abakaliki | Local shops selling phones, fashion, furniture, groceries |
🌟 The Significance of Modern Shopping in Ebonyi State
The emergence of supermarkets and shopping malls in Ebonyi State signifies more than just commercial growth. It reflects a shift in lifestyle, convenience, and the growing urban culture in Abakaliki and other parts of the state.
Shopping malls like the Ebonyi Mega Mall serve as social and recreational centers. Residents no longer need to travel to cities like Enugu or Port Harcourt for access to a modern mall experience. With stores, cinemas, restaurants, and salons all in one place, people can shop, relax, eat, and socialize within a single environment.
Also, these malls and supermarkets are helping to boost the local economy by providing employment opportunities, supporting local suppliers, and encouraging investments in retail infrastructure.
🏁 Conclusion
Ebonyi State is no longer lagging behind when it comes to retail development. From the imposing Ebonyi Mega Shopping Mall to neighborhood supermarkets like Apexco and Reference Super Store, the state is quickly establishing itself as a convenient and customer-friendly retail zone in the Southeast.
These establishments are playing a key role in improving the quality of life of residents, modernizing the state’s economy, and attracting investments. Whether you are a resident or visitor, shopping in Ebonyi State is now a pleasant and fulfilling experience.
As more businesses spring up and competition drives better services and pricing, consumers in Ebonyi State can look forward to an even more vibrant and efficient retail environment.