How Daddy K’s Bukka Is Energizing the Nightlife Culture in Calabar
By Prince Ansa
Nightlife in Calabar is a vibrant mix of entertainment, food, and social interaction, with several areas of the city bustling long into the night. While places like IBB by Cuda, Mobil by MCC, Etta Agbor roundabout, Effio-ette roundabout and Goldie Mount Zion Junction are well-known for their energetic atmosphere, the Atekong Junction stands out for its unique combination of food, entertainment, and late-night activities.
The Atekong Junction is a popular location in Calabar located along the Ndidem usang iso road, popularly known as Marian Road. It is often busy with both locals and visitors and is one of the few places in Calabar where activity continues uninterrupted well past midnight. Unlike other areas in the city where vendors begin closing their stalls by midnight, the junction remains a hotspot for night-time food and social gatherings.
This dynamic setting is home to several eateries, including Cathy’s Meals, Crispy Chicken, Naks Foods, Tata Fish, Daddy K and various roadside vendors, all contributing to the area’s thriving nightlife. Each of these establishments caters to the diverse needs of the late-night crowd, whether they’re returning from a club, taking a break from studying, or grabbing a quick meal after a late-night event.
Among these, Daddy K Bukka has become a standout. It’s one of the few food vendors at Atekong Junction that remains open until dawn, making it a go-to destination for those in need of a meal after most eateries have shut their doors. The Bukka serves a range of affordable delicacies, including fried rice, jollof rice, noodles with egg, and protein like chicken, turkey, and gizzards etc. The variety of food served at Daddy K Bukka not only caters to late-night diners but also adds to the vibrancy of the city’s nightlife.
However, Daddy K Bukka is not the only business that contributes to the city’s Nightlife culture. The entire stretch of Atekong Junction, with its many vendors, eateries and clubs helps energize the city’s nightlife by keeping things busy throughout the night. This area is particularly unique because of its ability to remain bustling till dawn, offering food, drinks, and entertainment for people of all ages.
The intersection of food and nightlife in Atekong has fostered a dynamic community where people gather, connect, and unwind long after the sun sets.
Other notable areas in Calabar also play a significant role in the city’s nightlife culture. IBB by Cuda, for example, is home to some eateries and clubs like Doris O, attracting crowds well into the night. Mobil by MCC is another area that remains busy after dark, with its mix of restaurants, food vendors, and hangout spots. Etta Agbor Roundabout and Goldie-Mount Zion Junction are popular locations for students, particularly those from the University of Calabar. These areas become hotspots for students returning from classes, heading to night classes, or simply grabbing a quick meal after their day’s activities.
While these areas have their own unique contributions to Calabar’s nightlife, Atekong Junction stands out for its consistent late-night activity. The fact that vendors here continue to serve the community well into the morning hours speaks to the area’s commitment to meeting the needs of the city’s active night crowd.
The overall nightlife culture in Calabar is a testament to the city regaining its status as a top tourist destination in Nigeria. The presence of local food vendors, clubs, eateries, and hangouts in key areas throughout the city adds to the vibrancy and energy that defines Calabar after dark. Through these venues, the city fosters a sense of community and social connection, offering a chance for relaxation, socializing, and entertainment at all hours.
From Daddy K Bukka at Atekong Junction to the buzzing student activity at Goldie Mount Zion Junction, Calabar’s nightlife culture is driven by the people and businesses that keep the city alive. It’s a culture of resilience where food, entertainment, and social interaction merge to create a truly unique urban experience. As the city continues to grow and its nightlife flourishes, these areas Atekong Junction in particular, will remain central to the city’s nighttime economy and social fabric.
