Okrika

Okrika is a historic riverine town on the Okrika Creek in Rivers State, about 15 km east of Port Harcourt. It is one of the oldest settlements in the Niger Delta, founded by Ijaw migrants centuries ago. Okrika is known for its annual Okrika Water Festival (also called the Apialezi Festival), celebrated with masquerades, boat regattas, and traditional dances. The town has a strong fishing tradition and is surrounded by mangrove creeks.

About 30 minutes from Port Harcourt by road, or by boat along the Okrika Creek.

Walking in the town centre. Boats for creek exploration. Taxis from Port Harcourt.

The Okrika Waterfront and the mangroves. The traditional Okrika chieftaincy compounds. The waterfront at sunset is beautiful.

Attend the Okrika Water Festival (Apialezi) for masquerades and boat regattas. Take a boat tour of the surrounding creeks.

Fresh seafood from the creek — grilled fish and Banga Soup. Local bukkas serve starch and pepper soup.

Palm wine from local tappers. Bottled drinks available.

Guesthouses in Okrika. Most visitors day-trip from Port Harcourt.

Okrika Market sells fresh fish and local produce.

• Port Harcourt (30 mins) — the state capital
• Bonny Island (1 hr by boat) — oil and gas hub
• Buguma (45 mins by boat) — Kalabari Kingdom capital