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.

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. 

We are loyal to Sarah’s store and have been for 6 years.

After placing the fish order you walk across to any of the bars for very chilled beer at pump price. Heaven!

The fish is to be eaten with hands; you wouldn’t do justice it with knife and fork.

The fish has you all smiling and taking selfies

Can you tell how happy we are with the fish?

Justice served!

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!