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Anambra () is a
state State most commonly refers to: * State (polity), a centralized political organization that regulates law and society within a territory **Sovereign state, a sovereign polity in international law, commonly referred to as a country **Nation state, a ...
in Nigeria. It is located in the South-eastern region of the country. The state was created on 27 August 1991. Anambra state is bounded by
Delta State Delta is a States of Nigeria, state in the South South (Nigeria), South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Named after the Niger Delta—a large part of which is in the state—the state was formed from the former Bendel State, on 27 August 1 ...
to the west,
Imo State Imo () is a States of Nigeria, state in the South East (Nigeria), South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east. It takes its name from the Imo R ...
and
Rivers State Rivers is a states of Nigeria, state in the Niger Delta region of southern Nigeria (Old Eastern Region). Formed on 27 May 1967, when it was split from the former Eastern Region, Nigeria, Eastern Region, Rivers State borders include Imo State, Im ...
to the south,
Enugu State Enugu () verbally pronounced as "Enụgwụ" by the Igbo indigenes is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by the states of Benue and Kogi, Ebonyi State to the east and southeast, Abia State to the so ...
to the east and
Kogi State Kogi State is a States of Nigeria, state in the North Central Nigeria, North Central region of Nigeria, bordered to the west by the states of Ekiti State, Ekiti and Kwara State, Kwara, to the north by the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, Fe ...
to the north. The state's capital is Awka, while the state’s largest city is
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
which is regarded as one of the largest metropolises in Africa. Nnewi is the second largest commercial and industrial city in Anambra State, and also a known automobile hub within
Nigeria Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It covers an area of . With Demographics of Nigeria, ...
and
Africa Africa is the world's second-largest and second-most populous continent after Asia. At about 30.3 million km2 (11.7 million square miles) including adjacent islands, it covers 20% of Earth's land area and 6% of its total surfac ...
. The state name was inherited from the former Anambra State, a territory that consisted of the present day Enugu State, Anambra State and parts of Ebonyi State. The old Anambra State was formed in 1976 from the former East Central State. The state is named after Omambala River, a river that runs through the state. Anambra is the anglicized form of Omambala. The State capital is Awka. The city of
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
, a historic port city from the pre-colonial era, remains an important centre of commerce within the state,while Nnewi is the second largest commercial and industrial city in the state. Nicknamed the "Light of the Nation", Anambra State is the fourteenth most populous state in the nation, although that has seriously been argued against as
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
, the state's biggest and most populous urban area was discovered to be over 8.5 million in population in 2022 by Africapolis which makes
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
one of the largest urban areas in
Nigeria Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It covers an area of . With Demographics of Nigeria, ...
by population. The area currently known as Anambra State has been the site of numerous civilizations since at least the 9th century AD, including the ancient
Kingdom of Nri The Kingdom of Nri () was a medieval polity located in what is now Nigeria. The kingdom existed as a sphere of religious and political influence over a significant part of what is known today as Igboland prior to expansion, and was administered ...
, whose capital was the historic town of
Igbo-Ukwu Igbo-Ukwu ( English: ''Great Igbo'') is a town in the Nigerian state of Anambra in the south-central part of the country. The town comprises three quarters namely Obiuno, Ngo, and Ihite (an agglomeration of 4 quarters) with several villages wi ...
within the state. Residents of Anambra State are primarily Igbo, with the
Igbo language Igbo ( , ; Standard Igbo: ''Ásụ̀sụ́ Ìgbò'' ) is the principal native language cluster of the Igbo people, an ethnicity in the Southeastern part of Nigeria. Igbo languages are spoken by a total of 31 million people. The number of Igbo ...
serving as a
lingua franca A lingua franca (; ; for plurals see ), also known as a bridge language, common language, trade language, auxiliary language, link language or language of wider communication (LWC), is a Natural language, language systematically used to make co ...
throughout the state. During the
Nigerian Civil War The Nigerian Civil War (6 July 1967 – 15 January 1970), also known as the Biafran War, Nigeria-Biafra War, or Biafra War, was fought between Nigeria and the Republic of Biafra, a Secession, secessionist state which had declared its independen ...
(1967–1970), Anambra State was part of the secessionist Republic of Biafra formed by Igbo nationalists. Anambra was severely affected by the war. Today, Anambra State is one of the most urbanized states in Nigeria.


Etymology

The name Anambra is the merging of Anam and the English word 'branch'. Anam is a clan in the Omambala region and the last Igbo speaking community the British colonialists encountered while heading up to Northern Nigeria from across the riverine areas. They usually described present day Anambra as 'Anam branch' to their colleagues up North. Reason Anam together with some neighboring clans was Anambra LGA when the state was created. It is now Anambra-West LGA with Olumbanasa.


History

Anambra's history stretches to the 9th century AD, as revealed by archaeological excavations at
Igbo-Ukwu Igbo-Ukwu ( English: ''Great Igbo'') is a town in the Nigerian state of Anambra in the south-central part of the country. The town comprises three quarters namely Obiuno, Ngo, and Ihite (an agglomeration of 4 quarters) with several villages wi ...
and Ezira. It has great works of art in
iron Iron is a chemical element; it has symbol Fe () and atomic number 26. It is a metal that belongs to the first transition series and group 8 of the periodic table. It is, by mass, the most common element on Earth, forming much of Earth's o ...
,
bronze Bronze is an alloy consisting primarily of copper, commonly with about 12–12.5% tin and often with the addition of other metals (including aluminium, manganese, nickel, or zinc) and sometimes non-metals (such as phosphorus) or metalloid ...
,
copper Copper is a chemical element; it has symbol Cu (from Latin ) and atomic number 29. It is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. A freshly exposed surface of pure copper has a pinkish-orang ...
, and
pottery Pottery is the process and the products of forming vessels and other objects with clay and other raw materials, which are fired at high temperatures to give them a hard and durable form. The place where such wares are made by a ''potter'' is al ...
. These have revealed a sophisticated divine Kingship administrative system, which held sway in the area of Anambra from c. 948 AD to 1911. In some towns, such as Ogidi and others, local families had hereditary rights to kingship for centuries. Great Britain recognised some of these traditional kings and leaders in their system of indirect rule of the Protectorate of South
Nigeria Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It covers an area of . With Demographics of Nigeria, ...
. Beginning in the 19th century, they appointed some noble leaders as Warrant Chiefs, authorizing them to collect taxes, among other duties. Anambra is in the Igbo-dominated area that seceded as part of an independent
Biafra Biafara Anglicisation (linguistics), anglicized as Biafra ( ), officially the Republic of Biafra, was a List of historical unrecognized states and dependencies, partially recognised state in West Africa that declared independence from Nigeria ...
in 1967, following rising tensions with Northern Nigeria. During the Nigerian/Biafran war (1967–1970),
Biafra Biafara Anglicisation (linguistics), anglicized as Biafra ( ), officially the Republic of Biafra, was a List of historical unrecognized states and dependencies, partially recognised state in West Africa that declared independence from Nigeria ...
n engineers constructed a relief airstrip in the town of Uli/Amorka (code named "Annabelle"). Extremely dangerous relief flights took off from Sao Tome and other sites loaded with tons of food and medicine for the distressed Biafran population. Uli/Amorka airstrip was the site where American pilots such as Alex Nicoll, and scores of others, delivered tons of relief supplies to the Biafran population. Disgusted by the suffering and mounting death toll in
Biafra Biafara Anglicisation (linguistics), anglicized as Biafra ( ), officially the Republic of Biafra, was a List of historical unrecognized states and dependencies, partially recognised state in West Africa that declared independence from Nigeria ...
from starvation, as well as the continuous harassment of the relief planes by the Nigerian Airforce,
Carl Gustaf von Rosen Count Carl Gustaf Ericsson von Rosen (19 August 1909 – 13 July 1977) was a Swedish pioneer aviator, humanitarian, and mercenary pilot. He flew relief missions in a number of conflicts as well as combat missions for Finland (whose first mili ...
resigned as a
Red Cross The organized International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a Humanitarianism, humanitarian movement with approximately 16million volunteering, volunteers, members, and staff worldwide. It was founded to protect human life and health, to ...
relief pilot. He helped Biafra to form an Airforce of five Minicoin planes Malmö MFI-9 stationed at the Uga airstrip. He named his tiny but effective air force " Babies of Biafra" in honour of the babies who died from starvation inside Biafra. Old Anambra State was created in 1976 from part of East Central State, and its capital was
Enugu Enugu () verbally pronounced as "Enụgwụ" by the Igbo indigenes is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by the states of Benue and Kogi, Ebonyi State to the east and southeast, Abia State to the so ...
. In 1991, a re-organisation divided Anambra into two states, Anambra and
Enugu Enugu () verbally pronounced as "Enụgwụ" by the Igbo indigenes is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by the states of Benue and Kogi, Ebonyi State to the east and southeast, Abia State to the so ...
. The capital of the New Anambra is Awka.


Geography


Location

Boundaries are formed by
Delta State Delta is a States of Nigeria, state in the South South (Nigeria), South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Named after the Niger Delta—a large part of which is in the state—the state was formed from the former Bendel State, on 27 August 1 ...
and
Edo State Edo State, Edo, officially known as Edo State, is a States of Nigeria, state in the South South, South-South Geopolitical zones of Nigeria, geopolitical zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As of 2024, the state was ranked as the List of Ni ...
to the west for about 97 km across the
River Niger The Niger River ( ; ) is the main river of West Africa, extending about . Its drainage basin is in area. Its source is in the Guinea Highlands in south-eastern Guinea near the Sierra Leone border. It runs in a crescent shape through Mali, Nige ...
,
Imo State Imo () is a States of Nigeria, state in the South East (Nigeria), South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east. It takes its name from the Imo R ...
and
Rivers State Rivers is a states of Nigeria, state in the Niger Delta region of southern Nigeria (Old Eastern Region). Formed on 27 May 1967, when it was split from the former Eastern Region, Nigeria, Eastern Region, Rivers State borders include Imo State, Im ...
(for four km) to the south,
Enugu State Enugu () verbally pronounced as "Enụgwụ" by the Igbo indigenes is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by the states of Benue and Kogi, Ebonyi State to the east and southeast, Abia State to the so ...
to the east for 139 km, and
Kogi State Kogi State is a States of Nigeria, state in the North Central Nigeria, North Central region of Nigeria, bordered to the west by the states of Ekiti State, Ekiti and Kwara State, Kwara, to the north by the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, Fe ...
to the north for about 40 km. The name was derived from the Anambra River (Omambala) which flows through the area and is a tributary of the
River Niger The Niger River ( ; ) is the main river of West Africa, extending about . Its drainage basin is in area. Its source is in the Guinea Highlands in south-eastern Guinea near the Sierra Leone border. It runs in a crescent shape through Mali, Nige ...
. Anambra is the eighth-most populated state in the
Federal Republic of Nigeria Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It covers an area of . With Demographics of Nigeria, ...
and the second-most densely populated state in
Nigeria Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It covers an area of . With Demographics of Nigeria, ...
after
Lagos State Lagos State (, ) is a States of Nigeria, state in South West, Nigeria. Of the 36 States of Nigeria, Nigerian states, Lagos is the second List of Nigerian states by population, most populous state but the List of Nigerian states by area, smallest ...
. The stretch of more than 45 km between the towns of Oba and Amorka contains a cluster of numerous thickly populated villages and small towns, giving the area an estimated average density of 1,500–2,000 persons per square kilometre.


Climate

The state has a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate with yearly temperature of 28.99 °C (84.18 °F) and it is -0.47% lower than Nigeria's averages. Anambra typically receives about 212.36 millimeters (8.36 inches) of precipitation and has 243.38 rainy days (66.68% of the time) annually. The state has been described as one of the worst places affected by the
climate change Present-day climate change includes both global warming—the ongoing increase in Global surface temperature, global average temperature—and its wider effects on Earth's climate system. Climate variability and change, Climate change in ...
in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa in 2022 according to the Climate Change Education and Action Programme, (CLEAP).


Administrative Division


Cities and administrative divisions

With an annual population growth rate of 2.21 percent per annum, Anambra State has over 60% of its people living in urban areas. It is one of the most urbanized states in Nigeria. The major urban centres of Anambra State are
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
, Nnewi, Ekwulobia, Ihiala, Aguleri and Awka, the state capital. Awka and Onitsha had developed as pre-colonial urban centres: Awka was the craft industrial centre of the Nri hegemony. Onitsha is a city state on the Niger, having developed as a river port and commercial centre. Onitsha is a fast-growing commercial city and has developed to become a huge conurbation extending to Idemili, Oyi and Anambra East LGAs, with one of the largest markets in West Africa. In 2012 the tri-city area was dubbed the Onitsha-Nnewi-Awka (ONA) Industrial Axis, in recognition of the expanding industrial capacity. Nnewi (sometimes called the
Taiwan Taiwan, officially the Republic of China (ROC), is a country in East Asia. The main geography of Taiwan, island of Taiwan, also known as ''Formosa'', lies between the East China Sea, East and South China Seas in the northwestern Pacific Ocea ...
of Nigeria) is a rapidly developing industrial and commercial centre. Designated as the state capital, Awka has regained its precolonial administrative eminence.


Local government areas

Anambra State consists of 21
local government areas A local government area (LGA) is an administrative division of a country that a local government is responsible for. The size of an LGA varies by country but it is generally a subdivision of a state, province, division, or territory. The ph ...
. They are: * Aguata * Anambra East * Anambra West * Anaocha * Awka North * Awka South * Ayamelum * Dunukofia *
Ekwusigo Ekwusigo is a Local Government Areas in Nigeria, Local Government Area in Anambra State, south-central Nigeria. Towns that make up the local government are Ozubulu, Oraifite, Ichi, Nigeria, Ichi and Ihembosi. History The Ekwusigo local governme ...
* Idemili North *
Idemili South Idemili South is a Local Government Areas in Nigeria, Local Government Area in Anambra State, South-East Nigeria. The headquarters is Ojoto secretariate which was built by Hon Sylva . G. Abasilim the first elected council chairman and was commissio ...
* Ihiala * Njikoka *
Nnewi North Nnewi North is a Local Government Area in Anambra State, south-central Nigeria. Nnewi is the only town in Nnewi North LGA. It has four villages (sub-towns) that make up the one-town local government, which includes; Otolo, Uruagu, Umudim and Nne ...
* Nnewi South * Ogbaru * Onitsha North * Onitsha South * Orumba North * Orumba South * Oyi


Economy

Anambra houses the first Nigerian vehicle manufacturer, Innoson, an automobile manufacturer, located in Nnewi. People all over
West Africa West Africa, also known as Western Africa, is the westernmost region of Africa. The United Nations geoscheme for Africa#Western Africa, United Nations defines Western Africa as the 16 countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, The Gambia, Gha ...
travel to
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
and Nnewi to trade, which boost the internal revenue of the state. Onitsha is among the top commercial cities in Africa. Agriculture is an important economic sector in Anambra. Oil palms,
maize Maize (; ''Zea mays''), also known as corn in North American English, is a tall stout grass that produces cereal grain. It was domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 9,000 years ago from wild teosinte. Native American ...
,
rice Rice is a cereal grain and in its Domestication, domesticated form is the staple food of over half of the world's population, particularly in Asia and Africa. Rice is the seed of the grass species ''Oryza sativa'' (Asian rice)—or, much l ...
, yams and
cassava ''Manihot esculenta'', common name, commonly called cassava, manioc, or yuca (among numerous regional names), is a woody shrub of the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae, native to South America, from Brazil, Paraguay and parts of the Andes. Although ...
are among the crops grown.
Fishing Fishing is the activity of trying to catch fish. Fish are often caught as wildlife from the natural environment (Freshwater ecosystem, freshwater or Marine ecosystem, marine), but may also be caught from Fish stocking, stocked Body of water, ...
is also part of the economic mainstay of Anambra State more especially for communities along the riverine areas. Anambra is a home of innovation, inventions and creativity. There have been several innovations in Anambra, due to its appreciation of education, which has added to the state's GDP. One of those was in 2018, when two brothers, Atikpo Chukwuebuka and Ubaka Chukwuebuka, were the first to invent a machine, that could wash off the bitterness from bitter-leaf (a popular vegetable staple in Nigeria). This machine will greatly improve the productivity of vegetable farming in the state. The
export An export in international trade is a good produced in one country that is sold into another country or a service provided in one country for a national or resident of another country. The seller of such goods or the service provider is a ...
of agricultural items is a continual boost to Anambra Internal Generated Revenue. In 2017, the state generated $5 million from the export of washed bitter leaf. There is a huge deposit of oil and gas in Nigeria, with the Anambra Basin having a great potential of 1000 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves untapped. Having more than 13 oil wells situated in Anambra, the state has the capacity to produce more than 100,000 barrels of crude oil per day, with indigenous companies like Orient Petroleum, and Sterling Oil Exploration and Production Co. LTD (SEEPCO), already leading the way.


Natural resources

Anambra is rich in
natural gas Natural gas (also fossil gas, methane gas, and gas) is a naturally occurring compound of gaseous hydrocarbons, primarily methane (95%), small amounts of higher alkanes, and traces of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, hydrogen sulfide and helium ...
,
crude oil Petroleum, also known as crude oil or simply oil, is a naturally occurring, yellowish-black liquid chemical mixture found in geological formations, consisting mainly of hydrocarbons. The term ''petroleum'' refers both to naturally occurring u ...
,
bauxite Bauxite () is a sedimentary rock with a relatively high aluminium content. It is the world's main source of aluminium and gallium. Bauxite consists mostly of the aluminium minerals gibbsite (), boehmite (γ-AlO(OH)), and diaspore (α-AlO(OH) ...
, and
ceramic A ceramic is any of the various hard, brittle, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant materials made by shaping and then firing an inorganic, nonmetallic material, such as clay, at a high temperature. Common examples are earthenware, porcela ...
. It has an almost 100 percent arable soil. Anambra state has many other resources in terms of agro-based activities such as fisheries and farming, as well as land cultivated for pasturing and
animal husbandry Animal husbandry is the branch of agriculture concerned with animals that are raised for meat, animal fiber, fibre, milk, or other products. It includes day-to-day care, management, production, nutrition, selective breeding, and the raising ...
.


Oil and gas

In the year 2006, a foundation-laying ceremony for the first Nigerian private refinery, Orient Petroleum Refinery (OPR), was made at Aguleri area., All Africa, 2006 The Orient Petroleum Resource Ltd (OPRL), owner of OPR, was licensed in June 2002, by the Federal Government to construct a private refinery with a capacity of . In 2012, following the efforts of Governor Peter Obi and other stakeholders of Orient Petroleum, Anambra State became an oil-producing state. The indigenous company struck oil in the Anambra River basin. On 2 August 2015, the management of Orient Petroleum Resources Plc said the company planned to increase its crude oil production to 3,000 barrels per day by September 2015, as it stepped up production activities in two new oil wells in its Aguleri oil fields. An indigenous company, Nails and Stanley Ltd, was to establish a gas plant at Umueje in Ayamelum Local Government Area to support economic activities in the oil and gas industry in the state. Following the attribution of eleven (11) oil wells by the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in August 2021, Anambra State joined the league of oil producing States in Nigeria. The process to amend the law that set up the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) through which infrastructure is provided to oil producing States has started. The purpose is to include Anambra State in the list of oil producing States as stated in the NDDC law through the amendment of Section 2(1)(b) of the NDDC Establishment ACT CAP N 86 LFN 2004.


Infrastructure and urbanization

Since the late 1990s, there has been a migration from rural to urban areas in the state, resulting in Anambra becoming a highly urbanized state: 62% of its population lives in urban areas. In October 2015, the APGA-led state government of
Willie Obiano Willie Obiano (born August 8, 1955) is a Nigerian politician, banker and technocrat. He was the 4th Governor of Anambra State from 17 March 2014 to 17 March 2022. Early life Governor Obiano was born at Aguleri, a town in Anambra State, East ...
, signed a memorandum of understanding with
Galway Galway ( ; , ) is a City status in Ireland, city in (and the county town of) County Galway. It lies on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay. It is the most populous settlement in the province of Connacht, the List of settleme ...
modular housing company, Affordable Building Concepts International, for 10,000 housing units to be built in the state. Given decades of neglect of infrastructure and bad governance, the shift in human migration has posed problems for the state. Infrastructure improvements, both physical and social, have lagged behind the growth in population. There are problems in environmental sanitation, erosion control, and provision of social services. Major cities have become characterized by inadequate and deteriorated road networks and walkways, unregulated building patterns, poor sanitation, uncontrolled street trading, mountains of garbage, and chaotic transport systems, creating congestion, noise pollution, and overcrowding. The government of Peter Obi, with the assistance of the
UN-HABITAT The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is the United Nations programme for human settlements and sustainable urban development. It was established in 1977 as an outcome of the first United Nations Conference on Human Settleme ...
, produced 20-year structural plans (2009–2028) for three major cities in the State:
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
, Nnewi and Awka – the Capital Territory, to restore urban planning and guide their growth into the future. The plans contain policies and proposals for land use, city beautification, road infrastructure, industrial development, housing, waste disposal, water supply and health and educational facilities to turn the cities into successful urban areas that can generate employment and wealth, and provide high living standards for their residents. Anambra became the first state in Nigeria to adopt structural plans for its cities. With effective implementation, it should systematically grow as a major economic center in Nigeria, and West Africa. The process of
urbanization Urbanization (or urbanisation in British English) is the population shift from Rural area, rural to urban areas, the corresponding decrease in the proportion of people living in rural areas, and the ways in which societies adapt to this change. ...
is fairly contributed by population growth, immigration, migration, and infrastructure initiatives like good road, water, power, and gardens, resulting in the growth of villages into towns, town into cities and cities into metros. To have ecologically feasible development, planning requires an understanding of the growth dynamics. There is a fear that if too many people leave the villages, only the aged men and women will be left to farm. This pattern has been seen in Amesi, Akpo, and Achina towns in Aguata local government area. They have been important in the production of yam, cocoyam, and cassava through consistent agriculture, but such activities have suffered due to the out-migration of youth to the urban centres. There has been both food scarcity in the region and over-population in
urban area An urban area is a human settlement with a high population density and an infrastructure of built environment. Urban areas originate through urbanization, and researchers categorize them as cities, towns, conurbations or suburbs. In urbani ...
s. To upgrade the state capital and improve traffic, Awka, Governor
Willie Obiano Willie Obiano (born August 8, 1955) is a Nigerian politician, banker and technocrat. He was the 4th Governor of Anambra State from 17 March 2014 to 17 March 2022. Early life Governor Obiano was born at Aguleri, a town in Anambra State, East ...
signed off on construction of three flyovers between the Amawbia and Arroma end of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, a distance of about three kilometres within the city. Anambra International Cargo Airport, Umueri, opened on 7 December 2021.


Transportation

Anambra has good transport links to other states in the country. Federal highways: * A6 north from
Owerri Owerri ( , ) is the capital city of Imo State in Nigeria, set in the heart of Igboland. It is also the state's largest city, followed by Orlu, Nigeria, Orlu, Okigwe and Ohaji/Egbema. Owerri consists of three Local Government Areas of Nigeria, Loc ...
in
Imo State Imo () is a States of Nigeria, state in the South East (Nigeria), South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east. It takes its name from the Imo R ...
. * A232 ( Trans-African Highway 8 Lagos-Mombasa) east from Asaba in
Delta State Delta is a States of Nigeria, state in the South South (Nigeria), South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Named after the Niger Delta—a large part of which is in the state—the state was formed from the former Bendel State, on 27 August 1 ...
by the 1,404 m Niger River Bridge (1965) to
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
via Awka to
Enugu State Enugu () verbally pronounced as "Enụgwụ" by the Igbo indigenes is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by the states of Benue and Kogi, Ebonyi State to the east and southeast, Abia State to the so ...
at Ugwuoba. Other major roads include: * the Umuleri-Onitsha Rd north from
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
to Aguleri where the Adani Rd continues north to
Enugu State Enugu () verbally pronounced as "Enụgwụ" by the Igbo indigenes is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by the states of Benue and Kogi, Ebonyi State to the east and southeast, Abia State to the so ...
, * the Awka-Okigwe Rd south from Awka to
Imo State Imo () is a States of Nigeria, state in the South East (Nigeria), South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east. It takes its name from the Imo R ...
at Amaeshi, * the Orlu-Ihiala Rd southeast from A6 at Orlu Junction to
Imo State Imo () is a States of Nigeria, state in the South East (Nigeria), South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east. It takes its name from the Imo R ...
, * the Uki-Oguta Rd southwest from A6 at
Uli Uli or ULI, may refer to: Places *Uli, Anambra, Nigeria; a town * Uli, Iran; a village People and figures * Uli I of Mali (Yérélinkon; 13th century), emperor of Mali Germanic name Uli is a name, short for Ulrich or Ulrike (disambiguation) and ...
to
Imo State Imo () is a States of Nigeria, state in the South East (Nigeria), South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east. It takes its name from the Imo R ...
at Atughobi.


Water Transportation Service

The
Niger River The Niger River ( ; ) is the main river of West Africa, extending about . Its drainage basin is in area. Its source is in the Guinea Highlands in south-eastern Guinea near the Sierra Leone border. It runs in a crescent shape through Mali, Nige ...
connects
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
Inland Port with the ports of
Port Harcourt Port Harcourt (Pidgin: ''Po-ta-kot or Pi-ta-kwa)'' is the capital and largest city of Rivers State in Nigeria. It is the fifth most populous city in Nigeria after Lagos, Kano, Ibadan and Benin. It lies along the Bonny River and is locate ...
in
Rivers State Rivers is a states of Nigeria, state in the Niger Delta region of southern Nigeria (Old Eastern Region). Formed on 27 May 1967, when it was split from the former Eastern Region, Nigeria, Eastern Region, Rivers State borders include Imo State, Im ...
, and Bururu and
Warri The city of Warri is an oil hub within South-South Nigeria and houses an annex of the Delta State Government House. Warri City is one of the major hubs of the petroleum industry in Nigeria. Warri, Udu, Okpe and Uvwie are the commercial ...
in
Delta State Delta is a States of Nigeria, state in the South South (Nigeria), South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Named after the Niger Delta—a large part of which is in the state—the state was formed from the former Bendel State, on 27 August 1 ...
. Nearing completion is the Second Niger Bridge at Onitsha. Road Transportation companies; * Transport Company of Anambra State (TRACAS) * Chisco Transport Limited * GUO Transport Company * Onitsha South Mass Transit * Eastern Mass Transit * Goodness and Mercy Transport Company * Peace Mass Transit * ABC Transport Terminal * Star Sunny Motors Air Transportation service; * Anambra International Cargo Airport


Culture and tourism

Ogbunike Caves, listed by
UNESCO The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO ) is a List of specialized agencies of the United Nations, specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) with the aim of promoting world peace and International secur ...
as a
World Heritage Site World Heritage Sites are landmarks and areas with legal protection under an treaty, international treaty administered by UNESCO for having cultural, historical, or scientific significance. The sites are judged to contain "cultural and natural ...
, is one of the most visited tourist sites in Anambra State. It is classified as a sandstone cave (Lateritic sandstones of Campanian-Miocene age). The Owerre Ezukala caves and waterfalls are great tourist attractions in the state. Largely unexplored, the caves are said to be the largest in West Africa. The indigenous ethnic groups in Anambra state are the Igbo (99% of the population) and a small population of people who are bilingual Igbo Ukwu Museum: Igbo Ukwu is an ancient town known for its astonishing metal crafts; it continues to attract tourists to see its bronze artifacts. First noticed in 1938, the bronzes were later excavated by Thurstan Shaw (an English archaeologist). They have been dated to the 9th century, and are of high value and historic relevance. Other places of interest in the state includes: * Ogba Waterfalls; considered to be one of the largest cave in West Africa, which will take upwards to two hours to explore. It is located in Owerre Ezeukala, that borders three other states: Abia, Enugu and Imo. * Agulu Lake; it is very wide and lengthy with habitats that support several marine species, including crocodile and water turtle. Fishing is prohibited there. * Rojenny Tourist Village; located in Oba and has small games reserves that are populated with a variety of animals such as Baboons, Chimpanzees, Alligators etc. It also has African bar-restaurant, children's park, Olympic size swimming pool, etc. * Odinani Museum Nri; located in Anaocha Local Government, it houses lots of archaeological discoveries, cultural and traditional religious artifacts. * Ikenga Virgin Forest; the only virgin forest in Nigeria as the trees have never been deforested nor its land cultivated. It is home to species of animals that have gone extinct in other parts of the country. * The palaces of
Obi of Onitsha The Obi of Onitsha is the traditional leader of Onitsha, Anambra State, southeast Nigeria. The post of the Obi is recognized by the state and federal government of Nigeria, and the Obi is seen as a representative of the people of Onitsha to the ...
and Eze Nri. Cuisines Anambra also has diverse delicacies; onugbu soup is a well-known dish from the state. Nsala soup, Oha Soup, Egusi soup,
Palm oil Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from the mesocarp (reddish pulp) of the fruit of oil palms. The oil is used in food manufacturing, in beauty products, and as biofuel. Palm oil accounted for about 36% of global oils produced from o ...
Stew, Nkwobi, Isi ewu, Abacha, Ukwa, and Akidi are some of the most common foods in Anambra. Festivals * Onitsha Ofala Festival; celebrated once a year in October, to mark the climax of the New Yam. * Igu Aro Festival ; annual festival celebrated in Enugu Ukwu to flag off the annual planting season. * Nnewi afiaolu Festival; traditional festival held annually in Nnewi around August. * Imo Awka Festival; usually celebrated between May and June every year, in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State. * Aguleri Ovala Festival; celebrated on the first Eke market day of the year in Aguleri. * Uzoiyi Festival Umuoji; annual cultural festival of the Umuoji people. Music Traditional music in Anambra includes a number of genres such as
Igbo Highlife Igbo highlife is a contemporary musical genre that combines highlife and Igbo traditional music. The genre is primarily guitar-based music, with a rare characteristic blend of horns and vocal rhythms. Igbo highlife lyrics are sung mostly in Igbo ...
, Ogene, Igbo Gospel, Ekpili, etc. Some notable traditional musicians from Anambra includes: Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe, Chief Oliver De Coque, Maduka Morocco, Umu Obiligbo, Flavour, etc. Dance Dance is one of the best ways of self-expression in the Igboland. The most popular dance from the state is Mkpokiti dance. Some of the most popular dances in Anambra include: Atilogwu Dance, Egedege dance, Igbo Ndi Eze, etc. Masquerades Masquerades are mostly active during the festive seasons. Ijele Masquerade is the most popular masquerade from Anambra. Others include: Izaga, Ulaga, Agaba and Aji Busuu.


Religion

Anambra is a
Christian State A Christian state is a country that recognizes a form of Christianity as its official religion and often has a state church (also called an established church), which is a Christian denomination that supports the government and is supported by ...
. The predominant sects in Anambra State include
Catholicism The Catholic Church (), also known as the Roman Catholic Church, is the List of Christian denominations by number of members, largest Christian church, with 1.27 to 1.41 billion baptized Catholics Catholic Church by country, worldwid ...
,
Anglicanism Anglicanism, also known as Episcopalianism in some countries, is a Western Christianity, Western Christian tradition which developed from the practices, liturgy, and identity of the Church of England following the English Reformation, in the ...
, and different sub-divisions of
Pentecostalism Pentecostalism or classical Pentecostalism is a movement within the broader Evangelical wing of Protestantism, Protestant Christianity that emphasizes direct personal experience of God in Christianity, God through Baptism with the Holy Spirit#Cl ...
. The Catholic cathedral is the Cathedral Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, located in
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
. The Catholic Church comprises the Archdiocese of Onitsha under Archbishop Valerian Maduka Okeke, and three suffragan dioceses: Awka – under Bishop Paulinus Chukwuemeka Ezeokafor, Ekwulobia – under Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, and Nnewi – under Bishop Jonas Benson Okoye. The Anglican Cathedral is All Saints Cathedral,
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
. The Anglican Province on the Niger in Onitsha was the original diocese in Nigeria, under Archbishop Owen Chidozie Nwokolo, and includes eight other Dioceses of Awka under Archbishop Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim, Nnewi under Bishop Ndubuisi Obi, Aguata under Archbishop Samuel Ezeofor, Ogbaru under Bishop Prosper Afam Amah, Ihiala under Bishop Israel Kelue Okoye, Niger West under Bishop Johnson Ekwe in Umueri, Mbamili under Bishop Obiora Uzochukwu, Amichi under Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor. Anambra State also has numerous Pentecostal churches like the Assemblies of God Church, Redeemed Church, House on the Rock, Dominion City, Dunamis, Winners' Chapel, and Christ Embassy.


Education


Primary and secondary school

Anambra State Universal Education Board, (ASUBEB) is responsible for the coordination and organization of educational activities, promotion of effective teaching and learning in Anambra State Schools. Education is compulsory from ages six to fifteen. It is required that any parents and guardians must ensure that their child is enrolled in and regularly attends private, public or a combination of schools for the academic session. Anambra is known to be leading in basic education in Nigeria, especially in science and technology. In 2018, five students from Regina Pacis Model Secondary School,
Onitsha Onitsha ( or simply ''Ọ̀nị̀chà'') is a city on the eastern bank of the Niger River, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Onitsha along with various cities and towns in southern Anambra State, northern Imo State and neighboring Delta State on the we ...
, won gold medals at the World Technovation Challenge, held in
Silicon Valley Silicon Valley is a region in Northern California that is a global center for high technology and innovation. Located in the southern part of the San Francisco Bay Area, it corresponds roughly to the geographical area of the Santa Clara Valley ...
,
San Francisco San Francisco, officially the City and County of San Francisco, is a commercial, Financial District, San Francisco, financial, and Culture of San Francisco, cultural center of Northern California. With a population of 827,526 residents as of ...
. In 2019, Anambra State representatives from St. John's Science & Technical College Alor, won bronze at the International Festival of Engineering, Science and Technology I-FEST, held in
Tunisia Tunisia, officially the Republic of Tunisia, is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. It is bordered by Algeria to the west and southwest, Libya to the southeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east. Tunisia also shares m ...
. In 2021, Seven students from Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha defeated over five thousand other teams from around the world to win the Global Prize Award at Diamond Challenge Global Summit. Anambra students have also won series of International and National debate. Some of Anambra Best Secondary Schools include: Christ the King College Onitsha, Dennis Memorial Grammar School Onitsha, Lorreto Special Science School Adazi Nnukwu, Marist Comprehensive College Nteje, All hallows Seminary Onitsha, British Spring College Awka, Queen Of The Rosary College Onitsha, Grundtvig International Secondary School Oba, Mater Amabilis Secondary School Umuoji, St. Charles College Onitsha, Carol Standard Convent Ichi, Dominican Sisters College Abatete, Regina Pacis Model Secondary School Onitsha, St Joseph’s Seminary Special Science School Awka-Etiti, Maria Regina Model Comprehensive Secondary School Nnewi, etc.


Colleges and Universities

Anambra state is a home to number of public and private tertiary institutions. Their activities are overseen by the Anambra state and Federal Ministry of Education.


Public

* The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, which runs a modern teaching hospital in Nnewi with facilities also at Umunya, and Ukpo. There are also a faculty of pharmaceutical sciences at Agulu, a School of Preliminary studies at Mbaukwu, and a College of Agriculture. * The Anambra State University (Officially known as Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, formerly known as Anambra State University of Science and Technology (ASUTECH), with two campuses, one in Uli, and another at Igbariam * The Federal Polytechnic, Oko *The Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze *Nwafor Orizu University of Education (formerly known as the Nwafor Orizu College of Education), Nsugbe *Anambra State Polytechnic, formerly known Anambra State College of Agriculture, Mgbakwu


Private

* Madonna University, Okija, the first Catholic University in Nigeria. * Tansian University,
Umunya Umunya is an Olu Town and one of the five communities that make up Oyi Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State Nigeria. It is bordered by six neighbors: Ifite-Dunu, Awkuzu, Nteje, Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Ogbunike, and Umudioka. In the south ...
* Paul University, Awka * Legacy University, Okija * St Peter's University, Achina * The UA College of Science & Technology Isuofia * The University of America College of Science and Technology. * Grundtvig Polytechnic, Oba * Buckingham Academy of Management and Technology, Ogidi * Onit College of Education, Mbaukwu The literacy rate in the state is comparatively high compared to other states. Anambra State students have won laurels, nationally and internationally in recent times. This is a pointer to the literacy rate of the state, when compared to others. Primary and secondary school enrollment in the state is one of the highest in the country. Consequently, Anambra state has the highest number of
JAMB In architecture Architecture is the art and technique of designing and building, as distinguished from the skills associated with construction. It is both the process and the product of sketching, conceiving, planning, designing, and cons ...
candidates going after the limited number of spaces in Nigeria's tertiary colleges. From 2011/2012 to 2014, its students had the best results in both WAEC and NECO-conducted senior secondary school examinations. Anambra State has some of the best boarding and day secondary schools in Nigeria. The state places a high standard on secondary education.


Health

The successive government of the state had established Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme, to enable people pay a little amount of money for quality healthcare services noting that it is a way of strengthening the health sector and making health services accessible to the people of the State irrespective of their level of income. Notable Health Institutions in Anambra include: * Anambra University Teaching Hospital Awka. * Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital Nnewi * Iyi Enu Hospital Ogidi * St. Borromeo Specialist Hospital Onitsha * Dame Irene Okwuosa Cardiology Hospital Oraifite * Obijackson Children Hospital Okija * Health Research Institute Umuchukwu


Government and politics

The State has a three-tier administrative structure: State, Local and Autonomous community levels. The three arms at state level are the
Executive Executive ( exe., exec., execu.) may refer to: Role or title * Executive, a senior management role in an organization ** Chief executive officer (CEO), one of the highest-ranking corporate officers (executives) or administrators ** Executive dir ...
, the
Legislative A legislature (, ) is a deliberative assembly with the legal authority to make laws for a political entity such as a country, nation or city on behalf of the people therein. They are often contrasted with the executive and judicial powers ...
and the
Judiciary The judiciary (also known as the judicial system, judicature, judicial branch, judiciative branch, and court or judiciary system) is the system of courts that adjudicates legal disputes/disagreements and interprets, defends, and applies the law ...
. The executive arm is headed by an elected governor, who is assisted by a deputy governor, commissioners and executive advisers. Anambra's political history can be described as varied. Until the early 21st century, it was marked by considerable unrest. Having a long list of "firsts" in Nigerian history, it has been known by the sobriquet as, "The Light of The Nation". On 29 May 1999, Chinwoke Mbadinuju was sworn in as civilian governor of Anambra state, after many years of military rule. His administration was plagued by deep problems: the most notable was withholding of teachers' salaries in the school. The teachers finally conducted a ten-month strike in all the government secondary schools in the state. Before Mbadinuju's rule, secondary education had been free of charge. His administration imposed a tuition fee of 3,000
Naira The naira (sign: ₦; code: NGN; , , , ) is the currency of Nigeria. One naira is divided into 100 ''kobo''. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is the sole issuer of legal tender money throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It controls the ...
per term, for all secondary schools, which led to an unprecedented massive demonstration by secondary school students from all over the state. Many people attribute Mbadinuju's failure to political godfathers; his successor also struggled. On 26 May 2003, Chris Ngige was sworn in as the new governor of the state, but he was removed in March 2006 after Peter Obi of APGA filed charges against him of electoral malpractice. The Court of Appeal in Enugu asserted that Ngige's apparent victory in the 2003 election was fraudulent and ordered him to leave the seat. Obi was ousted by a faction of the Anambra State House of Assembly on 2 November 2006 and replaced by Virginia Etiaba, his deputy. On 9 February 2007, Etiaba handed power back to Obi after the Court of Appeal had nullified Obi's removal. On 14 April 2007, Andy Uba of PDP was "elected" as the new governor of the state and, on 29 May, was sworn in. Reported to be massively rigged, the election was widely criticised. On 14 June 2007 the Supreme Court of Nigeria ruled that Peter Obi's tenure had not ended; therefore, there was no vacancy in the governorship. It removed Andy Uba from office and replaced him with his predecessor Obi. On 6 February 2010, Peter Obi was re-elected governor for a second term of four years, after a hot contest with Chris Ngige, a former governor of the state; Prof. Charles Soludo, a former governor of the
Central Bank of Nigeria The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is the central bank and apex monetary authority of Nigeria established by the CBN Act of 1958 and commenced operations on 1 July 1959. The major regulatory objectives of the bank as stated in the CBN Act are t ...
; and Andy Uba, who was a strong voice in the state's politics. Other contenders included Mrs Uche Ekwunife, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, and many others. Twenty-five contestants ran for the office. Obi was affirmed as the winner of the election, having more than 30% votes above the immediate runner-up. Chief
Willie Obiano Willie Obiano (born August 8, 1955) is a Nigerian politician, banker and technocrat. He was the 4th Governor of Anambra State from 17 March 2014 to 17 March 2022. Early life Governor Obiano was born at Aguleri, a town in Anambra State, East ...
was sworn in on 17 March 2014 after winning the 16 November 2013 election. Governor
Willie Obiano Willie Obiano (born August 8, 1955) is a Nigerian politician, banker and technocrat. He was the 4th Governor of Anambra State from 17 March 2014 to 17 March 2022. Early life Governor Obiano was born at Aguleri, a town in Anambra State, East ...
of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) was sworn in for a second term in office on 17 March 2018 after the victory at 18 November 2017 elections. He handed over to Charles Soludo, winner of the 9 November 2021 gubernatorial election in Anambra state on 17 March 2022.


Media

Notable media houses in Anambra include:


Television

* Anambra Broadcasting Service TV * NTA Channel 5 Awka * NTA Onitsha


Radio

* ABS 88.5FM * Brilla Sports 88.9FM * Wazobia 93.7FM * Sapientia 93.5FM * Blaze 91.5FM * City Radio 89.7FM


Newspaper

* National Light Newspaper


Sports

The most popular sport in the state is football. Anambra is home to a number of professional sports teams: the Ifeanyi Ubah FC of NPFL, the NPFL champion Udoji United FC, and Anambra Pillars FC. Some notable stadiums include: Ifeanyi Ubah International Stadium Nnewi, Awka City Stadium, Chuba Ikpeazu Memorial Stadium Onitsha, etc.


Electoral system

The electoral system of each state is selected using a modified two-round system. To be elected in the first round, a candidate must receive the plurality of the vote and over 25% of the vote in at least two -third of the State local government Areas. If no candidate passes threshold, a second round will be held between the top candidate and the next candidate to have received a plurality of votes in the highest number of local government areas.


Notable people

''Political Figures'' * Dr.
Nnamdi Azikiwe Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe, (16 November 1904 – 11 May 1996), commonly referred to as Zik of Africa, was a Nigerian politician, statesman, and revolutionary leader who served as the 3rd and first black governor-general of Nigeria from 1960 ...
– 3rd Governor General of Nigeria; 1st
President of Nigeria The president of Nigeria, officially the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is the head of state and head of government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The president directs the executive branch of the Federal Government an ...
; and the father of Nigerian Nationalism * Dr. Alex Ekwueme – from Oko town; politician; architect; first Executive Vice-president of Nigeria, serving 1979–1983 * Dim Emeka Ojukwu – native of Nnewi, the leader of the secessionist
Biafra Biafara Anglicisation (linguistics), anglicized as Biafra ( ), officially the Republic of Biafra, was a List of historical unrecognized states and dependencies, partially recognised state in West Africa that declared independence from Nigeria ...
Republic * Emeka Anyaoku – first black
Secretary-General Secretary is a title often used in organizations to indicate a person having a certain amount of authority, Power (social and political), power, or importance in the organization. Secretaries announce important events and communicate to the org ...
of the
Commonwealth A commonwealth is a traditional English term for a political community founded for the common good. The noun "commonwealth", meaning "public welfare, general good or advantage", dates from the 15th century. Originally a phrase (the common-wealth ...
and recipient of South Africa's Order of the Companions of Oliver Reginald Tambo for his role in initiating talks between the apartheid state and the
African National Congress The African National Congress (ANC) is a political party in South Africa. It originated as a liberation movement known for its opposition to apartheid and has governed the country since 1994, when the 1994 South African general election, fir ...
* Nwafor Orizu – hails from Nnewi, Nnewi South; 3rd Senate President of Nigeria and Acting
President of Nigeria The president of Nigeria, officially the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is the head of state and head of government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The president directs the executive branch of the Federal Government an ...
(1965–1966) * Dr. Senator Chuba Wilberforce Okadigbo (1941–2003) – native of
Ogbunike Ogbunike is a town in the Oyi local government area of Anambra State, Nigeria. There are markets in Ogbunike. These include Plastic Products Dealers Society International Market Ogbunike. It is a suburb of Onitsha. Location It is located abou ...
;
president of the Senate of Nigeria The president of the Nigerian Senate is the presiding officer of the Senate of Nigeria, elected by its membership. The senate president is second in line of succession to the President of Nigeria, Nigerian presidency, after the Vice President of ...
* Dora Akunyili – ex-head of NAFDAC, and former Nigeria Minister of Information, won international awards for cleansing Nigeria of the scourge of fake drugs *Sir Clement Akpamgbo, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice between 1991 and 1993, President of the Nigerian Bar Association in 1991, and one of Nigeria's first indigenous law teachers. * Chief P.N. Okeke-Ojiudu – politician and businessman and the first minister of agriculture in the Nigerian first republic. * Chukwuemeka Ezeife – former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential Adviser on Political Matters to President * Dr Chris Ngige- former Governor of Anambra State * Peter Obi- Former governor of Anambra State * Professor Humphrey Nwobu Nwosu – professor of political science; former NEC chairman; conducted the freest, fairest and most credible election so far in Nigeria * Chief
Willie Obiano Willie Obiano (born August 8, 1955) is a Nigerian politician, banker and technocrat. He was the 4th Governor of Anambra State from 17 March 2014 to 17 March 2022. Early life Governor Obiano was born at Aguleri, a town in Anambra State, East ...
- Former governor of Anambra State. * Chinwoke Mbadinuju- Former governor of Anambra State * Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo –economist who spearheaded Nigerian economic reform from 1999 to 2008; ex-head of the Central Bank of Nigeria * Lieutenant-General Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor – military advisor, Assistant Secretary General Office of Military Affairs, UN Office of Peacekeeping Operations, commander of the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Artillery Brigade in Liberia in 1996 and 1997 * Senator Victor Umeh - former National Chairman of APGA and the senator of the Federal Republic in the 10th senate. * Oseloka H. Obaze (born 1955) – diplomat, politician and author * Ukpabi Asika – political scientist and administrator from Onitsha; East Central State administrator during and after the
Nigerian Civil War The Nigerian Civil War (6 July 1967 – 15 January 1970), also known as the Biafran War, Nigeria-Biafra War, or Biafra War, was fought between Nigeria and the Republic of Biafra, a Secession, secessionist state which had declared its independen ...
* Chief Jerome Udoji – from Ozubulu; social reformer; first African to be made a District Officer by the Colonial Administration. *
Chi Onwurah Dame Chinyelu Susan "Chi" Onwurah (; born 12 April 1965) is a British politician who has served as Member of Parliament (United Kingdom), Member of Parliament (MP) for Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West (UK Parliament constituency), Newcastle ...
– British Labour Party politician, elected at the 2010 general election as the Member of Parliament for
Newcastle-upon-Tyne Newcastle upon Tyne, or simply Newcastle ( , Received Pronunciation, RP: ), is a City status in the United Kingdom, cathedral city and metropolitan borough in Tyne and Wear, England. It is England's northernmost metropolitan borough, located o ...
Central, becoming the first female British MP of African origin *
Chuka Umunna Chuka Harrison Umunna (; born 17 October 1978) is a British businessman and former politician who served as Member of Parliament (MP) for Streatham from 2010 until 2019. A former member of the Labour Party, he was part of the Shadow Cabine ...
– British Labour Party Member of Parliament for Streatham constituency * Augustine Aniebo - Retired General and Military Administrator * Judith Amaechi - Former First Lady of
Rivers State Rivers is a states of Nigeria, state in the Niger Delta region of southern Nigeria (Old Eastern Region). Formed on 27 May 1967, when it was split from the former Eastern Region, Nigeria, Eastern Region, Rivers State borders include Imo State, Im ...
* Ejike Obumneme Aghanya - Retired Military Officer ''Authors'' * Professor
Chinua Achebe Chinua Achebe (; born Albert Chinụalụmọgụ Achebe; 16 November 1930 – 21 March 2013) was a Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic who is regarded as a central figure of modern African literature. His first novel ''Things Fall Apart'' ( ...
– native of Ogidi and best known for the classic, ''
Things Fall Apart ''Things Fall Apart'' is a 1958 novel by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. It is Achebe's debut novel and was written when he was working at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. The novel was first published in London by Heinemann (publisher), ...
''; first African writer whose books are standard curricula in schools and universities across the world * Chimamanda Adichie – writer, won the Orange Prize for Fiction (2007) and a MacArthur Foundation Fellowship (2008). She is one of 21st century most influential author * Cyprian EkwensiMFR, writer of international repute * Christopher Okigbo - Poet * Teresa Meniru - writer * Ifeoma Onyefulu - Novelist * Chukwuemeka Ike – writer of many books including ''Toads for Supper'', ''Bottled Leopard'', and ''Expo 77''; hails from Ndikelionwu in Anambra State; was the traditional ruler Ikelionwu XI; first registrar of the West African Examination Council * Joy Chinwe Eyisi - Author and Teacher * Ifeoma Okoye novelist * Okwui Enwezor - Curator and Poet * Adaeze Atuegwu - author and disability inclusive advocate * Nkem Nwankwo - Novelist * Obi Egbuna - Writer and Activist * Chukwuemeka Ike - Writer and Monarch * Emeka Nwabueze - Playwright and Researcher ''Actors, Actresses, Film Directors, TV Hosts and Journalists'' * Pete Edochie - A Veteran in the Nigerian Film Industry and a Nollywood Icon. * Amaechi Muonagor - Nollywood actor and producer. * Ngozi Ezeonu - Actress and Journalist. * Bob-Manuel Udokwu - ''Lifetime Achievement'' award winner at the 10th Africa Movie Academy Awards. *
Jim Iyke James Ikechukwu Esomugha, popularly known as Jim Iyke (born 25 September 1976), is a Nigerian actor and one of the stars of the movie ''Last Flight to Abuja''. Early life and education He was born in Libreville, Gabon. His parents, from Ogw ...
- Nollywood Icon *
Chidi Mokeme Chidi Mokeme (born 17 March 1972) is a Nigerian actor and reality show host. He hails from Oba in Idemili South, Idemili South LGA of Anambra State, southeastern Nigeria. He was the host of ''Gulder Ultimate Search'' reality show. Early life ...
- actor and ex host of the '' Gulder Ultimate Search'' Reality-show. * Chika Ike - winner of the Actors Guild of Nigeria(AGN) Award for ''Most Disciplined Actress.'' * Chioma Chukwuka - actress and movie producer, winner of the Africa Movie Academy Award for ''Best Actress in a leading role'', winner of the Afro Hollywood award for ''Best actress in a lead role.'' * Tony Umez - Actor * Ebuka Obi-Uchendu - Big Brother Naija and ''Rubbing minds'' host. * Ikechukwu Onyeka - Film Director * Okechukwu Oku - Film Producer * Chioma Okoye - Actress and Producer. * Ebube Nwagbo - Actress * Kalu Ikeagwu - Actor * Adaora Onyechere - journalist * Josh2Funny - Comedian * Chika Oduah - Journalist * Ken Erics – multi-award-winning Nollywood actor, producer, CEO of KEN ERICS Productions, writer and occasional musician. * Frederick Leonard - Actor * Nuella Njubigbo - Actress and Scriptwriter * Oge Okoye - Actress * Yul Edochie - Actor and Director ''Educators, Inventors and Scientists'' * Professor
Kenneth Dike Kenneth Onwuka Dike (17 December 1917 – 26 October 1983) was a Nigerian educationist, historian and the first Nigerian Vice-Chancellor of the nation's premier college, the University of Ibadan. During the Nigerian civil war, he moved to H ...
– pre-eminent scholar of African History and native of Awka; first indigenous vice-chancellor of the
University of Ibadan The University of Ibadan (UI) is a public university located in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Initially founded as the University College Ibadan in 1948, it maintained its affiliation with the University of London. In 1962, it became an independe ...
and founder of the National Archives * Philip Emeagwali – winner of the 1989 Gordon Bell Prize for supercomputing * Professor Chike Obi – mathematician known for his work on non-differential equations; won the 1985 ICTP Prize and developed a special solution for Fermat's last theorem; * Professor Samuel Okoye – black Africa's first PhD in radio astronomy; with
Antony Hewish Antony Hewish (11 May 1924 – 13 September 2021) was a British radio astronomer who won the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1974 (together with fellow radio-astronomer Martin Ryle) for his role in the discovery of pulsars. He was also awarded the ...
of the
University of Cambridge The University of Cambridge is a Public university, public collegiate university, collegiate research university in Cambridge, England. Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is the List of oldest universities in continuous operation, wo ...
, discovered the radio source of Crab Nebula neutron star. * Fabian Udekwu (1928–2006) – professor of surgery and trailblazer of open heart surgery in Africa * Pius Okigbo, CON – economist; first economic advisor to the Federal government of Nigeria (1960–1962); first Nigerian Ambassador to the European Community; known for bringing to light to over $12 billion missing in oil windfall receipts from the Central Bank of Nigeria during the first Gulf War. * Chinyere Stella Okunna – first Nigerian female professor in mass communication * Tessy Okoli - Provost * Kenneth Ofokansi- Professor of Pharmaceutics * Pius Nwankwo Okeke - Professor of Physics, Astronomer and Educator * Walter Enwezor - Agriculturalist, Professor of Soil Sciences * Grace Chibiko Offorma - researcher * Bennet Omalu - physician, forensic pathologist and neuropathologist who was the first to discover and publish findings on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). * John Anenechukwu Umeh - first Professor of Estate Management in Africa and Asia. * Gordian Ezekwe - Mechanical Engineer and Inventor * Kathleen Okafor - Professor of Property and Commercial law * Timothy Uzochukwu Obi - Veterinary Professor * Prof. Lazarus Ekwueme - First Nigerian Professor of Music. * Chichi Menakaya - Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon ''Musicians'' * Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe – Nigerian
highlife Highlife is a Ghanaian music genre that originated along the coastal cities of present-day Ghana in the 19th century, during its Gold Coast (region), history as a colony of the British and through its trade routes in coastal areas. It encompasse ...
musician; holds the Nigerian record for the highest selling album. * Chief Oliver De Coque – Nigerian highlife musician and guitarist *
P-Square P-Square are a Nigerian music duo composed of the twin brothers Mr. P (singer), Peter Okoye and Rudeboy (singer), Paul Okoye, who co-write and co-produce most of their songs. Noted for their artistic reinvention, musical versatility, and Visual a ...
– Nigerian music duo consisting of twin brothers from Ifitedunu * Flavour – singer and songwriter from Umunze *
Ckay Chukwuka Chukwuma Ekweani (born 16 July 1995), better known by his stage name Ckay (stylized as CKay), is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer signed to Boyfriend Music, Warner Music Africa (formerly known as; Warner Music South Afr ...
- A singer known for his international hit single " Love Nwantiti" *
Phyno Chibuzo Nelson Azubuike (; born 9 October 1986), who is known professionally as Phyno, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter and record producer. Phyno was born and raised in Enugu State but is a native of Anambra State. He started his musi ...
(Chibuzo Nelson Azubuike) - Igbo rapper. * Wilberforce Echezona - Musicologist * Echezonachukwu Nduka - Pianist and musicologist * Emeka Nwokedi – conductor and music director ''Business Executives'' * Cletus Ibeto – industrialist and businessman from Nnewi * Blord – Nigerian cryptocurrency entrepreneur * Godwin Maduka – doctor, businessman, philanthropist, founder of Las Vegas Pain Institute and Medical Center * Emeka Offor – chairman of Chrome Group * JohnBosco Onunkwo - Founder, Johnbosco Onunkwo Foundation * Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu – native of Nnewi; first Nigerian millionaire and first president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange * Azikiwe Peter Onwualu – former director general and chief executive officer of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council. * Allen Onyema – chairman of Air Peace * Oscar N. OnyemaOON, chief executive officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and chairman of Central Securities Clearing System. * Omu Okwei - Merchant queen of the Niger River * C. T. Onyekwelu - Businessman, Pioneer of Recording Industry in Nigeria * Stella Chinyelu Okoli - Founder of Emzor pharmaceutical manufacturing company * Mathias Ugochukwu - Industrialist * Cosmas Maduka - Founder of Coscharis Group * Daniel Chukwudozie - chairman, Dozzy Group of Companies * Lady Ada Chukwudozie - Executive director of Dozzy Oil and Gas Limited. * Paul O - Record Executive and Event Promoter * Obi Cubanna - Founder of Cubanna group * Chris Ubosi - Managing Director, Megalectrics Limited ''Artists and Illustrators'' * Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy MBE – London-based artist; first black artist to paint a portrait of
Queen Elizabeth II Elizabeth II (Elizabeth Alexandra Mary; 21 April 19268 September 2022) was Queen of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms from 6 February 1952 until Death and state funeral of Elizabeth II, her death in 2022. ...
; one of the UK Women of the Year in 2002 and 2003; represented the UK at the
Council of Europe The Council of Europe (CoE; , CdE) is an international organisation with the goal of upholding human rights, democracy and the Law in Europe, rule of law in Europe. Founded in 1949, it is Europe's oldest intergovernmental organisation, represe ...
; in 2009 she was made an MBE * Professor Ben Enwonwu – native of Onitsha; first Nigerian sculptor of international repute with artwork gracing the United Nations headquarters * Professor Uche Okeke – native of Nimo; one of the foremost Nigerian fine artists; founder of the Uli movement * Chike Aniakor - Painter * Obiora Udechukwu - Painter * Uche Okeke - Painter ''Beauty Pageants'' * Sylvia Nduka - Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2011,
Miss World 2011 Miss World 2011 was the 61st edition of the Miss World pageant, held at the Earls Court Two in London, United Kingdom, on 6 November 2011. Alexandria Mills of the United States crowned Ivian Sarcos of Venezuela as her successor at the en ...
Nigeria representative. *
Fiona Amuzie-Iredu Fiona Afoma Amuzie-Iredu is a Nigerian actress, TV host, model, psychologist and beauty pageant titleholder. She is the winner of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) 2010 pageant and the Nigeria contestant at the Miss World 2010. She is ...
- Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2010,
Miss World 2010 Miss World 2010 was the 60th anniversary of the Miss World pageant, held at the Crown of Beauty Theatre in Sanya, China, on 30 October 2010, after Vietnam backed out of the hosting contract. Kaiane Aldorino of Gibraltar crowned Alexandria ...
Nigeria representative. * Adaeze Igwe - Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2008, Miss World 2008 Nigeria representative, wife of former Nigerian football team captain Joseph Yobo. * Lynda Chuba - Miss Africa 1987, 2nd Nigerian to represent Nigeria in Miss Universe 1987 after a 23-year absence of the country in the pageant. * Collete Nwadike - winner of the Exquisite Face of the Universe Pageant and winner of Miss Tourism Nigeria 2014. * Precious Chikwendu - Model ''Religious Figures'' * Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi (born in Aguleri, Anambra State, 1903 – died Leicester, England, 1964) – ordained a Roman Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Onitsha, Nigeria; later a Cistercian monk at Mount Saint Bernard Monastery in England; Pope John Paul II
beatified Beatification (from Latin , "blessed" and , "to make") is a recognition accorded by the Catholic Church of a deceased person's entrance into Heaven and capacity to intercede on behalf of individuals who pray in their name. ''Beati'' is the ...
him in 1998 * Cardinal Francis Arinze – once considered a potential
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* Peter Cardinal Okpaleke - Roman Catholic Cardinal. *
Henry Ndukuba Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba (born 18 July 1961) is the current Primate of the Church of Nigeria. Prior to his appointment, he was Archbishop of Jos and Bishop of Gombe. Biography Henry Ndukuba was born in a Christian home in Anambra State. His par ...
- Primate of
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* Godfrey Okoye - First Bishop of Port Harcourt Diocese and * Valerian Okeke - Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha * Ebube Muonso – religious leader ''Sports'' * Mikel John Obi * Alex Iwobi * Daniel Akpeyi * Chidi Okeke * Amobi Okoye * Victor Anichebe * Uche Nwofor * Caleb Ekwegwo ''Monarchs'' * Eze Nri * Igwe Nnewi *
Obi of Onitsha The Obi of Onitsha is the traditional leader of Onitsha, Anambra State, southeast Nigeria. The post of the Obi is recognized by the state and federal government of Nigeria, and the Obi is seen as a representative of the people of Onitsha to the ...


See also

* Anam *
Uli, Anambra Uli is a town of historic importance situated at the extreme southeast corner of Ihiala local government area of Anambra state in Nigeria. Its closest neighbouring towns are Amaofuo, Ihiala, Amorka, Ubulu, Ozara, Imo State, Ozara, Egbuoma and ...
* Nibo


References


External links


Government


State Government website

Anambra Judicial system


Culture and history


Anambra Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism

Anambra Magazine
{{Authority control States of Nigeria States in Igboland States and territories established in 1991