By Nkem Ndem
Sapele is a tantalizingly unexplored slice of Delta State in Nigeria. Created as a trading village by the Europeans, the city today has grown to be an industrial hub having industries such as footwear manufacturing, timber, palm oil and rubber processing hence getting visited by numerous people on business and leisure. The general idea is that Sapele is a trading village, and it is not only popular for saw-milling, other industrial activities go on within the area, considering the major ports located in the suburb.
For all its newfound prosperity, Sapele remains a land steeped in tradition. Its locale, bursting with places to visit, is a pulsating feast of eye-searing sights, feverish activity and round-the-clock business. Again, its people are a real delight: fiercely proud, but markedly eager to please foreigners who come to live or holiday in their location. Within hours of arriving, you may well find yourself with new friends.
TOP THREE SITES
Sapele Athletic club
Sapele Athletic Club is the oldest club in Nigeria as it was founded in 1880 before Ikoyi Club, Kaduna Club, Benin Club and numerous others across the country.
Sapele Main Market
Sapele main market, the most popular market in Sapele town, plays a significant role in the life of the people whose occupation are in the area of small and medium scale production.
Sapele stadium
Sapele Township Stadium is a multi-use stadium in Sapele, Nigeria. It is used mostly for football matches and athletics. It is the temporary home stadium of Bayelsa United F.C. The stadium has a capacity of 16,000 people
LODGING
You can get good value for money across the accommodation spectrum in Sapele. The 4 star Hampshire Hotel and Resort situated beside the Sapele Athletic club is one of the best hotels in Sapele you can book. Some of other Sapele hotels you will enjoy lodging at are London Royal Hotel, Barry White Hotel and Richards Continental Hotel and Resort. You can book the hotels on Jumia Travel and take advantage of the discounts.
DINING
It’s easy to eat well for little in Sapele as a majority of restaurants are clean but modest and offer decent food at low prices. Sapele’s restaurants range from those charging city prices for continental cuisine to the grimiest roadside diners serving local meals and little else besides. There are numerous eateries all over Sapele such as Mega Planet, African Kitchen and Happy Kitchen.
SHOPPING
Trading in Sapele is a time-old tradition, making shopping in the area a firm favourite. Every knickknack imaginable can be found in the markets, as well as more contemporary items like trendy fashion, electronics etc. There are some shopping malls and boutiques across the country too, selling diverse apparel for every occasion, books, technology, home décor and food.
FUN FACT
The Sapele Ferry which is till today the only means of carrying motor vehicles across the river was started in January, 1929.
Nkem Ndem is a PR Associate at Jumia Travel.