Ugep, Nigeria
Region: Cross River State
Geographic Coordinates: 5.800000, 8.083300
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 420000
Language: English
Ugep is a town situated in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. It is located in the southern part of Nigeria and has a population of over 100, 000 people. This town has a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its annual New Yam Festival that attracts visitors from all over the country. The primary occupation of Ugep residents is farming, With agriculture being their main source of livelihood.
They cultivate crops such as yam, Cassava, Maize and vegetables while fishing also plays an important role in the economy due to the presence of rivers and streams. Ugep’s market is vibrant where locals sell their produce alongside textiles, Ceramics and crafts. The market attracts traders from neighbouring towns who come to buy goods at wholesale prices. Several notable landmarks are present in Ugep including the Ugep Cultural Centre which houses a museum showcasing traditional artefacts like masks, Carvings and textiles.
There are also several historic sites like Long Juju Shrine used for traditional religious practices by Yakurr people before Christianity was introduced. In terms of education, Ugep has several primary schools, Secondary schools and tertiary institutions including College Of Education Akamkpa (COEAKAM), Cross River State College Of Health Technology (COTECH)and Federal College Of Agriculture Ishiagu Ebonyi State Annex among others. Ugep is well connected by road to major cities in Nigeria such as Calabar (the capital city of Cross River State), Enugu (the capital city of Enugu state)and Uyo(the capital city Akwa Ibom state).
The nearest airport Margaret Ekpo International Airport located in Calabar about 70km away from Ugep Overall, Ugepis a peaceful town with friendly people who welcome visitors warmly. A visit to this charming town offers an opportunity to experience Nigerian culture firsthand while enjoying its natural beauty.
- Ugep is a small town located in Nigeria, and it boasts several thriving industries and businesses.
- These include:
- Agriculture
- Trading
- Education
- Healthcare
- Hospitality industry
- Artisanal crafts
- Transportation services
- The town’s fertile soil makes it an ideal location for farming activities such as:
- Cassava cultivation
- Yam farming
- Maize production
- Growing of vegetables and fruits
- Additionally, palm oil production is also prevalent in Ugep.
- Ugep has a bustling market where traders buy and sell various goods ranging from:
- Foodstuffs
- Clothing materials
- Electronics
- Household items
- The town also has several primary schools and secondary schools that provide education to the local population.
- Residents of Ugep have access to basic medical services through the few clinics available within the town.
- Tourists visiting the area can enjoy their stay at one of the few hotels located in Ugep.
- Some locals engage in traditional crafts such as pottery making or weaving baskets from raffia palm leaves which are sold both locally and internationally.
- Commercial motorbikes (popularly known as Okada) are used within the town while buses provide transport to nearby towns or cities such as Calabar or Akwa Ibom state capital city – Uyo.
- The Ugep Kingdom was founded by the Efik people in the 16th century and is one of the oldest kingdoms in Cross River State, Nigeria.
- The Ekpe Festival is an important cultural event in Ugep that takes place annually in January or February. It features a traditional masquerade festival that showcases the customs and traditions of the Efik people.
- Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a notable Nigerian statesman, visited Ugep during his campaign for independence in 1954.
- Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary who lived and worked in Calabar close to Ugep between 1876 and her death in 1915.
- In November 2018, Prince Charles visited Nigeria as part of his West African tour where he met with traditional rulers including Obol Lopon Of Ugep Palace.
- The Boki Wars were conflicts between different ethnic groups including Boki people from neighbouring towns such as Nsadop,Usumutong,Ijiman,Ikot Offiong etc that took place during the late 19th century.
- During British colonial era ,Ugep was used as a base for British colonial administration.
- Ezekeil Bassey is a former Nigerian international footballer who hails from Ugep.
- Ugep Cultural Centre: Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Yakurr people of Cross River State.
- Agbokim Waterfalls: A natural wonder located approximately 17km from Ugep town.
- The Obol Lopon Palace: The traditional palace of the paramount ruler of Yakurr Kingdom.
- The National Museum Calabar Annex: Housing artifacts and exhibits related to Nigerian history and culture, located in Calabar (about 50km from Ugep).
- Mary Slessor House: A historic site that was once home to Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary who lived in Calabar during the colonial era.
- Tinapa Resort: A world-class entertainment and leisure destination with shopping malls, cinemas, casinos and more located about 60km from Ugep in Calabar.
- Drill Ranch: A conservation center for endangered species such as chimpanzees and drill monkeys located in nearby Ekuri village (about 20km from Ugep).
- Yakurr United FC: This team was founded in 1999 and has participated in several local tournaments.
- Obudu Mountain FC: Based in Obudu, which is near Ugep, this team has also participated in local tournaments.
- Young Stars FC: A group of young players established this team to showcase their skills on the field.
Basketball is also popular among the youth of Ugep with some notable teams such as:
- Yakurr All-Stars: This team comprises some of the best basketball players from Ugep and surrounding areas.
- Obudu Mountain Basketball Club: Similar to its football counterpart, this team represents Obudu but has players from Ugep as well.
Overall, sports play an important role in promoting unity and community development within Ugep and its surrounding areas.
- Leboku Festival: Celebrated annually by the Yakurr people to mark the start of a new farming season. The festival includes traditional dances, masquerade displays, and wrestling competitions.
- Ekpe Festival: A religious festival celebrated by the Efik people to honor their ancestors and gods. The festival involves masquerade displays, drumming, and dancing.
- New Yam Festival: An annual harvest festival celebrated by various ethnic groups in Ugep to give thanks for a bountiful harvest season. The festival features feasting on yam dishes and cultural performances.
- Calabar Carnival: Although not specific to Ugep alone but takes place in nearby Calabar city during Christmas time which attracts visitors from all over Nigeria as well as other countries around the world.
- Ekeleke Masquerade Festival: A yearly event showcasing different types of masquerades from various communities within Yakurr land including Egbom-Egbo (the biggest), Ediong-Ekpe among others.
- Uyanga Cultural Dance Competition: An annual dance competition where different communities come together to compete against each other showcasing their unique dance moves while promoting their culture.
These are just some examples of cultural events and festivals that take place in Ugep throughout the year; there are many others that vary depending on the community’s traditions or religious beliefs as well as local government initiatives aimed at promoting tourism within Cross River State where it’s located.
- Afang Soup: This is a well-known soup made with Afang leaves and other ingredients like meat or fish.
- Edikang Ikong Soup: Another famous soup made with vegetables and spices.
- Ofe Nsala: A spicy soup prepared with goat meat or chicken.
- Ekpang Nkukwo: This is a traditional dish made with grated cocoyam served alongside spicy sauce.
- Mama’s Kitchen: This restaurant offers an array of Nigerian dishes including soups, rice dishes, and grilled meats.
- The Yellow Chilli Restaurant: A trendy restaurant that serves both traditional Nigerian dishes as well as international cuisine.
- Buka Hut Restaurant: Specializes in African cuisine including jollof rice, pepper soup, and pounded yam served with various stews and soups.
- KFC Ugep: A fast-food chain that serves fried chicken meals along with sides such as fries and coleslaw.
- Domino’s Pizza Ugep: Another fast-food chain that offers pizza delivery services in Ugep town.
- Mary Slessor Park: This park is located in the heart of Ugep and is a popular spot for picnics, relaxation, and outdoor activities.
- Obudu Mountain Resort: Located about 50km from Ugep, this resort offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, horse riding, swimming, and golfing.
- Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to various species of primates and birds. Visitors can take guided tours to see these animals in their natural habitat.
- Cross River National Park: This national park covers over 4,000 square kilometers of land and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, bird watching and wildlife viewing.
- Ikom Monoliths: These ancient stone carvings are located about 30km from Ugep and offer an interesting glimpse into the history of the region.
- Agbokim Waterfalls: Located about 60km from Ugep, these waterfalls are a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.
- Canoeing on Cross River: Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks to explore the scenic Cross River which flows through Ugep.
- Cultural festivals: The people of Ugep celebrate several cultural festivals throughout the year including Ekpe masquerade festival which features colorful traditional dances and performances by masked performers.
- Ugbo Odogwu Festival- A festival that celebrates the end of farming season with cultural displays such as masquerades dance etc
