Ariaria International Market, located in Aba, Abia State, is one of the largest and most renowned markets in West Africa. Popularly referred to as the “Japan of Africa,” the market is celebrated for its vast production of locally made goods, especially fashion items, footwear, leather products, and household goods. It has become a hub of trade and creativity, attracting buyers and sellers from across Nigeria and neighboring countries.
Location
The market is situated in Aba, the commercial heartbeat of Abia State, in Nigeria’s South East region. Aba itself is well connected by road networks, making Ariaria easily accessible from other major cities such as Port Harcourt, Umuahia, Enugu, and Onitsha.
History/Origin
Ariaria Market was established in 1976 after a fire incident destroyed the popular Ekeoha Market in Aba. Traders and artisans were relocated to a new site, which soon grew into Ariaria International Market. Over the years, the market has expanded in size and reputation, becoming a major center of trade and indigenous manufacturing in Nigeria.
Features/Facilities
- Size and Layout: The market is expansive, covering several kilometers and divided into multiple sections specializing in different products.
- Products: Famous for shoes, leatherworks, garments, textiles, handbags, belts, and other locally manufactured goods.
- Workshops: Thousands of artisans operate small-scale workshops within the market, producing handmade and machine-stitched goods.
- Wholesale and Retail: Goods are available in bulk and at retail, attracting both local shoppers and international business buyers.
- Accessibility: The market has multiple entry and exit points, though it is often heavily congested.
Cultural/Social Relevance
Ariaria International Market is more than a commercial center; it represents the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people. The market has gained global recognition as a hub for indigenous creativity, with its craftsmen known for replicating and innovating global fashion trends at affordable prices. It also contributes significantly to the economy of Abia State and Nigeria at large, providing jobs to thousands of people.
Visitor/Tourist Information
- Opening Hours: Typically open Monday to Saturday from around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Access: Easily reachable by road transport. Visitors should prepare for heavy human and vehicular traffic, especially during peak trading hours.
- Fees: Entry into the market is free, though parking and logistics services may attract charges.
- Tourist Note: Visitors are advised to move with guides if unfamiliar with the area and to remain security-conscious due to the market’s size and crowd.
Notable Facts
- Ariaria is often called the “Japan of Africa” because of its reputation for innovation in shoemaking and garment production.
- The market is a key export point for locally made products, with traders supplying goods across West and Central Africa.
- It has survived major infrastructural challenges, including poor drainage and fire outbreaks, and remains a resilient economic hub.
Ariaria International Market in Aba is not just a trading ground but a symbol of creativity, resilience, and African enterprise. Its role in indigenous manufacturing and regional trade makes it a standout marketplace in Nigeria and a must-visit for those seeking to experience the heartbeat of Igbo entrepreneurship and commerce.
