Uyo: The Heart of Akwa Ibom

• HelloAbadie
  [ah-bah-dee]
• GoodbyeKaa
  [kah]
• YesEe
  [ee]
• NoAma
  [ah-mah]
• Please/You're welcomeBiko
  [bee-koh]
• Thank youDaalu
  [dah-ah-loo]
• Excuse me/SorryKpe kwa
  [kpeh kwah]
• How are you?Kedu ka i mere?
  [keh-doo kah ee meh-reh]
• Fine. And you?Onye kere n'obi. O nwe ike?
  [oh-nyeh keh-reh n'oh-bee. oh nweh ee-keh]
• Do you speak English?O nweghi iko Bekee?
  [oh nweh-gee ee-koh beh-keh]
• I don't understandA si m na agbago
  [ah see mm nah ah-gbah-goh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA dikedike ibe menu, biko
  [ah dee-keh dee-keh ee-beh meh-noo, bee-koh]
• I don't eat meatA si m na e na ewu
  [ah see mm nah eh nah eh-woo]
• Cheers!Ndo!
  [ndoh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseA dikedike ibe i mekwanu, biko
  [ah dee-keh dee-keh ee-beh ee meh-kwah-noo, bee-koh]

• Help!Nye m aka!
  [nyeh mm ah-kah]
• Go away!Gaa wanye!
  [gah wah-nyeh]
• Call the Police!Kpoo Police!
  [kpoh poh-leece]
• Call a doctor!Kpoo doctor!
  [kpoh dohk-tor]
• I'm lostA chowa
  [ah choh-wah]
• I'm illA na-aghi
  [ah nah-ah-ghee]

• I'd like to buy...A dikedike m gara...
  [ah dee-keh dee-keh mm gah-rah]
• I'm just lookingA na-ebunye
  [ah nah-eh-boo-nyeh]
• How much is it?Ozi gini?
  [oh-zee gee-nee]
• That's too expensiveOdiro akara mma
  [oh-dee-roh ah-kah-rah mmah]
• Can you lower the price?O nweghi iko n'aka?
  [oh nweh-gee ee-koh nah-kah]

• What time is it?Kedu otutu bu?
  [keh-doo oh-too-too boo]
• It's one o'clockO bu otu o keta
  [oh boo oh-too oh keh-tah]
• Half past (10)Odiro nnyocha (iri)
  [oh-dee-roh nn-yoh-chah ee-ree]
• MorningUtutu
  [oo-too-too]
• AfternoonEhihie
  [eh-hee-heh]
• EveningAbali
  [ah-bah-lee]
• YesterdayEkele
  [eh-keh-leh]
• TodayTaa
  [tah]
• TomorrowOchia
  [oh-chee-ah]
• 1Otu
  [oh-too]
• 2Abuo
  [ah-boo-oh]
• 3Atolu
  [ah-toh-loo]
• 4Ani
  [ah-nee]
• 5Isii
  [ee-see-ee]
• 6Asaa
  [ah-sah-ah]
• 7Asato
  [ah-sah-toh]
• 8Asaa-ato
  [ah-sah-ah-toh]
• 9Ighotara
  [ee-ghoh-tah-rah]
• 10Iri
  [ee-ree]

• Where's a/the...?Ebee ka...
  [eh-beh kah]
• What's the address?Kedu adreesi bu?
  [keh-doo ah-dree-see boo]
• Can you show me (on the map)?O nweghi iko n'dikwa m (na map)?
  [oh nweh-gee ee-koh n-dee-kwah mm (nah map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kedu otu ebe ndi ugbua di?
  [keh-doo oh-too eh-beh n-dee oog-bwah dee]
• A ticket (to ....)Ibe tiketi (si ....)
  [ee-beh tee-keh-tee see]

Before the advent of colonialism, the region now known as Uyo was inhabited by the Ibibio people, one of the earliest ethnic groups in southeastern Nigeria. These indigenous communities were largely agrarian, living in small villages and practicing subsistence farming. They had a rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals, folklore, and a highly organized system of governance rooted in age-old customs.

With the arrival of British colonialists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region experienced significant changes. Uyo, like many other parts of Nigeria, came under British control, which brought about new administrative structures and the introduction of Western education and Christian missionary activities. The colonial period also saw the construction of some of the first modern infrastructures in the area.

One of the most pivotal moments in Uyo's history was the creation of Akwa Ibom State on September 23, 1987. Uyo was designated the capital of the new state, which was carved out of Cross River State. This event marked a significant turning point, leading to rapid urbanization and development in Uyo as it transitioned from a modest town to a bustling state capital.

The discovery of oil in the Niger Delta region, which includes Akwa Ibom State, had a profound impact on Uyo's economy. The oil boom brought increased revenue and investment, leading to infrastructural development and a surge in population. Uyo became an important administrative and commercial hub, attracting businesses and professionals from various sectors.

Uyo is a vibrant center of Ibibio culture, with numerous traditional festivals and events that celebrate the rich heritage of its people. One notable festival is the Ekpe Festival, an ancient cultural celebration involving masquerades, music, and dance. The city also has numerous cultural institutions, including museums and art galleries that preserve and showcase the history and traditions of the Ibibio people.

In recent years, Uyo has seen significant urban development, with modern amenities, shopping malls, and improved transportation networks. The city is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Uyo, which contributes to its reputation as an educational and intellectual center. The ongoing development projects continue to transform Uyo into a modern metropolis while retaining its cultural essence.

Uyo is the capital city of Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria. The nearest international airport is the Akwa Ibom International Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. Flights from major Nigerian cities like Lagos and Abuja are available. Alternatively, you can fly into Port Harcourt International Airport or Calabar Airport and take a bus or taxi to Uyo. The road trip from Port Harcourt takes about 2-3 hours, while from Calabar, it takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Once in Uyo, you have several transportation options. Taxis and motorcycles (okadas) are readily available and are a popular means of getting around the city. For a more comfortable ride, you can use ride-hailing apps like Bolt. Additionally, minibuses serve various routes within the city and are an affordable option. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

The official currency in Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available, but be cautious and use machines located in secure locations such as banks or shopping malls.

Uyo is generally safe, but like any city, it is essential to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Some neighborhoods, like Use Offot and Ikot Ekpene Road, have reported higher crime rates targeting tourists. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs. It is also advisable to check with local contacts or hotel staff for updated safety information.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Uyo has several hospitals, including the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For police assistance, you can visit the nearest police station or contact the Akwa Ibom State Police Command.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or mosques, dress appropriately and follow any specific guidelines. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Avoid loud conversations and always give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Greetings: Do greet people warmly, a handshake is common, and addressing people with respect is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like Afang soup and Ekpang Nkukwo. Don't refuse food when offered, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Uyo like a local, visit the vibrant Ibom Plaza, a popular spot for shopping and socializing. Enjoy local cuisine at street food stalls and local restaurants. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre for a mix of shopping, entertainment, and dining. For a unique cultural experience, attend a traditional Ibibio dance performance or festival.