Afikpo, known locally as Ehugbo, is one of the largest towns in Ebonyi State, in the hills near the Cross River in the south of the state. It is made up of many villages grouped around a central town.
Afikpo is known among art historians and visitors for its masquerade traditions, especially the satirical Okumkpa plays, and for its carved masks and pottery made by local women.
Top things to do in Afikpo
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Watch an Okumkpa masquerade play
Okumkpa is a masquerade performance in which masked players act out songs and skits that comment on, and often poke fun at, people and events in the community. Performances take place during the dry season.
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See traditional pottery
Afikpo women have long made clay pots by hand for cooking, storing water and ceremonies. Some potters still work in the villages, and pots are sold in local markets.
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Relax at Ndibe Beach
Ndibe Beach is a sandy riverbank on the Cross River near Afikpo, where people go for picnics, boat rides and fresh fish, especially at weekends and during the festive season.
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Walk in the hills
Afikpo is set among low hills and valleys, with good viewpoints over the town and towards the Cross River.
Festivals and culture
Masquerade plays and festivals are central to Afikpo's cultural year, along with new yam festivals and age-grade initiations. December brings homecomings and gatherings at Ndibe Beach.
Food to try
Try pounded yam or garri with ofe akwu or egusi soup, fresh fish from the Cross River, abacha and roasted yam.
Best time to visit
The dry season, from November to March, is when masquerade performances are most common and the beach is busiest. Rain falls from about April to October.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the town and its villages. Afikpo is about an hour and a half south of Abakaliki by road.
Questions about Afikpo
What is Afikpo known for?
Afikpo is known for its Okumkpa masquerade plays and carved masks, its traditional pottery, and Ndibe Beach on the Cross River.
What is Ndibe Beach?
It is a sandy riverside beach on the Cross River near Afikpo, popular for picnics and boat rides.
How do I find events in Ebonyi State?
Browse upcoming festivals, concerts, parties and free events in Ebonyi State on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
