Auchi is the largest town in Edo North, the hilly northern part of Edo State. It is the seat of the Otaru of Auchi, the town's traditional ruler, and has a large Muslim population alongside Christian communities.
The town is home to one of Nigeria's oldest polytechnics, founded in 1963 and well known for its school of art and design. Students give Auchi a young, busy feel during term.
Top things to do in Auchi
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Visit the Otaru's palace
The palace of the Otaru is the centre of Auchi's traditional institutions and the focus of public celebrations, especially during the Eid holidays.
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See student art
The polytechnic's art school has trained many Nigerian painters, sculptors and designers. Exhibitions and end-of-year shows give visitors a chance to see new work.
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Explore the hills of Edo North
The countryside around Auchi rises into rocky hills. The Akoko-Edo area, including Ososo and Somorika, is known for its scenic hilltop views and cooler air.
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Visit the markets
Auchi's markets bring in traders from across Edo North and neighbouring Kogi State, selling yams, grains, fabrics and household goods.
Festivals and culture
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major occasions in Auchi, with prayers, visits to the Otaru's palace and family celebrations. Christmas, campus events and December homecomings add to the calendar.
Food to try
Try pounded yam with egusi or ogbono soup, Edo-style starch with owo soup, rice dishes, suya and roasted yam. Kunu and zobo drinks are sold widely.
Best time to visit
November to March is dry, with harmattan haze in December and January. The rainy season runs from about April to October.
Getting around
Tricycles, motorcycle taxis and taxis cover the town. Auchi is about 160 km north of Benin City, on the road towards Okene and Abuja.
Questions about Auchi
What is Auchi known for?
Auchi is known for its polytechnic and art school, as the seat of the Otaru of Auchi, and as the main town of Edo North.
How far is Auchi from Benin City?
About 160 km by road, usually a drive of around three hours.
How do I find events in Edo State?
Browse upcoming concerts, parties, campus events and free events in Edo State on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
