Anambra State is a vibrant and historic state in southeastern Nigeria, known for its rich culture, dynamic economy, and deep-rooted history as the cradle of Igbo civilization. Despite being one of Nigeria’s smallest states in landmass, it remains a powerhouse of commerce, education, and cultural pride.
History
Anambra State was created on August 27, 1991, after the old Anambra State was split into Anambra and Enugu states. It was part of the former Eastern Region and later East Central State. Historically, Anambra is regarded as the heart of Igbo civilization, with the Nri Kingdom serving as the spiritual headquarters of the Igbo people for centuries. Legends trace the origins of Anambra’s first settlers to Eri, a figure deeply embedded in Igbo mythology and oral traditions.
Geography
Located in southeastern Nigeria, Anambra shares borders with Delta State (west), Imo and Rivers States (south), Enugu State (east), and Kogi State (north). The state covers approximately 4,844 km². Its geography features lowlands, riverine belts, and fertile agricultural plains, with the Niger River and Anambra River being major waterways.
Administrative Division
Anambra State consists of 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs), including:
- Awka South
- Awka North
- Onitsha North
- Onitsha South
- Nnewi North
- Nnewi South
- Ihiala
- Aguata
- Others (full list available in administrative records)
Capital: Awka
Major Cities: Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia
Economy
Anambra’s economy thrives on trade, manufacturing, agriculture, and emerging oil production. Onitsha Main Market, one of the largest in West Africa, anchors the state’s commerce, while Nnewi leads in automotive parts manufacturing. Agriculture (rice, yam, cassava, palm oil) remains significant, and newly discovered petroleum reserves have positioned Anambra as a growing oil-producing state.
Infrastructure and Urbanization
Urban centers like Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi are rapidly expanding. Infrastructure projects include shopping malls, housing estates, industrial parks, and improved rural electrification. However, challenges persist in rural communities requiring more infrastructure development.
Transportation
- Roads: Connected by major expressways like Enugu–Onitsha and Onitsha–Owerri.
- Bridges: The Niger Bridge links Onitsha to Asaba and western Nigeria.
- Airport: Anambra International Cargo Airport, Umueri, operational since 2021.
- Ports: Onitsha Inland Port (underutilized but strategic).
Culture and Tourism
Anambra is a hub of Igbo cultural pride, traditional institutions, and festivals. Key cultural attractions include:
- Nri Kingdom: Ancient spiritual homeland of the Igbo people.
- Ogbunike Caves: UNESCO Heritage nominee.
- Ofala Festival: Celebrated annually by Onitsha monarchy and others.
- New Yam Festivals: Celebrated in nearly every town.
- Igboukwu Artifacts: Evidence of ancient metal casting and complex civilization.
Religion
Christianity is the dominant religion in Anambra, primarily Catholicism and Anglicanism. Pentecostal churches have expanded rapidly. Traditional religious practices exist but are less common today, mostly practiced by older generations.
Education
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam
- Federal Polytechnic, Oko
- Numerous missionary and private educational institutions.
Anambra has one of the highest literacy rates in Nigeria.
Health
Healthcare infrastructure includes teaching hospitals like Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital in Awka, alongside general hospitals in Onitsha, Ekwulobia, and Nnewi, plus numerous private clinics. The state is a leader in child immunization programs.
Government and Politics
Current Governor: Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo (APGA)
Deputy Governor: Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim
Anambra is known for high political awareness and active voter engagement. The state has been a stronghold for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), though PDP and APC maintain influence.
Media
- Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS)
- Blaze FM, Minaj Broadcasting, Authority FM, and others
- Numerous digital media outlets and community newspapers
Sports
- Grassroots football leagues and academies
- Traditional wrestling competitions (Mgba)
- Youth tournaments in athletics and football
Electoral System
Anambra uses the democratic system of government based on regular elections for Governor, House of Assembly, and Local Government Councils. Governorship elections are held off-cycle compared to national polls, making Anambra a political bellwether state.
Notable People
- Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe – First President of Nigeria
- Chinua Achebe – World-renowned author (*Things Fall Apart*)
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu – Biafran leader
- Charles Soludo – Economist and current Governor
- Peter Obi – Former Governor and 2023 Presidential Candidate
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – Internationally acclaimed writer
- Tony Elumelu – Entrepreneur and philanthropist
- Emeka Anyaoku – Former Commonwealth Secretary-General
See Also
- History of the Igbo people
- Nri Kingdom
- Ogbunike Caves
- List of Governors of Anambra State
- List of Nigerian States by Population
References
- Anambra State Government Official Website
- Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics
- UNESCO World Heritage Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica – Anambra State
External Links
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