Abia State, known as "God's Own State," is located in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Administratively created in 1991 from the eastern half of the former Imo State, Abia is a vibrant region with a rich history, diverse geography, and thriving economy.
The state is bordered by several other Nigerian states, including Enugu and Ebonyi to the north and northeast, Akwa Ibom to the east and southeast, Rivers to the south and southwest, and Imo and Anambra to the west. This strategic location makes Abia a significant hub for trade and commerce in the region.
The name "Abia" is an acronym derived from the initials of four of the state's most densely populated regions: Aba, Bende, Isuikwuato, and Afikpo. Afikpo was later joined with a part of Enugu state to create Ebonyi state in 1996.
Abia is the only Southeastern state that has boundaries with the other four Southeastern states in Nigeria.
Read also: Infrastructure Development in Abia
Location of Abia State in Nigeria
Historical Overview
The history of Abia State is deeply intertwined with the broader narrative of the Igbo people and the evolution of Nigeria as a nation.
In the pre-colonial period, the area that now constitutes Abia State was part of the Arochukwu-based Aro Confederacy. This powerful confederacy played a significant role in trade and politics in the region until its defeat by British troops in the early 1900s during the Anglo-Aro War.
Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, Abia became part of the Eastern Region. In 1967, the Eastern Region attempted to secede, leading to the Nigerian Civil War, during which Abia was part of the secessionist state of Biafra.
After the war, the region was reintegrated into Nigeria, and Abia became part of the East Central State until 1976 when Imo State (including present-day Abia) was formed. Finally, in 1991, Abia State was created as a separate entity.
Read also: A Look at Abia State
At statehood in 1991, Abia was ruled by Ibrahim Babangida-appointed Military Administrator Frank Ajobena before Ogbonnaya Onu was elected governor later that year under the Third Nigerian Republic. Onu governed for nearly two years before Sani Abacha ended the Third Republic and reinstated full military rule. Under the Abacha regime, three more Military Administrators (Chinyere Ike Nwosu, Temi Ejoor, and Moses Fasanya) were appointed before Abacha's death and the accession of Abdulsalami Abubakar.
In 1999, Nigeria returned to democracy, and Orji Uzor Kalu was elected governor on the platform of the People's Democratic Party. Consequently, he was sworn in on 29 May 1999. In 2003, when it was time for fresh elections, Kalu re-contested on the platform of the PDP and got a second mandate to govern (the Constitution of Nigeria limits Governors to two terms in office). At the end of Kalu's term in 2007, Theodore Orji (PPA) defeated Onyema Ugochukwu (PDP) in the 2007 gubernatorial election, to become Abia's next Governor.
Geography and Climate
Abia State occupies approximately 4,902 square kilometers. The southernmost part of the State lies within the Niger Delta Swamp Forests, while the rest of the state, lies within the Cross-Niger transition forests. The southern portion gets heavy rainfall of about 2,400 millimetres (94 in) per year and it is intense between the months of April through October.
The state's geography is diverse, ranging from the Niger Delta swamp forests in the south to the drier Cross-Niger transition forests and savanna in the rest of the state. This varied landscape supports a wide range of flora and fauna.
Aba experiences a warm and gloomy wet season as well as a scorching and oppressive dry season. In Aba, the rainy season is warm and cloudy, the dry season is hot and largely gloomy, and the climate is uncomfortable all year long.
Read also: Finding Hotels in Umuahia
Temperatures usually stay between 20°C (68°F) and 31°C (88°F). The best time to visit Aba for outdoor activities in warm weather is from late November to early February.
Demographics and Culture
The Igbo people constitute the majority (95%) of Abia State's population. Their traditional language, Igbo, is widely spoken, while English serves as the official language for governance and business.
Christianity is the dominant religion in Abia State, with over 3 million adherents. The state is home to numerous churches and religious organizations, reflecting the deep faith of its people.
Decentralized Kingdoms and Vibrant Traditions: The Story of Igbo
Abia State has produced many famous people who have made a difference in different fields.
Economy and Resources
Abia State's economy is driven by several key sectors, including crude oil and natural gas production, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Crude oil and gas production is a prominent activity, as it contributes over 39% of the State's GDP. The state produces approximately 36,000 barrels of crude oil per day, with significant contributions from the Imoturu and Isimili flow stations.
Representing 27% of the GDP, agriculture - which employs 70% of the state workforce - is the second economic sector of Abia. With its adequate seasonal rainfall, Abia has much arable land that produces yams, maize, potatoes, rice, cashews, plantains, taro, and cassava.
The manufacturing sector is concentrated in Aba, the state's commercial hub. Key industries include textile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, soap, plastics, cement, footwear, and cosmetics.
Key Economic Data
| Sector | Contribution to GDP | Workforce Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Oil and Natural Gas | 39% | - |
| Agriculture | 27% | 70% |
| Manufacturing | 2% | - |
Aba Market, Abia State
Transportation and Infrastructure
Abia State is well-connected to other parts of Nigeria through a network of roads, railways, and airports.
The nearest airport to Abia State is Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport (Owerri Airport), which is about an hour's drive to Umuahia and Aba. Port Harcourt International Airport is about two hours away. Akwa Ibom Airport(Akwa Ibom State) can also serve would-be visitors.
Rail transport is also available and useful in the state. Aba is connected to Port Harcourt by rail. Umuahia is connected to Aba and Enugu by rail.
Education
Abia State's public and private secondary schools, according to a document by the Ministry of Education, had a student-teacher ratio of 8:1 to 12:1 from 2013 to 2016 school year. All school divisions must adhere to educational standards set forth by the Abia State Ministry of Education.
There are six universities in the state: the federal-owned Michael Okpara University of Agriculture at Umudike, the state-owned Abia State University in Uturu, the privately-owned Gregory University in Uturu, Rhema University in Aba, Spiritan University in Umu Nneochi, Clifford University in Owerrinta, and Nigerian British University in Asa,.
Local Government Areas
Abia State is divided into seventeen Local Government Areas (LGAs) for administrative purposes.
Popular articles:
tags: #Nigeria
