Akwa Ibom-Uyo: A Foodie's Paradise in the Land of Promise

When I first heard I’d be heading to Akwa Ibom for a conference, the tourist in me kicked in. Naturally, I did a quick search for waterfalls, hidden beaches, or adventure spots—something that could make the trip feel like more than just work. To my surprise, nothing exciting popped up. No big-ticket attractions, no adrenaline-filled excursions. So, I thought, “Well, this will be all business.”

But life had other plans.

As our plane descended into Uyo, the sight of the Cross River weaving its way through the green expanse below stole my breath. From the air, it was already clear: this land was beautiful in a different kind of way soft, unbothered, and deeply rich.

Once settled, I ordered dinner and without much expectation, I took my first bite of vegetable soup and pounded yam.

Let me just say everything changed from that moment.

The vegetables were fresh, green, crunchy, and flavorful in a way I’ve never experienced. It wasn’t just hunger talking. This was the kind of food that makes you pause, smile mid-bite, and silently give thanks. I couldn’t help but wonder if I’d stumbled on a hidden gem. The next day, my colleague rushed off after the conference to grab lunch, and before I could even ask, he looked at me and said, “This food… it’s something else!” Our entire team agreed. Every meal was an experience. Akwa Ibom’s food has a reputation—and it’s well-earned.

With every spoonful over the next few days, I fell deeper in love. I even found myself hitting the gym morning and evening—not for discipline but for balance. A joyful sacrifice to guilt-free eating!

On my final day, I took a city tour and it hit me...this isn’t just about recipes or skilled hands in the kitchen. It’s the land. Akwa Ibom is green, truly green. The soil rich, the air fresh, the energy calm. You can feel nature here, alive and generous. No wonder everything that grows here tastes like a gift.

This trip reminded me that not all adventures are about zip lines, waterfall selfies, or wildlife safaris. Some are about slowing down, paying attention, and letting your senses be surprised. Uyo gave me a new kind of experience, one rooted in nature’s abundance, culture’s flavor, and the joy of simple pleasures.

I’m already planning a foodcation with my favorite foodie friend. Akwa Ibom, you have my heart… and my stomach.

Indeed, this is truly the Land of Promise.

Dee😋😋