Abacha Barracks
Abacha Barracks, also known as Mogadishu Barracks, is easily number one my Top 5 Places to Visit in Abuja. The mammy market has about 50 fish sellers arranged in a circle with bars surrounding them.
With a little more space, entertainment and better arrangement, it would be our very own Jemaa el fna square. It has a truly authentic atmosphere and loved by both locals and the expat/diplomatic community.
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I first came here 2009 and it made an impression. Summer of 2010 saw my friends and I spending all of our Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm, eating fish and drinking beer to get over the hangover from the previous night. Oh happy days!
Customers go to a stall of their choice to pick their fish. The already cleaned and de-scaled fish is rubbed with a mixture of ground pepper, tomatoes, onions and spices, then placed on a traditional cooking grill.
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We are loyal to Sarah’s store and have been for 6 years.
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After placing the fish order you walk across to any of the bars for very chilled beer at pump price. Heaven!
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The fish is to be eaten with hands; you wouldn’t do justice it with knife and fork.
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The fish has you all smiling and taking selfies
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Can you tell how happy we are with the fish?
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Justice served!
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The price ranges from N1,200 to N2,000 with side salad and chips.
The mammy market is closed at 9pm each day, a time which is strictly adhered. Saturday and Sunday are the best days to visit the market
If you are ever in Abuja, do not fail to visit Abacha Barracks!