Ohafia

Ohafia is a historic town in northern Abia State, renowned for its warrior traditions and the Ohafia War Dance — a vigorous martial display performed with machetes and muskets by the Ohafia people, historically headhunters who defended Igbo territory. The town sits in a hilly, picturesque landscape and is a centre of Igbo martial culture. Ohafia is also known for its yam and cassava agriculture. The population is primarily farmers and traders, with a strong chieftaincy tradition.

By Plane

Nearest airport is Sam Mbakwe Airport (QOW) in Owerri, about 100 km north-west.

By Car / Road

Ohafia is on the Umuahia–Arochukwu road, about 30 minutes north of Umuahia. Shared taxis and buses run frequently from Umuahia and Aba.

Okada (motorcycle taxis) are the main local transport. The town is compact enough to walk between the main square and surrounding villages.

• Ohafia War Dance Square — where the famous war dance is performed during festivals

• Ohafia Museum of Colonial History — preserves artefacts from the colonial era and local traditional objects

• Ororie-Ukwu stream — a scenic local picnic spot

• Watch the Ohafia War Dance — the highlight of any visit, best seen during the annual new yam festival

• Visit the local pottery and weaving workshops

• Hike the Ohafia hills — panoramic views of the surrounding countryside

Local restaurants serve traditional Igbo meals including fufu and onugbu soup, yam porridge, and roasted yam with palm oil.

Palm wine is the local specialty. Small bars also serve beer and soft drinks.

Budget guesthouses are available in the town centre from ₦3,000–5,000.

Ohafia market sells yam, cassava, palm oil, and local crafts. The town is known for its woven bags and baskets.

• Arochukwu — 30 min south-east, for the Long Juju caves
• Umuahia — 30 min south-west, the state capital
• Abiriba — 20 min east, the "Small London" of Igboland