By Udeme Hosea

Awareness of healthy living among people in Akwa Ibom State has risen sharply as more residents now flock to Udo Udoma Avenue near Unity Park and the banking layout to enjoy the natural benefits of coconut water.

The sale of coconut products along this road, according to sellers, has spanned almost a decade. The location has evolved into Uyo’s most reliable hub for fresh coconut, with traders reporting steady patronage year after year.

The roadside coconut market, popular among motorists, office workers and passersby, has become a bustling center for buyers seeking freshly cracked coconut water and locally processed coconut oil.

Speaking with our reporter recently, Madam Gloria Harry Taylor, who has been in the business for more than three years attributed the growing demand to the wide-ranging health benefits associated with coconut products. She noted that many residents now prefer coconut water to carbonated and sugary drinks because it naturally refreshes the body and restores lost energy without additives.

She explained that customers often buy coconuts in bulk for personal consumption and family use because, coconut water aids in cleansing the body system, improving hydration and boosting overall strength.

She further listed uses of the coconut tree, often called “the tree of life,” to include, the water for hydration and vitality, the milk extracted from the flesh for preparing coconut rice, the oil for cooking stew, skincare, the dried chaff as a nutritious swallow and the shell as a source of firewood.

She urged Nigerians to incorporate coconut water into their daily diet, describing it as a nutrient-rich, natural drink that supports wellness and longevity.

Another long-standing trader at Udo Udoma, Mrs. Uduak Mbosowo Etuk, who has been in the business for over seven years, explained that traders source coconut products from local markets and communities in Etinan, Orukanam and Mkpat Enin.

She noted that coconut oil has also gained popularity among Nigerians for both cooking and cosmetic purposes, especially as awareness of organic products grows.

She added that despite rising transportation and production costs, the consistent demand and strong patronage for coconut water and oil have encouraged traders to stay in business and even expand their operations.

A visit to Ikot Ebak in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area and Obio Akpan in Oruk Anam Local Government Area confirmed the trend, showing that coconut is now in high demand due to its numerous health benefits and emerging economic value to rural farmers.