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Located in the coastal southern region of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom is famous for its scenic beauty and great tourist locations. As one of the country’s oil-producing states, it is also admired for its cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere.
Here are the top tourist locations in Akwa Ibom State—you should definitely make time to visit these breathtaking places if you haven’t already.
Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Center
Located at Udo Udoma avenue in the heart of Uyo city, Ibom Tropicana is popularly called ‘Nigeria’s Disneyland’ by the locals. It consists of a five-star hotel, a gallery with cinema, a shopping complex, and a theme park loaded with different attractions. Though the cinema is not open for use currently, it’s definitely a great spot to have family time. Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre is definitely the best place to create lovely memories with your loved ones.
God’swill Akpabio International Stadium
This stadium which was constructed by Julius Berger construction firm was estimated to cost about 16 million Naira. This 30,000 individual seater facility is one of the best natural grass stadiums with FIFA-approved facilities in Nigeria. Since the time it was commissioned in 2014, it has hosted several local and international matches like the match between Nigeria and SA in October 2017, and many others. It is definitely a world-class sports complex to enjoy the game with friends.
Ibeno Beach
Said to be the longest beach in West Africa, Ibeno beach stretches from Ibeno to Jamestown. It is located in Ibeno LGA and it is one of the numerous tourist attractions in Akwa Ibom. The soothing sound of the roaring waters makes this an excellent location for a picnic or a party.
Le Meridien Hotel and Golf Resort
This is also called the pride of Uyo. The resort which rests on 174 hectares of land offers the best of luxuries, that will wow your imagination. Ranging from luxurious accommodation, to exquisite dining, and an awe-inspiring golf spot, it is truly an incredible place to visit. For golf lovers, this is a place you can’t afford to miss. A visit to this awe-mazing resort is guaranteed to leave you star-struck.
Ibom Specialist Hospital
Ibom specialist hospital is called a medical mecca by the locals. It was established in 2015 by Senator God’swill Akpabio during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom state. The hospital has since sought to provide world-standard medical treatment to patients. If you think hospitals in Nigeria lack world-class medical facilities, then a visit to Ibom Specialist Hospital is non-negotiable.
Dakkada Towers
Dakkada Towers is an eye-catching 21-storey building situated in the Banking Layout of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. This impressive structure, built by VKC Construction Limited and officially opened by Professor Yemi Osinbanjo in 2021, showcases the best of modern architecture and innovation. Dakkada Towers is the tallest building in southern Nigeria.
Ibom Plaza
Ibom Plaza was built in 2001 by the government of Akwa Ibom state, to provide a first-class relaxation centre for the locals. The popular plaza accommodates shopping malls, business centres, game centres and eating centres for friends and families. Ibom Plaza is described as one of the places that pioneered nightlife in Uyo.
Ibom e-Library
If you’ve never been to a digital library, get ready to take a trip to the Ibom e-library. This library which is described as the first and biggest digital library in Nigeria and one of the biggest in Africa is situated in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom state. It is described as a state-of-the-art facility not only for its top-notch services but also for its unique architectural design.
Bridge of No Return
This bridge was so named because in the days of old, it was the final point where slaves were carried into the slaves ships that eventually sold them into slavery. No slave who crossed the bridge ever returned. Also at this bridge are the slave dungeons. These dungeons are made up of containers of cast concrete with two tiny holes at each end that enables its occupants to receive air. Stubborn slaves were kept in these dungeons before shipment to weaken their resolve. The dungeons have partitions so that each cubicle holds one slave. Apart from the dungeons, there are warehouses for goods that were later turned into slave warehouses. This was where the slaves were kept in preparation for their shipment.
Ibibio Museum
If you’re looking to learn the culture of the people of Akwa Ibom, this museum is a good place to begin. The ibibio museum features a lot of artifacts that accurately tells the history of the ibibio people. It also has a park which has a scenic paved walkway perfect for a stroll or even a picnic. Whether you want to learn history or just enjoy a long solitary stroll, the Ibibio Museum got you covered.
