Abia State
God's Own State
Abia State is known for its commercial activities, particularly in Aba, a major trading hub. It has a rich cultural heritage and is developing its agricultural and industrial sectors.
Basic Information
Capital:Umuahia
Current Governor:Alex Otti
Brief History:Abia State was created in 1991 from part of Imo State. It is one of the nine states in the Niger Delta region.
Origin of Name:The name "Abia" is an acronym from the four main groups of people in the state as at the time it was formed in 1991: Aba, Bende, Isuikwuato and Afikpo.
Population:Over 3.7 million (estimate)
Land Area:6,320 km²
Official Website:https://www.abiastate.gov.ng/
Culture & Lifestyle
Cultural Aspects:
- Ekpe festival
- New Yam festival (Iri Ji)
- Traditional wrestling
Local Cuisine:
- Ofe Nsala
- Abacha (African Salad)
- Ukwa (Breadfruit Porridge)
Predominant Languages:
- Igbo
- English
Business & Economy
Key Industries:
- Commerce
- Agriculture (palm oil, cassava, rice)
- Textiles
- Crude oil
Economic Opportunities:
- Agro-processing
- Manufacturing
- Real estate
Investment Potential:
- Light manufacturing
- Tourism development
Security
Generally stable, with standard precautions advised in urban areas.
Getting There
Road Networks:
- Well-connected by federal and state roads.
Notes:Nearest major airport is Sam Mbakwe Airport in Owerri, Imo State.
Tourist Attractions
National War Museum, Umuahia
Contains relics of the Nigerian Civil War.