Kwara State, located in the North-Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria, is well known for its rich culture, educational institutions, and peaceful environment. Over the years, it has experienced notable growth in urban infrastructure, including the emergence of modern supermarkets and shopping malls that cater to the evolving needs of residents and visitors alike.
From groceries and fashion to electronics and personal care products, these retail centers offer convenience and comfort, with some even combining entertainment options for a complete shopping experience. In this blog post, we explore the most popular supermarkets and shopping malls in Kwara State, especially in its capital city, Ilorin.
Supermarkets in Kwara State
Supermarkets have changed how people shop in Kwara. They offer a clean, organized, and convenient way to purchase essential goods and enjoy modern customer service. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best-known supermarkets in the state:
1. Ace Supermarket
Ace Supermarket is more than just a place to buy groceries — it's a modern shopping complex that combines multiple lifestyle experiences under one roof. Located along Unity Road in Ilorin, it’s a favorite among middle- and upper-class residents.
It includes not only a well-stocked supermarket but also a bakery, a lounge, a children’s park, a photo studio, and even a games arcade. The variety of sections makes it ideal for both family shopping and leisure. Whether you're looking for organic foods, imported goods, or everyday essentials, Ace Supermarket has a wide array of products for everyone.
2. Peculiar Grace Supermarket
This supermarket is situated in the Olorunsogo Area of Ilorin and is one of the largest stores in that environment. It serves as a go-to spot for household items, consumables, and toiletries.
Peculiar Grace Supermarket has earned its reputation for stocking affordable but high-quality items. It’s particularly popular with families and small business owners who buy in bulk.
3. M & G Supermarket
Located near Oja Oba, M & G Supermarket offers a mix of groceries, baby products, beverages, and cosmetics. One of its strengths is its ability to balance quality with affordability. The supermarket is always bustling, especially in the evenings when customers finish work and stop by to pick up essentials.
4. House of Czer Supermarket
This store is located in the Kulende-Sango axis of Ilorin and is known for its efficient delivery service across Kwara State. They offer a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, and beverages, as well as frozen food and general provisions. The store is particularly popular among health-conscious customers and young adults who prefer ready-to-eat options and quick access to food staples.
5. Gold Divine Supermarket & Store
Gold Divine Supermarket, located around Gaa-Akanbi, is particularly known for imported and specialty items. Whether it’s gourmet food, high-end toiletries, or household appliances, this store caters to customers who desire foreign and luxury brands. The store is well-lit, air-conditioned, and aesthetically appealing.
6. Jockervelass Super Store
This is one of the preferred destinations for cosmetics, hair care products, and personal hygiene items. Positioned strategically along Tanke Road, this superstore is popular with students and young professionals. It also offers a limited selection of snacks, soft drinks, and household basics.
7. Danco Supermarket
Located on Upper Taiwo Road in Ilorin, Danco Supermarket is known for being well-organized, reliable, and affordable. It provides customers with quality goods in a neat and customer-friendly environment. They stock everything from baby products to general groceries and beverages.
8. Edinwo Supermarket
Found along the Tanke area, near the University of Ilorin, Edinwo Supermarket targets students and university staff. Their prices are competitive, and the selection includes drinks, toiletries, snacks, and groceries. They also offer discounts for bulk purchases.
9. TopBuy Supermarket
This supermarket has built a name for itself in Ilorin by maintaining affordability and quality. Though less flashy than others, TopBuy excels in customer service and availability of fast-moving consumer goods.
10. Shukuralilai Stores
Operating in the Tipper Garage area of Tanke, Shukuralilai Stores is best known for affordable wines, soft drinks, toiletries, and household cleaning products. It’s a favorite among students, budget-conscious shoppers, and event planners who buy drinks in large quantities.
Shopping Malls in Kwara State
While supermarkets provide essential retail services, shopping malls in Kwara State take things further by offering a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. These malls are ideal for family outings, business meetups, and weekend leisure.
1. Kwara Mall
Kwara Mall is arguably the most iconic shopping center in the state. Located in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Ilorin, the mall spans a large space and offers a range of local and international brands.
Some of its highlights include:
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A food court
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Multiple fashion stores
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Electronics and gadget shops
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Shoprite supermarket (a major anchor tenant)
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Cinema and arcade centers
Kwara Mall is designed to offer not just products, but also experiences. It attracts shoppers from neighboring towns and contributes significantly to local tourism.
2. The Palms Ilorin
Another notable mall in Ilorin is The Palms. It was developed as part of a broader national retail expansion and includes numerous retail outlets, eateries, and a cinema. With ample parking space and modern architecture, it is one of the most visited places in the city on weekends.
The mall's design encourages walk-in traffic, and its retail space includes stores for fashion, electronics, food, and personal care. The cinema section is also popular among young adults.
3. Ilorin Emirate Mall
Ilorin Emirate Mall is a relatively new addition to the city’s urban landscape. It has modern facilities and is structured to accommodate both retail outlets and entertainment options. Though still growing in popularity, the mall is fast becoming a destination for middle-income families and business people who want a modern shopping experience.
Summary Table of Supermarkets and Shopping Malls in Kwara State
| Name | Type | Location | Key Offerings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ace Supermarket | Supermarket | Unity Road, Ilorin | Groceries, spa, lounge, arcade, bakery, clothing |
| Peculiar Grace Supermarket | Supermarket | Olorunsogo, Ilorin | Household goods, toiletries, groceries |
| M & G Supermarket | Supermarket | Oja Oba, Ilorin | Baby products, groceries, cosmetics |
| House of Czer Supermarket | Supermarket | Kulende-Sango, Ilorin | Fresh food, deliveries, provisions |
| Gold Divine Supermarket | Supermarket | Gaa-Akanbi, Ilorin | Imported groceries, electronics, cosmetics |
| Jockervelass Super Store | Supermarket | Tanke Road, Ilorin | Hair products, body creams, personal care |
| Danco Supermarket | Supermarket | Upper Taiwo Road, Ilorin | Budget shopping, fast-moving goods |
| Edinwo Supermarket | Supermarket | Tanke, Ilorin | Groceries, toiletries, affordable pricing |
| TopBuy Supermarket | Supermarket | Ilorin | General supermarket items, good customer service |
| Shukuralilai Stores | Supermarket | Tipper Garage, Ilorin | Drinks, cleaning supplies, provisions |
| Kwara Mall | Shopping Mall | GRA, Ilorin | Shoprite, fashion, cinema, food court |
| The Palms Ilorin | Shopping Mall | Ilorin | Retail stores, cinema, eateries |
| Ilorin Emirate Mall | Shopping Mall | Ilorin | Modern retail, food outlets, emerging attractions |
Final Thoughts
The retail landscape in Kwara State, particularly in Ilorin, has evolved tremendously. Supermarkets have replaced traditional open markets for many urban dwellers, providing comfort, variety, and quality. At the same time, shopping malls have introduced lifestyle conveniences that bring shopping, entertainment, and dining into a single location.
Whether you're shopping for basic groceries, looking to pamper yourself with imported products, or just want a fun day out with friends or family, Kwara State offers something for everyone. As development continues, we can only expect more sophisticated malls and stores to emerge, contributing to a richer and more dynamic urban life in the state.
