Anambra State, Nigeria: An Overview

1. Creation and Geography:

• Established: August 27, 1991 (carved out from the old Anambra State, which was created in 1976 from the East Central State).

• Capital: Awka.

• Major Cities: Onitsha (commercial hub), Nnewi (industrial center), and Ekwulobia.

• Borders: Delta (west), Imo and Rivers (south), Enugu (east), and Kogi (north).

• Landscape: Fertile plains, the Niger River, and the Anambra River. Notable natural features include the Ogbunike Caves and Agulu Lake.

2. Demographics:

• Population: Estimated at 5.5 million (2023), with one of Nigeria's highest population densities.

• Ethnicity: Predominantly Igbo, with the Igbo language widely spoken.

3. Economy:

• Commerce: Onitsha hosts the Onitsha Main Market, West Africa's largest. Nnewi is known for auto manufacturing (e.g, Innoson Motors).

• Agriculture: Key crops include yam, cassava, and rice.

• Resources: Oil and gas reserves in areas like Ogbaru.

4. Culture and Heritage:

• Festivals: Ofala Festival (celebrated by the Obi of Onitsha), New Yam Festival (Iri Ji).

• Traditional Attire: Isiagu and wrappers.

• Notable Figures: Chinua Achebe (author), Peter Obi (former governor), and Charles Soludo (current governor).

5. Education:

• Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK): Located in Awka, a major tertiary institution.

6. Politics:

• Current Governor: Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo (inaugurated in 2022), focusing on economic revival and security.

• Previous Leaders: Peter Obi (2006 - 2014), known for fiscal prudence.

7. Security Challenges:

• Issues: Occasional kidnappings, separatist activities (e.g., IPOB), and enforcement of sit-at-home orders.

• Responses: Enhanced security measures under Soludo's administration.

8. Tourism:

• Attractions: Niger River bridges, Agulu Lake, and Ogbunike Caves.

9. Motto: "Light of the Nation," reflecting aspirations for leadership and innovation.

10. Recent Developments: 

• Soludo's initiatives include infrastructure upgrades, vocational training programs, and efforts to attract investment.