A Guide to Benue Markets Holding on the 25th August 2025

Benue State, fondly known as the “Food Basket of the Nation” for its abundant agricultural produce, thrives on its traditional market days. These periodic gatherings, often held every five days in many Tiv-dominated areas, are more than just places to buy and sell—they’re cultural hubs where communities connect, stories are shared, and the local economy pulses with energy. Today, Monday, August 25, 2025, marks a significant market day across the state, with numerous popular spots opening their stalls to vendors and buyers alike. From fresh yams and grains to handmade crafts and livestock, these markets offer a glimpse into the heart of Benue’s rural life.

Inspired by a recent post from the “Benue Market & Advert Hub”, here’s a roundup of the key markets holding today. We have grouped them by Local Government Area (LGA) for easy navigation. Whether you’re a resident, a traveler, or just curious about Nigerian market culture, these spots are worth exploring. Note that Benue’s markets often follow a rotating schedule, making days like today a prime opportunity for trade and socializing.

Ado LGA

• Igele Market: A staple for local farmers, known for seasonal produce and basic goods.

Agatu LGA

• Owetu Market: Popular for its riverside location, offering fish, yams, and other farm-fresh items.

Buruku LGA

• Abuku, Nyamatsor, Adogo, Buruku, Ashibi Mbagen, and Abakwa Markets: These clustered markets form a vibrant network in the area, specializing in grains, vegetables, and household essentials. Buruku Market, in particular, draws crowds for its affordable staples.

Gboko LGA

• Tsekucha, Akpagher, Tyoado, and Luga Markets: Gboko is a major hub, and these markets are famed for their variety. Gboko Market itself is one of the top markets in the state, often bustling with traders from neighboring areas.

Guma LGA

• Ginde, Uleva, Umenger, and Udei Markets: Ideal for those seeking fresh produce like maize and cassava, reflecting Guma’s agricultural strength.

Gwer East LGA

• Ayar Mbalom, Ivur, and Ukyari Markets: These are community favorites, with Igbor Market in the LGA known for its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, including local crafts.

Gwer West LGA

• Naka, Agagbe, Aondona, and Bonaka Markets: Naka stands out as a go-to spot for grains and yams, contributing to the region’s food distribution.

Katsina-Ala LGA

• Abako, Joo Mbatyough, Tyogbenda Udende, and Tor Donga Markets: Katsina-Ala’s markets are steeped in tradition, often featuring Tiv cultural items alongside everyday goods.

Konshisha LGA

• Agberagba Tongu, Ukehe, Gbinde, Agidi, Agera Mbacahmbe, and Jovkyudan Markets: These rural gems highlight Konshisha’s role in local trade, with a focus on sustainable farming products.

Kwande LGA

• Achia, Inoham, Kookoko, Iyon, and Ichol Markets: Kwande boasts several five-day cycle markets like Adikpo, which is renowned for its scale and variety, though today’s list spotlights these specific ones.

Logo LGA

• Ayilamo, Dooshima, Door, and Wende Markets: Compact yet energetic, these markets serve the local population with essentials and foster community ties.

Makurdi LGA

• Apir Market: As the state capital’s representative today, it’s part of Makurdi’s broader market scene, which includes heavyweights like Wurukum and Modern Market for everything from fruits to electronics.

Obi LGA

• Ihigile Market: A key point for trade in Obi, emphasizing affordable food items.

Ohimini LGA

• Onyagede Market: Known for its role in the local economy, attracting buyers from nearby communities.

Oju LGA

• Ihigile Market: Similar to its Obi counterpart, it’s a hub for daily necessities and social interactions.

Okpokwu LGA

• Afor and Ugbokolo Markets: These are well-trafficked, with Ugbokolo noted for its accessibility and range of goods.

Otukpo LGA

• Ojawu Opa Adoka Market: Otukpo’s markets are integral to the Idoma cultural landscape, offering unique local delicacies.

Tarka LGA

• Gwarche, Avande, and Nyamber Markets: Smaller but vital, these support Tarka’s agricultural output.

Ukum LGA

• Afia, Diom, Joo, and Sankera Markets: Ukum is home to the world-famous Zaki Biam Yam Market, the largest of its kind globally, though today’s openings focus on these alternatives—perfect for yam enthusiasts on a smaller scale.

Ushongo LGA

• Adikpo Mbaagwa, Igboor, M’mbele, and Ikyobo Markets: Ushongo’s markets, like Lessel, are known for their major draw on certain days, blending trade with cultural vibes.

Vandeikya LGA

• Adamgbe, Achwa, Gbadu, Tor Tiv, Tsua, and Koti Yough Markets: Vandeikya shines with markets like Agbo, but today’s list highlights these for their community focus.

Imagine stepping into one of these markets: the air filled with the aroma of roasted yams, vendors haggling over prices, and families like the one in a recent snapshot from a Benue market— a woman cradling her child amid sacks of grains labeled “BENUE FOOD BASKET,” surrounded by bustling traders. It’s scenes like this that capture the essence of Benue’s market culture.

If you’re in Benue today, grab your shopping bag and head out, support local farmers, and experience the real Nigeria. Stay tuned for more on Benue’s hidden gems!