Akwa Ibom State is arguably one of the most beautiful states in Nigeria. As a matter of fact, it has repeatedly earned the title of the “cleanest state in Nigeria.”
It is bordered on the east by Cross River State, on the west by Rivers State and Abia State, and on the south by the Atlantic Ocean. The state takes its name from the Qua Iboe River which bisects the state before flowing into the Bight of Bonny.
If you plan on taking a trip to Akwa Ibom, here are three places you should definitely visit:
Ibeno Beach
Ibeno beach is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Akwa Ibom. The beach, which is reportedly the longest sand beach in West Africa, stretches for about 30 kilometres from Ibeno to James Town along the Atlantic coastline of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
With its beautiful coastline, Ibeno provides endless natural facilities for tourism, water sporting, beach soccer, and general boating.
The atmosphere at Ibeno beach is calm and serene, for a relaxing afternoon sipping palm wine or bringing out your competitive side at any of the various outdoor sports activities.
Lord Luggard’s Residence
In 1912, British colonial master, Frederick John Dealtry Lugard, better known as Lord Luggard lived in the present-day Ikot Abasi local government Area of Akwa Ibom state.
Luggard’s house, now a ghost of a once magnificent edifice, still strikes first-time visitors as a window to Nigeria’s colonial history.
The house is a simple wood and brick structure that consists of his living room, the guest room and other utility rooms. It has been said it was in this house that Lugard actually came up with the idea of amalgamating the country to be made up of North and South. Lord Luggard’s residence is just opposite the Amalgamation house, another important piece of Nigeria’s history.
The National Museum of Colonial History
The National Museum of Colonial History in Uyo houses collections centres on the creation of the state as well as ethnographic items – artefacts, relics, valuable antiquities, and carvings related to the people of Akwa Ibom State.
The museum which was established in 1985 is located at Wellington Bassey way, Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
An ideal monument for nature lovers, it is surrounded by green courts and framed by whispering pines and fruit trees. Other facilities include a museum education centre, museum kitchen complex, museum shop, and research library.
Ready to travel to Akwa Ibom and explore these exciting places? Book a trip with GIGM now.
