Walking around the World Bank area in Owerri, one thing that quickly catches my attention is the variety of street foods available. The environment is always lively, and it is almost impossible to move around without noticing the delicious smells coming from different food spots along the roadside.

One of the most common street foods I often see is suya. In the evening, the suya spots begin to get busy as the aroma of spicy grilled meat fills the air. I usually notice people gathering around the suya stand, waiting patiently while the seller slices the hot meat and adds onions, pepper, and spices. It is always tempting to stop and grab a portion.

Another popular street food around the area is roasted corn and pear (ube), especially when corn is in season. Sometimes, as I walk past the roadside vendors, I see the corn roasting slowly over hot charcoal. The smell alone can make anyone hungry. Many people buy it as a quick snack while heading home from work or school. And not only in the World Bank, but corn and pear are very common street food in Owerri

I also come across women selling akara and pap in the mornings. The akara is usually hot and fresh, fried right there by the roadside. Early in the day, you will often see people stopping to buy akara wrapped in paper while holding a cup of pap for breakfast.

Not too far away, there are vendors selling bole (roasted plantain) and groundnuts. The plantain is roasted over fire and served with groundnuts or sometimes spicy pepper sauce and roasted catfish. It is a simple but satisfying street food that many people enjoy.

Another thing I frequently notice around the area is snacks like meat pie, doughnuts, chin-chin, and puff-puff. These are often displayed in small glass cases by roadside vendors or small kiosks. They are perfect for a quick bite when you are feeling hungry but don’t want a full meal.