My city my pride

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My City, My Pride — Uyo

You know that feeling when you talk about home and your chest just swells with pride? That’s exactly how I feel every time I think or talk about Uyo — the heart of Akwa Ibom State, and my beloved city.

Located in the southern part of Nigeria, Uyo may not always be in the headlines like Lagos or Abuja, but trust me, it has a quiet charm that grows on you the longer you stay. It's like that calm, humble friend who doesn’t talk much but has so much beauty, history, and heart packed inside. Uyo is that friend.

[Source] (https://pixabay.com/photos/city-traffic-highway-urban-nigeria-6971600/)

What Makes Uyo So Special?

First off, the peace and cleanliness. If you’ve ever been to Uyo, that’s probably the first thing you’ll notice. The streets are tidy, the environment is green, and the city feels... well, organized. And in a country where chaos can sometimes be the order of the day, that’s saying a lot!

But beyond aesthetics, Uyo is home to some of the friendliest and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. It’s the kind of city where strangers greet you with a smile, where everyone is someone’s brother, cousin, or friend. There’s a strong sense of community here that warms your heart.

Then there’s the culture — deep, colorful, and proudly Ibibio. Our language, our dances, our proverbs, and stories — they’re not just preserved; they’re lived. From the vibrant traditional attire to our respect for elders and our love for good food, Uyo holds tight to its roots while still embracing modernity.

[Source] ( https://pixabay.com/photos/children-street-africa-village-2143808/)

Traditions, Tastes & Hidden Gems

Let’s talk about food — because how can I talk about Uyo without bringing up the incredible dishes we have here?

If you're ever in town, you must try:

Afang Soup – rich, earthy, and packed with vegetables and periwinkles.

Edikang Ikong – a hearty mix of pumpkin leaves, water leaves, and meat that’s basically a hug in a bowl.

And Ekpang Nkukwo – grated cocoyam and periwinkle goodness wrapped in cocoyam leaves. It’s a labor of love, but so worth it!

These dishes are often cooked during family gatherings, traditional weddings, or just on a lazy Sunday when mama feels generous. They’re more than just meals — they’re part of our identity.

And then there’s our music and dance. Ever heard of Ekombi? It’s a traditional Ibibio dance performed by women — graceful, expressive, and absolutely mesmerizing. Our festivals, especially during the December period, bring all this to life. One of the biggest is the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival, which draws crowds from all over the country. It’s music, joy, lights, and unity all rolled into one amazing night.

As for hidden gems, Uyo has quite a few that locals know and love:

The Ibibio Unity Park — peaceful, full of cultural statues and history, perfect for reflective walks or catching up with friends.

Local markets like Itam Market, where the energy is wild and the deals are real. If you want fresh produce, unique fabrics, or traditional snacks, that’s the place to be.

And of course, there are the quiet corners in town where you can sit, eat roasted corn or boli, and just enjoy the evening breeze.

I am sorry I couldn't include pictures of my town but trust me it's worth it

3 Places You Must Visit in Uyo

If you’re planning a visit — and you totally should — here are three places you must not miss:

1. Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre
   Think of it as Uyo’s all-in-one stop for fun. A cinema, shopping mall, event centre, and food spots — it’s where we go to unwind, hang out with friends, or catch a movie after work.

2. Akwa Ibom State Museum
   This place is a quiet treasure. If you’re into history and want to understand our past, our people, and our culture, you’ll love it here. The artifacts, the stories, the traditional tools and art — it’s a beautiful learning experience.

1. Ibeno Beach
   Okay, technically not in Uyo, but just a drive away. And it’s worth it. Ibeno is the longest sand beach in West Africa, and it’s breathtaking. Whether you want to swim, walk along the coast, or just relax with your thoughts — this place heals

In the End…

Uyo may not be the loudest city in Nigeria, but it has a quiet confidence — rooted in culture, fueled by community, and full of beauty. It’s a city that balances tradition and growth, simplicity and elegance, warmth and pride.

And for me? It’s home. It’s my story. It’s my pride

Pictures of me in an akwa ibom attire

So if you ever find yourself in Nigeria, take that trip down to the south. Come taste our soups, dance to our drums, talk to our people, and soak in our sunsets. Uyo is waiting for you, arms wide open.

Have you ever visited Uyo or any part of Akwa Ibom? Or maybe you’re from a city you love just as much? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear your story too!