Abia State is famous for being one of the states you pass through while traveling to Akwa-Ibom, your actual destination, by road. Around 2021, my bus broke down in Umuahia, the capital city of the state, so I decided to spend the rest of the evening strolling around the city. I ended up spending seven days in the state, visiting various sites and feeling thrilled to discover that there was so much more to see in the state that hadn’t given us much since Enyimba Football Club stole our hearts in 2003/2004.
During my stay, I visited three spots in Abia State that provided serenity and beauty, helping me create the distraction I needed from the recent breakfast I’d been served while seeing nature’s beauty at its finest.
1. Ngodo Cave and Waterfall:
Set in the heart of Ohafia, Ngodo Cave and Waterfall is an overlooked treasure that must be seen. As you move through the rich vegetation of the surrounding forest, the sound of a waterfall becomes more audible, announcing your approach to this stunning natural wonder. The cave itself is a natural wonder, with fascinating rock formations and a cold, damp interior that provide a refreshing time off from the outside world. When you walk inside, you’ll be greeted with a slow trickle of water seeping through the rocks, creating a peaceful and serene environment.
Having ventured deeper into the cave, I discovered the source of the lovely sound – Ngodo Waterfall. The waterfall comes from the darkness, pouring elegantly down the moss-covered rocks, giving a breathtaking sight that is both awe-inspiring and soothing. Whether you want to stand beneath its refreshing shower or simply observe its beauty from afar, the Ngodo Cave and Waterfall is a timeless wonder that will leave you feeling connected to the natural world in ways you never imagined.
2. Akwete Weaving Village:
For decades, the craft of weaving has been an integral part of the Igbo people’s cultural legacy, and nowhere is this tradition more alive than in Akwete. Akwete Weaving Village, located in the beautiful countryside of Abia State, is a thriving village where skilled artists produce exquisite designs using age-old traditions handed down through generations.
As you walk through the hamlet, you’ll be met by the rhythmic clacking of looms and the brilliant vibrant colors of newly dyed fabrics. You may see professional weavers skillfully handle cotton and silk threads to create gorgeous fabrics valued for their quality and artistry. Akwete Weaving Village’s goods range from traditional wraps and headscarves to current fashion accessories, demonstrating the Igbo people’s ability and creativity.
However, Akwete is more than simply a souvenir shop; it is a living museum where visitors can learn about the Igbo people’s rich history and culture. There is much to learn and enjoy about this ancient craft, from the legends that inspire each design to the rituals that follow the weaving process. So I’d suggest you take your time, visit the hamlet at your leisure, and discover the beauty of Akwete Weaving hamlet for yourself.
3. The National War Museum:
The National War Museum in Umuahia brings history to life with a fascinating collection of artifacts, exhibitions, and memorials that tell the tale of Nigeria’s military past. From ancient weaponry to modern combat, the museum provides a thorough account of the wars that defined Nigeria’s history, particularly the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970).
As you go through the museum’s galleries, you’ll see a wide range of exhibits, including military costumes and equipment, personal souvenirs, and letters from troops on the front lines. Highlights include the Hall of Remembrance, where departed warriors are recognized and remembered, and the Gallery of Champions, which honors Nigerian soldiers’ valor and sacrifice throughout history.
Perhaps the most moving part of the National conflict Museum is its dedication to preserving the memories of people affected by conflict. The museum aims to prevent the lessons of the past from being forgotten and to encourage future generations to work for peace and reconciliation through interactive displays, educational programs, and outreach efforts.
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Finally, Abia State is a treasure mine of natural wonders, cultural legacy, Enyimba of Aba, and historical significance, and these must-see sites only scratch the surface of the region’s richness and diversity. A journey to Abia State, whether you’re exploring old caves, immersing yourself in traditional crafts, or tracing the footsteps of history, will leave you with lifelong memories.
