Igbo states in Nigeria
What do you know about Igbo states in Nigeria? If your knowledge on this subject is quite limited, then let us tell you about the states where Igbo people consider their home-states and offer you some facts about these states. Check it out!
What states in Nigeria are Igbo?
According to the Igbo history, Igboland stretches across Southeastern Nigeria. It is surrounded by large rivers on all sides, and the river Niger runs right through it. Therefore, predominantly Igbo states are Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra and Abia.
It can also be said that parts of Rivers, Delta and Benue states are also Igbo. Some traces of Igbo culture can even be found in Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states. Major Igbo cities include Aba, Asaba, Abakaliki, Enugu, Onitsha, Owerri and Port Harcourt.
Over the years, the borders of Igboland changed tremendously, which is not surprising, taking into account that the earliest Igbo settlements in the area date all the way back to 6000 BCE. There have been migrations, colonialism and wars (including the most recent civil war), but it is still standing strong to this day, albeit as a remnant of the past.
Facts about each Igbo state
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Before you go, take a few minutes to learn some interesting facts about the states where Igbo people are most prevalent.
- Imo State. It is known for being the home of the rolling hills of Okigwe, a major tourist attraction in Nigeria. Imo also has one of the largest palm plantations in the whole of West Aftica (Ada Palm Plantation Complex).
- Enugu State. The name Enugu actually comes from the Igbo phrase Énú Ụ́gwụ́, which means ‘hill top’. The state is the home of many notable Nigerians, such as Patience Ozokwor, Pete Edochie, Jay Jay Okocha, Phyno and many others.
- Ebonyi State. There are nine languages spoken in Ebonyi: Ezaa, Afikpo, Izzi, Mgbo, Ikwo, Legbo, Kukele, Oring and Mbembe. They are all subgroups of the Igbo language. Ebonyi State is known as the ‘Salt of the Nation’ because it has large salt deposits.
- Anambra State. This is the second most densely populated state in the country after Lagos. It was originally called Oma Mbala after the river of the same name. The state is known for great craftsmanship. It also has some wonderful natural tourist attractions, such as the Ogbunike Caves and the Agulu Crocodile Lake.
- Abia State. Abia is referred to as ‘God’s Own State’. It is famous for many things, especially its Ariaria International Market, which is the biggest in South-Eastern Nigeria. The state is also known for its natural attractions, such as the Azumini Blue River, Amakama Wooden Cave and the Long Juju of Arochukwu.
That is all we can tell you about Igbo states in Nigeria. If there is anything else you would like to know, let us know in the comments. We would love to hear from you.
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Source: Legit.ng
