Major Markets In Edo State: Food Markets
Edo State, in the South-South region of Nigeria, is known for its rich culture and lively markets. These markets are more than places to buy things; they are where people meet, trade, eat, and enjoy the local way of life.
In this post, we will look at some of the most popular markets in Edo State, what they are famous for, and why you should visit them.
1. Oba Market – Ring Road, Benin City
Where: Ring Road, Benin City, Oredo Local Government Area
Oba Market is one of the oldest and most well-known markets in Edo State. It started in the 15th century and is located in the center of Benin City. Locals call it "Ekioba."
What You Can Buy: Fresh food, clothes, shoes, kitchen tools, electronics, herbs, crafts, beads, and cultural items.
Why Go There? It’s more than a market—it’s a place full of history and tradition. You can also see the Emotan Statue nearby.
2. Ekiosa Market – Sakponba Road, Benin City
Where: Second East Circular Road, near Sakponba Road, Benin City
Also called Queen's Market or God's Market, Ekiosa Market is very busy and colorful. People love it for its low prices.
What You Can Buy: Food items, vegetables, herbs, beauty products, wrappers, lace, and cultural goods.
Why Go There? It’s a great place to get herbal items and traditional products. The street food is also tasty.
3. New Benin Market – Mission Road, Benin City
Where: Between Mission Road and New Lagos Road, New Benin area
This is one of the biggest trading centers in Edo. It’s always crowded with people buying and selling.
What You Can Buy: Clothes, shoes, electronics, household items, bush meat, and imported goods.
Why Go There? You can buy in bulk or at wholesale prices. It’s perfect if you love getting good deals.
4. Uselu Market (Edaiken Market) – Ugbowo, Benin City
Where: Along Ugbowo-Lagos Road, near the University of Benin
Also known as Edaiken Market, it mainly serves students and families living nearby.
What You Can Buy: Groceries, soap, food items, fabrics, school supplies.
Why Go There? It’s easy to reach for students and has good prices for everyday items.
5. Oliha Market – Siluko Road, Benin City
Where: Siluko Road, Egor LGA
Oliha Market is known for its traditional items. It’s popular for cultural shopping.
What You Can Buy: Yams, garri, vegetables, native chalk, herbs, bush meat, spiritual goods.
Why Go There? If you want to see traditional Benin culture and buy fresh food, this is the place.
6. Ikpoba Hill (Oregbeni) Market – Ikpoba-Okha LGA
Where: Ikpoba Hill, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area
This market opens every four days and serves people from nearby towns.
What You Can Buy: Cassava, pepper, corn, plantains, tomatoes.
Why Go There? You can buy fresh food from local farmers at good prices.
7. Santana Market – Sapele Road, Benin City
Where: Along Sapele Road
Though not large, Santana Market is known for seafood and beverages.
What You Can Buy: Fresh fish, crabs, snails, drinks, and spices.
Why Go There? If you enjoy seafood, this is the right place.
8. Agbado Market (Ekiagbado) – Akpakpava, Benin City
Where: Akpakpava and Mission Road area
Also called Ogiso Market in the past, this market focuses on household items today.
What You Can Buy: Pots, buckets, plates, jerry cans, plastic chairs.
Why Go There? Great if you are setting up a home or looking for useful household goods.
9. Ugbogiobo Market – Ovia North-East LGA
Where: Ugbogiobo Town
This rural market also opens every four days. Farmers come here to sell their produce.
What You Can Buy: Palm oil, yam, garri, maize, plantain, pepper.
Why Go There? It’s the best market to get fresh farm products directly from the source.
10. Evbuotubu Market – Evbuotubu, Benin City
Where: Near Evbuotubu Town Hall
A small market that serves the nearby community.
What You Can Buy: Food items, groceries, snacks, school needs.
Why Go There? It’s less crowded, so good for quick shopping.
11. Yanga Market – Use Quarter, Benin City
Where: Ogbe Road, Use Quarter
A lively market where tradition meets daily shopping.
What You Can Buy: Local jewelry, snacks, woven fabrics, clothes.
Why Go There? Great for tourists and anyone who wants to enjoy Edo street food and crafts.
📜 Tips for Visiting Markets in Edo State
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Go Early: Mornings are the best time for fresh goods and fewer crowds.
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Bring Cash: Most traders don’t take cards. Carry small naira notes.
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Haggle Politely: You can bargain, but be respectful.
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Stay Alert: Some markets are very busy. Watch your phone and bag.
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Try Local Food: Don’t miss jollof rice, pepper soup, or puff-puff.
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Respect Traditions: Especially in markets with spiritual or cultural goods.
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Use Public Transport: Parking is often hard in big markets.
🌍 Why These Markets Matter
Markets in Edo State help the community in many ways:
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Support Farmers and Artisans: Local producers get a place to sell their goods.
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Create Jobs: Many people earn their living from these markets.
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Keep Culture Alive: Traditional items remind us of Benin's rich history.
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Bring People Together: Markets are also social spaces.
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Attract Tourists: Some visitors come just to see these lively markets.
Final Words
Exploring the markets in Edo State is a fun and rich experience. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, you can enjoy shopping, meet new people, and learn about the local culture.
Each market has something special—from Oba Market’s history to the peaceful setting of Ugbogiobo. So next time you are in Edo, visit these markets and discover the real spirit of the state.
