Jump to content

Imo State: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 5°29′N 7°2′E / 5.483°N 7.033°E / 5.483; 7.033
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Content deleted Content added
Citation bot (talk | contribs)
Altered template type. Added date. | Use this bot. Report bugs. | Suggested by Pancho507 | Linked from User:Pancho507/sandbox/1 | #UCB_webform_linked 3318/3849
 
(806 intermediate revisions by more than 100 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|State of Nigeria}}
{{Cleanup list|date=August 2022}}
{{EngvarB|date=November 2015}}
{{EngvarB|date=November 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2015}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->| name = Imo
| name = Imo State
| type = [[States of Nigeria|State]]
| image_skyline = Roundabout Owerri.jpg
| official_name =
| image_alt =
| type = [[States of Nigeria|State]]
| image_caption =
| image_skyline =
| image_flag = Imo State Flag.svg
| image_alt =
| flag_alt =
| image_caption =
| seal_alt = Seal of Imo State
| image_flag =
| nickname = [[List of Nigerian state nicknames|Eastern Heartland]]
| flag_alt =
| seal_alt = Seal of Imo State
| image_map = Nigeria - Imo.svg
| map_alt =
| nickname = [[List of Nigerian state nicknames|Eastern Heartland]]
| image_map = Nigeria - Imo.svg
| map_caption = Location of Imo State in Nigeria
| coordinates = {{coord|5|29|N|7|2|E|region:NG|display=inline,title}}
| map_alt =
| coor_pinpoint =
| map_caption = Location of Imo State in Nigeria
| coordinates_footnotes =
| coordinates = {{coord|5|29|N|7|2|E|region:NG|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type = Country
| coor_pinpoint =
| subdivision_name = {{flag|Nigeria}}
| coordinates_footnotes =
| established_title = [[List of Nigerian states by date of statehood|Created]]
| subdivision_type = Country
| established_date = 3 February 1976
| subdivision_name = {{flag|Nigeria}}
| established_title = [[List of Nigerian states by date of statehood|Created]]
| seat_type = [[List of Nigerian state capitals|Capital]]
| seat = [[Owerri]]
| established_date = 3 February 1976
| government_footnotes =
| seat_type = [[List of Nigerian state capitals|Capital]]
| leader_party = [[All Progressives Congress|APC]]
| seat = [[Owerri]]
| leader_title = [[Imo State Governor|Governor]]
| government_footnotes =
| leader_name = [[Hope Uzodinma]]
| leader_party = [[All Progressives Congress|APC]]
| leader_title1 = {{nowrap|Deputy Governor}}
| leader_title = [[List of Governors of Imo State|Governor]]
| leader_name1 = Lady [[Chinyere Ekomaru]] ([[All Progressives Congress|APC]])
| leader_name = [[Rochas Anayo Okorocha]]
| leader_title2 = Legislature
| leader_title1 = Deputy Governor
| leader_name2 = [[Imo State House of Assembly]]
| leader_name1 = [[Prince Eze Madumere]]
| leader_title2 = [[Senate of Nigeria|Senators]]
| leader_title3 = [[Senate of Nigeria|Senators]]
| leader_name3 = {{Nowrap|E: [[Onyewuchi Francis Ezenwa]] ([[Labour Party (Nigeria)|LP]])}}<br />{{Nowrap|N: [[Chukwuma Frank Ibezim|Frank Ibezim]] ([[All Progressives Congress|APC]])}}<br />{{Nowrap|W: [[Osita Izunaso]] ([[All Progressives Congress|APC]])}}
| leader_name2 = Samuel Anyanwu<br>[[Hope Uzodinma]]<br>Benjamin Uwajumogu
| leader_title3 = [[Nigerian House of Representatives|Representatives]]
| leader_title4 = [[Nigerian House of Representatives|Representatives]]
| leader_name4 = [[Nigerian National Assembly delegation from Imo#The 9th Parliament (2019 - 2023)|List]]
| leader_name3 =
| unit_pref = Metric<!-- or US or UK -->
| unit_pref = Metric<!-- or US or UK -->
| area_footnotes =
| area_footnotes =
| area_total_km2 = 5530
| area_total_km2 = 5530
| area_rank = [[List of Nigerian states by area|Ranked 34th]]
| area_rank = [[List of Nigerian states by area|Ranked 34th]]
| area_note =
| area_note =
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_m =
| elevation_m =
| population_footnotes = <ref name="census">{{cite web|url=http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/nbsapps/Connections/Pop2006.pdf |title=2006 Population Census |date=May 2007 |publisher=[[National Bureau of Statistics of Nigeria]] |accessdate=27 July 2010 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110626113456/http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/nbsapps/Connections/Pop2006.pdf |archivedate=26 June 2011 }}</ref>{{ref|prelim|1}}
| population_footnotes = <ref name="census">{{cite web|url=http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/nbsapps/Connections/Pop2006.pdf |title=2006 Population Census |date=May 2007 |publisher=[[National Bureau of Statistics of Nigeria]] |access-date=27 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110626113456/http://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/nbsapps/Connections/Pop2006.pdf |archive-date=26 June 2011 }}</ref>{{ref|prelim|1}}
| population_total = 3,927,563<ref name="PHC Tables">{{Cite web|url=http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|title=2006 PHC Priority Tables – NATIONAL POPULATION COMMISSION|website=population.gov.ng|language=en-US|access-date=2017-10-10|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010054745/http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|archivedate=10 October 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
| population_total = 4,927,563<ref name="PHC Tables">{{Cite web|url=http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|title=2017 PHC Priority Tables – NATIONAL POPULATION COMMISSION|website=population.gov.ng|language=en-US|access-date=2017-10-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010054745/http://population.gov.ng/core-activities/surveys/dataset/2006-phc-priority-tables/|archive-date=10 October 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
| population_as_of = 2006 census
| population_as_of = 2017 est.
| population_rank = [[List of Nigerian states by population|13th of 36]]
| population_rank = [[List of Nigerian states by population|13th of 36]]
| population_est = 5,459,300<ref>{{Cite web |title=Imo State: Subdivision |url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/nigeria/admin/NGA017__imo/|access-date=2024-02-05 |website=www.citypopulation.de}}</ref>
| population_est =
| pop_est_as_of =
| pop_est_as_of = 2022
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_note =
| population_note =
| population_demonym =Imolite
| population_demonym = Imolite
| demographics_type1 = [[List of Nigerian states by GDP|GDP (PPP)]]
| demographics_type1 = [[List of Nigerian states by GDP|GDP (PPP)]]
| demographics1_footnotes =
| demographics1_footnotes =
| demographics1_title1 = Year
| demographics1_title1 = Year
| demographics1_info1 = 2007
| demographics1_info1 = 2021
| demographics1_title2 = Total
| demographics1_title2 = Total
| demographics1_info2 = $14.21&nbsp;billion<ref name="C-GIDD GDP">{{cite web|url=http://www.cgidd.com|publisher=Caeeeanback Dangel|title=C-GIDD (Canback Global Income Distribution Database)|accessdate=20 August 2008|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/665kvq69j?url=http://www.cgidd.com/|archivedate=11 March 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
| demographics1_info2 = $49.69&nbsp;billion<ref name="C-GIDD GDP">{{cite web |date=2022-10-13 |editor-last=Okeowo |editor-first=Gabriel |editor2-last=Fatoba |editor2-first=Iyanuoluwa |title=State of States 2022 Edition |url=https://yourbudgit.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2022-State-of-states_Official.pdf |access-date=2023-03-07 |website=Budgit.org |publisher=BudgIT |publication-date=2022-10-13}}</ref><br />[[List of Nigerian states by GDP|4th of 36]]
| demographics1_title3 = Per capita
| demographics1_title3 = Per capita
| demographics1_info3 = $3,527<ref name="C-GIDD GDP"/>
| demographics1_info3 = $7,828<ref name="C-GIDD GDP"/><br />[[List of Nigerian states by GDP|3rd of 36]]
| timezone1 = [[West Africa Time|WAT]]
| timezone1 = [[West Africa Time|WAT]]
| utc_offset1 = +01
| utc_offset1 = +01
| postal_code_type =
| postal_code_type = postal code
| postal_code =
| postal_code = 460001
| area_code_type =
| area_code_type =
| area_code =
| area_code =
| iso_code = [[ISO 3166-2:NG|NG-IM]]
| iso_code = [[ISO 3166-2:NG|NG-IM]]
| blank_name_sec1 = [[Human Development Index|HDI]] (2022)
| website = <!-- [http://www.imostate.gov.ng] -->
| blank_info_sec1 = 0.693<ref name="GlobalDataLab">{{Cite web|url=https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/|title=Sub-national HDI - Area Database - Global Data Lab|website=hdi.globaldatalab.org|language=en|access-date=2018-09-13}}</ref><br />{{color|#fc0|medium}} · [[List of Nigerian states by Human Development Index|3rd of 37]]
| footnotes = {{note|prelim|1}} Preliminary results
| blank1_name_sec1 = Language
| blank1_info_sec1 = [[Igbo language|Igbo]]<br />[[English language|English]]
| website = <!-- [http://www.imostate.gov.ng] -->
| footnotes = {{note|prelim|1}} Preliminary results
| image_seal = File:Imo State Government.jpg
| native_name =
}}
}}
'''Imo State''' ({{langx|ig|Ọra Imo}}) is a [[States of Nigeria|state]] in the [[South East (Nigeria)|South-East geopolitical zone]] of [[Nigeria]], bordered to the north by [[Anambra State]], [[Rivers State]] to the west and south, and [[Abia State]] to the east.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Imo {{!}} state, Nigeria {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Imo |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref> It takes its name from the [[Imo River]] which flows along the state's eastern border. The state capital is [[Owerri]] and the State's slogan is the "Eastern Heartland."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigeria's 36 States and Their Slogans |url=https://nigerianfinder.com/nigerias-36-states-and-their-slogans/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=nigerianfinder.com|date=10 August 2019 }}</ref>


Of the [[States of Nigeria|36 States]] in Nigeria, Imo is the [[List of Nigerian states by area|third smallest in area]] but is [[List of Nigerian states by population|fourteenth most populous]] with an estimated population of over 5.4 million as of 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigeria Population 2022 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs) |url=https://worldpopulationreview.com/countries/nigeria-population |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=worldpopulationreview.com}}</ref> Geographically, the state is divided between the [[Niger Delta swamp forests]] in the far east and the drier [[Cross–Niger transition forests]] in the rest of the state. Other key geographical features are the state's rivers and lakes with the [[Awbana River|Awbana]], [[Imo River|Imo]], [[Orashi River|Orashi]], and [[Otamiri River|Otamiri]] rivers along with the [[Oguta Lake]] in western Imo State.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-22 |title=What are the two lakes in Imo State? |url=https://bigboardscouting.com/qa/what-are-the-two-lakes-in-imo-state.html |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=big board scouting |language=en-US |archive-date=3 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220903165853/https://bigboardscouting.com/qa/what-are-the-two-lakes-in-imo-state.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
'''Imo''' is one of the 36 [[states of Nigeria]] and lies in the south east of Nigeria. [[Owerri]] is its capital and largest city. Its other major cities are [[Orlu, Nigeria|Orlu]] and [[Okigwe]]. Located in the south-eastern region of [[Nigeria]], it occupies the area between the lower [[River Niger]] and the upper and middle [[Imo River]].


Modern-day Imo State has been inhabited for almost a thousand years by the [[Igbo people]] with the [[Igbo language]] serving as a [[lingua franca]] alongside [[English language|English]] throughout the state. In the pre-colonial period, what is now Imo State was a part of medieval [[Kingdom of Nri]] and the later [[Aro Confederacy]] before the latter was defeated in the early 1900s by British troop then the [[Anglo-Aro War]]. After the war, the British incorporated the area into the [[Southern Nigeria Protectorate]] which later merged into [[British Nigeria]] in 1914; after the merger, Imo became a centre of anti-colonial resistance during the [[Women's War]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2009-03-27 |title=Aba Women's Riots (November-December 1929) • |url=https://www.blackpast.org/global-african-history/aba-womens-riots-november-december-1929/ |access-date=2022-09-03 |language=en-US}}</ref>
==Location==
Imo State is bordered by [[Abia State]] on the East, [[River Niger]] and [[Delta State]] to the West, [[Anambra State]] on the North and [[Rivers State]] to the South.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2015/06/exploring-the-resource-control-option-imo-state-by-futureview-ceo-elizabeth-ebi/|title=Exploring the resource control option – Imo State, by Futureview CEO, Elizabeth Ebi|date=June 2, 2015|accessdate=November 30, 2015|work=vanguardngr.com|author=Vanguard, Nigeria|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080057/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2015/06/exploring-the-resource-control-option-imo-state-by-futureview-ceo-elizabeth-ebi/|archivedate=8 December 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The state lies within latitudes 4°45'N and 7°15'N, and longitude 6°50'E and 7°25'E with an area of around 5,100&nbsp;sq&nbsp;km.<ref name="aboutimo">{{cite web|url=http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/AboutImo|title=About Imo State|publisher=Imo State Government|accessdate=27 July 2010|location=Imo State, Nigeria|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100717150144/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/AboutImo|archivedate=17 July 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


After independence in 1960, the area of the present-day Imo was a part of the post-independence [[Eastern Region, Nigeria|Eastern Region]] until 1967 when the region was split and the area became part of the [[East Central State]]. Less than two months afterwards, the former Eastern Region attempted to secede in the three-year long Nigerian Civil War with Imo as a part of the secessionist, Igbo nationalist state of [[Biafra]]. The area was hard fought over throughout the war with Owerri and its surrounding area exchanging hands twice before Owerri was named the Biafran capital in 1969. The present-day Imo State was captured by federal forces in early 1970 with [[Operation Tail-Wind]] taking the city and ending the war.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History of Imo State {{!}} Culture {{!}} Economy {{!}} People {{!}} Naijabiography |url=https://naijabiography.com/history-culture/history-of-imo-state/ |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=Naijabiography Media |language=en-US}}</ref> At the war's end and the reunification of Nigeria, the [[East Central State]] was reformed until 1976 when Imo State was formed by the [[Murtala Muhammed]] regime. Fifteen years afterwards, Imo State was divided with eastern Imo being broken off to form the new [[Abia State]].<ref>{{cite web |title=This is how the 36 states were created |url=https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/nigerian-states-this-is-how-the-36-states-were-created/mdtnq3e |website=Pulse.ng |date=24 October 2017 |access-date=15 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Abia {{!}} state, Nigeria {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Abia |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref>
== Economy ==
The economy of the state depends primarily on agriculture and commerce.


The state economy is highly dependent on agricultural production, especially the production of [[palm oil]], which a majority of citizens rely on for cooking.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Chukwu|first1=A. O.|last2=Onweagba|first2=A. E.|last3=Nwosu|first3=C. S.|last4=Osondu|first4=P. C.|date=2011|title=Economic Assessment of Palm Oil Processing in Owerri Agricultural Zone of Imo State|url=https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ijard/article/view/75837|journal=International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development|language=en|volume=14|issue=2|pages=703–706|doi=|issn=1595-9716}}</ref> A key minor industry is the extraction of [[crude oil]] and [[natural gas]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Opiah: With 18 Recovered Oil Wells, Imo Now Fourth Highest Producing State – THISDAYLIVE |url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/06/29/opiah-with-18-recovered-oil-wells-imo-now-fourth-highest-producing-state/ |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=www.thisdaylive.com}}</ref> especially in Imo's north and west. The state has been beset by violence at various points throughout its history, most notably the anti-cult [[1996 Otokoto Riots]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sherifat |first=Lawal |date=2020-09-19 |title=Remembering Otokoto uprising |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/09/remembering-otokoto-uprising/ |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-GB}}</ref> and the [[Insurgency in Southeastern Nigeria|ongoing separatist violence]] from the [[Eastern Security Network]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-08-28 |title=IPOB/ESN leader killed in Imo, Police claim |url=https://punchng.com/ipob-esn-leader-killed-in-imo-police-claim/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref> along with other opportunistic [[Nativism (politics)|nativist]] gunmen. Despite unrest, with its fast growing population and industrialization, Imo State has the [[List of Nigerian states by Human Development Index#2019|joint-sixth highest]] [[Human Development Index]] in the country.<ref>{{cite web |title=Human Development Indices |url=https://globaldatalab.org/shdi/shdi/ |website=Global Data Lab |access-date=15 December 2021}}</ref>
==Rivers and lakes==
The [[Orashi River]] has its source in Imo State. [[Imo River]], being the major river in the state, drains through [[Abia State]], where it is joined by [[Aba River (Nigeria)|Aba River]] from the north, and [[Akwa Ibom State]] into the [[Atlantic Ocean]]. There are also [[Njaba River]], [[Oguta Lake]], [[Utu River]], Ezize River and [[Awbana River]] in the state.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.davidpublishing.com/davidpublishing/Upfile/7/29/2012/2012072973443129.pdf|title=Water Quality Monitoring of a Tropical Lake and Associated Rivers: A Case Study of Oguta Lake and Its Tributaries, Niger Delta Basin, Southeastern Nigeria |publisher=Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering|date=2012|volume= A 1|issue=818-826|accessdate=January 16, 2016|page=1|author=Cosmas Ahamefule Ahiarakwem et al|department=Department of Geosciences, [[Federal University of Technology Owerri]] (FUTO), Nigeria}}</ref> [[Otamiri River]] and its 9.2&nbsp;km length tributary, [[Nworie River]], flow in the state.


==Geography==
There are other rivers and creeks in the state including Onas Creek in [[Ohaji/Egbema]], Okitankwo River in Umudi, and Ohia and Efuru Rivers in [[Okigwe]].
===Location===
Imo State is bordered by [[Anambra State]] to the north for 84&nbsp;km (52 miles), [[Abia State]] to the east for about 104&nbsp;km (partly in the vicinity of the Imo River), and [[Rivers State]] to the south and west for about 122&nbsp;km.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2015/06/exploring-the-resource-control-option-imo-state-by-futureview-ceo-elizabeth-ebi/|title=Exploring the resource control option – Imo State, by Futureview CEO, Elizabeth Ebi|date=June 2, 2015|access-date=November 30, 2015|work=vanguardngr.com|author=Vanguard, Nigeria|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080057/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2015/06/exploring-the-resource-control-option-imo-state-by-futureview-ceo-elizabeth-ebi/|archive-date=8 December 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Imo {{!}} state, Nigeria|url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Imo|access-date=2021-09-18|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|language=en}}</ref> The state lies within latitudes 4°45'N and 7°15'N, and longitude 6°50'E and 7°25'E, with an area of around 5,100&nbsp;sq&nbsp;km.<ref name="aboutimo">{{cite web|url=http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/AboutImo|title=About Imo State|publisher=Imo State Government|access-date=27 July 2010|location=Imo State, Nigeria|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100717150144/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/AboutImo|archive-date=17 July 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


==Natural resources==
===Natural resources===
The state has several natural resources including [[crude oil]], natural gas, lead, Calcium Cabornate and [[zinc]].<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Industries|title=Industries in Imo State|publisher=Imo State Government|accessdate=27 July 2010|location=Imo State, Nigeria|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100314055711/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Industries|archivedate=14 March 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
The state has several natural resources which includes, [[crude oil]], [[natural gas]], [[lead]], [[calcium carbonate]], solar and wind power, [[zinc]].<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Industries|title=Industries in Imo State|publisher=Imo State Government|access-date=27 July 2010|location=Imo State, Nigeria|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100314055711/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Industries|archive-date=14 March 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


Profitable flora including [[iroko (hardwood)|iroko]], [[mahogany]], [[obeche]], [[bamboo]], [[rubber tree]] and [[oil palm]]. Additionally white clay, fine sand and limestone are found in the state.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>
Profitable flora including [[iroko (hardwood)|iroko]], [[mahogany]], [[obeche]], [[bamboo]], [[rubber tree]] and [[oil palm]]. Additionally white clay, fine sand and [[limestone]] are also found in the state.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>


===Climate===
Imo's major towns include [[Isu, Nigeria|Isu]], [[Okigwe]], [[Oguta]], [[Orlu, Nigeria|Orlu]], Atta Ikeduru, Akokwa, [[Mbaise]], [[Mbaitoli]], [[Mbieri]], [[Ohaji/Egbema]], [[Orodo]], [[Nkwerre]], Ubulu, [[Ngor Okpala]], [[Omuma town|Omuma]], [[Mgbidi]], [[Awo-Omamma]], [[Izombe]], [[Orsu]], and [[Amaigbo]], Umuowa Orlu.
The rainy season begins in April and lasts until October,<ref name="wordtravels.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.wordtravels.com/Travelguide/Countries/Nigeria/Climate/|title=Climate and Weather - climate info and current weather in Nigeria|website=www.wordtravels.com|access-date=29 April 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023232925/http://www.wordtravels.com/Travelguide/Countries/Nigeria/Climate|archive-date=23 October 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> with annual rainfall varying from 1,500&nbsp;mm to 2,200&nbsp;mm (60 to 80&nbsp;inches).<ref name="aboutimo"/><ref name=gai5>{{cite web |url=http://www.uni.edu/gai/Nigeria/Background/Standard5.html |title=Regions Used to Interpret the Complexity of Nigeria |access-date=19 July 2007 |work=Geographical Alliance of Iowa |publisher=[[University of Northern Iowa]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414075757/http://www.uni.edu/gai/Nigeria/Background/Standard5.html |archive-date=14 April 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>


An average annual temperature above {{convert|20|°C|°F|1}}, creates an annual relative humidity of 75%. With humidity reaching 90% in the rainy season. The [[dry season]] experiences two months of [[Harmattan]], from late December to late February. The hottest months are between January and March.<ref name="aboutimo"/><ref name="wordtravels.com"/><ref name="gai5"/>
==Oil and gas exploration==
There are over 163 oil wells at over 12 different locations in the state.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/> The main petroleum companies operating in the state are [[Addax Petroleum]], [[Chevron Corporation]], [[Royal Dutch Shell]] and [[Agip]].<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/> Some of the established oil-rich local government councils include [[Ohaji/Egbema]], [[Oguta]], [[Oru East]], Iho, Oru West, [[Obowo]] and [[Ngor Okpala]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/ |title=Imo Govt discovers more crude oil |accessdate=November 30, 2015 |date=March 14, 2014 |publisher=vanguardngr.com |author=Vanguard, Nigeria |deadurl=no |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080703/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/ |archivedate=8 December 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>


With high population density and over farming, the soil has been degraded and much of the native [[vegetation]] has disappeared.<ref name="aboutimo"/>
==Investment opportunities==
Many investment opportunities exist in the state including oil and gas exploration, chemical plants, brewery plants, [[Hydroelectricity|hydroelectric plants]], gas-fired power plants, grain mills, starch production, cashews, fruit and vegetable juice concentrate production, integrated multi-oil seed processing plants, ceramics, inland [[waterway]] transport, and palm produce industry.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>


This [[deforestation]] has triggered [[soil erosion]], which is compounded by heavy seasonal rainfall that has led to the destruction of houses and roads.<ref name="aboutimo"/><ref>[http://www.africatalksclimate.com/galleries/imo-state-nigeria Africatalksclimate.com] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707092750/http://www.africatalksclimate.com/galleries/imo-state-nigeria |date=7 July 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/200912170314.html|title=Nigeria: Erosion - Ihioma Network Appeals to FG|first=Emeka|last=Ihiegbulem|date=17 December 2009|access-date=29 April 2018|via=AllAfrica|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012233612/http://allafrica.com/stories/200912170314.html|archive-date=12 October 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
Independent global brewer [[Heineken]], through its subsidiary [[Nigerian Breweries]], has significant investment in Imo State.<ref name="theheinekencompany.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.theheinekencompany.com/media/media-releases/press-releases/2014/05/1784271|title=HEINEKEN majority owned subsidiaries Nigerian Breweries plc and Consolidated Breweries plc to merge|work=www.theheinekencompany.com|date=May 9, 2014|accessdate=January 3, 2016|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207034012/http://www.theheinekencompany.com/media/media-releases/press-releases/2014/05/1784271|archivedate=7 February 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The company manages the world-class [[Awo-omamma]] Brewery, a multiple-line plant.<ref name="beverageindustrynews.com.ng">{{cite web|url=http://beverageindustrynews.com.ng/index.php/2015/12/08/nigerian-breweries-invests-n3bn-in-awo-omamma-n18bn-in-aba-breweries/|title=Nigerian Breweries invests N3bn in Awo-Omamma, N18bn in Aba Breweries|work=beverageindustrynews.com.ng|date=December 8, 2015|accessdate=January 3, 2016|deadurl=no|archiveurl=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20160105095650/http://beverageindustrynews.com.ng/index.php/2015/12/08/nigerian-breweries-invests-n3bn-in-awo-omamma-n18bn-in-aba-breweries/|archivedate=5 January 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


=== Environmental issues ===
Many more oil and gas opportunities are yet to be developed.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/> The federal government has been called to inspect newly discovered oil-rich areas which might help foster economic development and job creation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/|title=Imo Govt discovers more crude oil|date=March 14, 2014|work=vanguardngr.com|author=Vanguard, Nigeria|accessdate=January 16, 2016|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080703/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/|archivedate=8 December 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


==== Soil erosion ====
Industrial parks and processing zones to harness the huge agricultural produce and minerals would give a major boost to the state's economic growth and industrialization.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>


[[Erosion|Soil erosion]] is the most common geo-environmental hazard in Imo State, with over 360 erosion sites, out of which 57 are confirmed to be critical and in need of immediate remediation.<ref name=":1">{{Cite SSRN |first1=G. T. |last1=Amangabara |first2=J. D. |last2=Njoku |first3=M. C. |last3=Iwuji |date=2018-01-24 |title=People's Perception of Soil Erosion and Its Impact in Imo State, Nigeria |language=en |ssrn=3108294}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-11-27 |title=Imo requires N75bn to tackle 360 erosion sites — Uzodinma |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/11/imo-requires-n75bn-to-tackle-360-erosion-sites-uzodinma/ |access-date=2022-02-28 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref> They are mostly [[gully]] erosion found in [[Ideato South|Ideato]], [[Orlu, Imo|Orlu]], [[Ihitte/Uboma|Ihitte-uboma]], [[Arondizuogu]], Umuomi-ikeduru and [[Njaba]] areas of the state. These gullies are attributed mainly to poor [[civil engineering]] works, specifically road/gutter construction as well as [[sand mining]]. During [[road construction]], adequate control of the [[Surface runoff|runoff]] generated in this process is poorly taken into consideration. There is also no proper termination, [[Spillway|spill way]], and [[gabion]]s to lower intense flow to non-erosion velocities during [[Street gutter|gutter construction]]. Hence, [[rainwater]] overflow from concrete gutters resulting in erosion, especially at the intersection of gutter and road.<ref name=":1" />
[[Oguta Lake]], Palm Beach Holiday Resort in [[Awo-omamma]] and a host of other tourist sites along the banks of the 26&nbsp;km-length [[Njaba River]] present hotspots for tourism.<ref name="www.nddc.gov.ng">{{cite web|url=http://www.nddc.gov.ng/NDRMP%20Chapter%201.pdf|title=Niger Delta Region Land and People|publisher=Federal Republic of Nigeria|work=www.nddc.gov.ng|accessdate=January 16, 2016|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306194309/http://www.nddc.gov.ng/NDRMP%20Chapter%201.pdf|archivedate=6 March 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref>{{rp|34}}


Due to gullies, [[farmlands]] have been significantly affected, with both farmlands and their road paths lost. There is also loss of social [[infrastructure]]s such as, electricity and pipe-borne waters. Communities such as [[Ikeduru]], [[Orlu, Imo|Orlu]], [[Ehime Mbano]], [[Nwangele]], [[Nkwerre]] and [[Mbaitoli]] dependent on stream and harvested rainwater for domestic use have been impacted due to surface water/stream pollution caused by intense runoffs from the gully sites.<ref name=":1" />
==Agriculture==
The chief occupation of the local people is farming, but due to over-farming and high population density, the soil has greatly degraded. The cash crops include oil palm, raffia palm, rice, groundnut, melon, cotton, cocoa, rubber, and maize. Consumable crops such as yam, cassava, cocoyam and maize are also produced in large quantities.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>


[[Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project]] (NEWMAP), kick-started in the state on November 11, 2014 and the ecological fund are some of the interventions for soil erosion in the State.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NEWMAP Commences Means To Tackle Erosion In Imo State |url=https://www.channelstv.com/2015/06/21/newmap-commences-means-to-tackle-erosion-in-imo-state/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=Channels Television|date=21 June 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-19 |title=Cut off! The face of catastophic erosion and the fear of being washed away in Imo |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/09/cut-off-the-face-of-catastophic-erosion-and-the-fear-of-being-washed-away-in-imo/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref> Communities such as Eziala- Obizi in [[Ezinihitte Mbaise]] LGA; Iyiuzo-Ihioma-Ogberuru in [[Orlu, Imo|Orlu LGA]]; Umueshi-Amanato in [[Ideato South|Ideato South LGA]]; Umuturu -Ezemazu -Urualla in [[Ideato North|Ideato North LGA]]; Umunumo Ibeafor in [[Ehime Mbano|Ehime Mbano LGA]]; and Umueze Obazu-Mbieri in [[Mbaitoli|Mbaitoli LGA]] are [[Beneficiary|beneficiaries]] of the NEWMAP [[project]] in Imo State.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2021-09-19 |title=Cut off! The face of catastophic erosion and the fear of being washed away in Imo |language=en-US |work=Vanguard News |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/09/cut-off-the-face-of-catastophic-erosion-and-the-fear-of-being-washed-away-in-imo/ |access-date=2022-02-28}}</ref>
===Climate===
The rainy season begins in April and lasts until October,<ref name="wordtravels.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.wordtravels.com/Travelguide/Countries/Nigeria/Climate/|title=Climate and Weather - climate info and current weather in Nigeria|author=|date=|website=www.wordtravels.com|accessdate=29 April 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023232925/http://www.wordtravels.com/Travelguide/Countries/Nigeria/Climate|archivedate=23 October 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> with annual rainfall varying from 1,500mm to 2,200mm (60 to 80&nbsp;inches).<ref name="aboutimo"/><ref name=gai5>{{cite web |url=http://www.uni.edu/gai/Nigeria/Background/Standard5.html |title=Regions Used to Interpret the Complexity of Nigeria |accessdate=19 July 2007 |work=Geographical Alliance of Iowa |publisher=[[University of Northern Iowa]] |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414075757/http://www.uni.edu/gai/Nigeria/Background/Standard5.html |archivedate=14 April 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>


==== Flooding ====
An average annual temperature above {{convert|20|°C|°F|1}} creates an annual relative humidity of 75%. With humidity reaching 90% in the rainy season. The dry season experiences two months of Harmattan from late December to late February. The hottest months are between January and March.<ref name="aboutimo"/><ref name="wordtravels.com"/><ref name="gai5"/>
Available research identifies [[Oguta]], [[Ohaji/Egbema]], [[Ngor Okpala]], [[Owerri West]], [[Owerri North]], [[Aboh Mbaise]] and [[Owerri Municipal|Owerri municipal]] LGAs as very high flood areas; Mbaitolu, Ikeduru, [[Aboh Mbaise]], Onuimo, [[Ihitte/Uboma|IhiteUboma]], Obowo and Ehime Mbano LGAs as moderate flood hazard areas; and northern of Isiala Mbano, Nwangele, Nkwere, Orlu, Ehime Mbano and Southern part of Ideato North, [[Okigwe]] and Ideato South LGAs as low flood hazard areas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FLOOD RISK AND VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT OF OWERRI IMO STATE {{!}} Free Research Project |url=https://freeresearchproject.com.ng/research/flood-risk-and-vulnerability-assessment-of-owerri-imo-state/ |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=freeresearchproject.com.ng |language=en-US}}</ref>


In August 2019, flooding caused by heavy rain submerged about 70 houses, displaced 2000 villagers and destroyed farmlands in Orsu-Obodo community, in the [[Oguta|Oguta local government area]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-08-03 |title=Flood submerges 70 houses, renders 2000 homeless in Imo |url=https://punchng.com/flood-submerges-70-houses-renders-2000-homeless-in-imo/ |access-date=2022-03-01 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-08-17 |title=NEMA raises alarm over impending flooding in Imo |url=https://businessday.ng/news/article/nema-raises-alarm-over-impending-flooding-in-imo/ |access-date=2022-03-01 |website=Businessday NG |language=en-US}}</ref> Many residents in the state capital ([[Owerri]]) were also displaced in 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Olowolagba |first=Fikayo |date=2017-09-22 |title=Flood hits Imo, residents stranded [PHOTOS] |url=https://dailypost.ng/2017/09/22/flood-hits-imo-residents-stranded-photos/ |access-date=2022-03-01 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> The Orlu-Umuchima-Obiohia-Akokwa-Uga federal road has been cut off by gully erosion thereby leaving motorists and other road users stranded.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-10-02 |title=GULLY EROSION: Fully-loaded bus falls into ditch in Imo |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/10/gully-erosion-fully-loaded-bus-falls-into-ditch-in-imo/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
With high population density and over farming, the soil has been degraded and much of the native vegetation has disappeared.<ref name="aboutimo"/>


Ideato North and Ideato South have been erosion high risk areas in recent times in Imo State.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2023-07-07 |title=Senate urges NEMA to relocate residents from high-risk erosion areas in Imo |url=https://editor.guardian.ng/news/senate-urges-nema-to-relocate-residents-from-high-risk-erosion-areas-in-imo/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sunday |first=Ochogwu |date=2021-07-13 |title=Imo: Gully erosion severs road, cuts off community from Owerri town |url=https://dailypost.ng/2021/07/13/imo-gully-erosion-severs-road-cuts-off-community-from-owerri-town/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> Isiala Mbano is also not left out in these frequent flood disaster in Imo State.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Okeoma |first=Chidiebube |date=2022-04-19 |title=Erosion sacks Imo community after downpour |url=https://punchng.com/erosion-sacks-imo-community-after-downpour/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref>
This deforestation has triggered [[Erosion|soil erosion]] which is compounded by heavy seasonal rainfall that has led to the destruction of houses and roads.<ref name="aboutimo"/><ref>[http://www.africatalksclimate.com/galleries/imo-state-nigeria Africatalksclimate.com] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707092750/http://www.africatalksclimate.com/galleries/imo-state-nigeria |date=7 July 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/200912170314.html|title=Nigeria: Erosion - Ihioma Network Appeals to FG|first=Emeka|last=Ihiegbulem|date=17 December 2009|publisher=|accessdate=29 April 2018|via=AllAfrica|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012233612/http://allafrica.com/stories/200912170314.html|archivedate=12 October 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

==Oil and gas exploration==
There are over 163 oil wells, at over 12 different locations in the State.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/><ref>{{Cite news |last=Onykwelu |first=Stephen |date=12 February 2020 |title=Imo financial advisory committee writes Uzodinma, claims nine banks owe state N112.8bn |work=Business Day |url=https://businessday.ng/uncategorized/article/imo-financial-advisory-committee-writes-uzodinma-claims-nine-banks-owe-state-n112-8bn/ |access-date=30 June 2022}}</ref> The main petroleum companies operating in the State are [[Addax Petroleum]], [[Chevron Corporation]], [[Royal Dutch Shell]] and [[Agip]].<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/> Some of the established oil-rich local government councils include: [[Ohaji/Egbema]], [[Oguta]], [[Oru East]], Iho, [[Oru West]], [[Obowo]] and [[Ngor Okpala]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/ |title=Imo Govt discovers more crude oil |access-date=November 30, 2015 |date=March 14, 2014 |publisher=vanguardngr.com |author=Vanguard, Nigeria |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080703/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/ |archive-date=8 December 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In recent times, indigenes of Ohaji/Egbema communities have been protesting about poor basic amenities in their host community despite the presence of oil producing companies.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adedeji |first=Tunji |date=2022-08-11 |title=Imo community protests abandonment, demands 50% of N70bn oil tax money paid by oil companies |url=https://dailypost.ng/2022/08/11/imo-community-protests-abandonment-demands-50-of-n70bn-oil-tax-money-paid-by-oil-companies/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Tijesuni |date=2022-11-23 |title=Communities shut down oil companies in Imo, demands compensation |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/communities-shut-down-oil-companies-in-imo-demands-compensation/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Tribune Online |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/374247-special-report-residents-of-imo-community-suffer-as-nddc-abandons-education-electricity-water-projects.html?tztc=1 |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=www.premiumtimesng.com}}</ref>

==Investment opportunities==
Many investment opportunities exist in the State including oil and gas exploration, chemical plants, brewery plants, [[Hydroelectricity|hydroelectric plants]], [[gas-fired power plant]]s, grain mills, starch production, [[cashew]]s, fruit and vegetable juice concentrate production, integrated multi-oil seed processing plants, [[ceramic]]s, inland [[waterway]] transport, and palm produce industry.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>

Independent global brewer [[Heineken]], through its subsidiary [[Nigerian Breweries]], has significant investment in Imo State.<ref name="theheinekencompany.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.theheinekencompany.com/media/media-releases/press-releases/2014/05/1784271|title=HEINEKEN majority owned subsidiaries Nigerian Breweries plc and Consolidated Breweries plc to merge|work=www.theheinekencompany.com|date=May 9, 2014|access-date=January 3, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207034012/http://www.theheinekencompany.com/media/media-releases/press-releases/2014/05/1784271|archive-date=7 February 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The company manages the world-class [[Awo-omamma]] Brewery, a multiple-line plant.<ref name="beverageindustrynews.com.ng">{{cite web|url=http://beverageindustrynews.com.ng/index.php/2015/12/08/nigerian-breweries-invests-n3bn-in-awo-omamma-n18bn-in-aba-breweries/|title=Nigerian Breweries invests N3bn in Awo-Omamma, N18bn in Aba Breweries|work=beverageindustrynews.com.ng|date=December 8, 2015|access-date=January 3, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20160105095650/http://beverageindustrynews.com.ng/index.php/2015/12/08/nigerian-breweries-invests-n3bn-in-awo-omamma-n18bn-in-aba-breweries/|archive-date=5 January 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

Many more oil and gas opportunities are yet to be developed.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/> The [[Federal government of Nigeria|federal government]] has been called to inspect newly discovered oil-rich areas, which might help foster economic development and job creation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/|title=Imo Govt discovers more crude oil|date=March 14, 2014|work=vanguardngr.com|author=Vanguard, Nigeria|access-date=January 16, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208080703/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/03/imo-govt-discovers-crude-oil/|archive-date=8 December 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

Industrial parks and processing zones to harness the huge agricultural produce and minerals would give a major boost to the state's economic growth and industrialization.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/>

[[Oguta Lake]], Palm Beach Holiday Resort in Awo-omamma, and a host of other tourist sites along the banks of the 26&nbsp;km-length [[Njaba River]] present hotspots for tourism.<ref name="www.nddc.gov.ng">{{cite web|url=http://www.nddc.gov.ng/NDRMP%20Chapter%201.pdf|title=Niger Delta Region Land and People|publisher=Federal Republic of Nigeria|work=www.nddc.gov.ng|access-date=January 16, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306194309/http://www.nddc.gov.ng/NDRMP%20Chapter%201.pdf|archive-date=6 March 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref>{{rp|34}}

==Agriculture==
[[Agriculture]] is the primary occupation, but due to over-farming and [[Population density|high population density]], the soil has greatly degraded.This could be as a result of inefficient production techniques, poor resource base, declining soil productivity, predominance of primitive techniques of agricultural production, inadequate supply of credit, low capital investment, use of crude implements to mention but a few.<ref name="www.vanguardngr.com"/><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Onyenweaku|first1=C. E.|last2=Nwachukwu|first2=Ifeanyi N.|last3=Opara|first3=T. C.|date=2010-09-02|title=Productivity Growth in Food Crop Production in Imo State, Nigeria|url=https://mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de/29538/|access-date=2021-09-18|website=mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de|language=en}}</ref> The Agricultural sector in Imo State, needs the intervention of the state government and other huge private companies, this is because having a strong economy based on [[crude oil]], [[natural gas]] and [[palm oil]] will not aid for the development of the state.


== History ==
== History ==
Imo State came into existence in 1976 along with other new states created under the leadership of the late military ruler of Nigeria, [[Murtala Muhammad]], having been previously part of [[East-Central State]]. The state is named after the [[Imo River]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=268 |title=Physical Setting: Imo State |accessdate=13 August 2007 |work=OnlineNigeria.com |publisher=Devace Nigeria |deadurl=no |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926233927/http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=268 |archivedate=26 September 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Part of it was split off in 1991 as [[Abia State]], and another part became [[Ebonyi State]].
Imo State came into existence in 1976, along with other new states created under the leadership of the late military ruler of Nigeria, [[Murtala Muhammed]], having been previously part of [[East-Central State]]. The state is named after the [[Imo River]], which bears the name of a prominent [[Nigerians|Nigerian]] family with that family name, who were the chiefs of Imo State before the ratification of a more formal government.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=268 |title=Physical Setting: Imo State |access-date=13 August 2007 |work=OnlineNigeria.com |publisher=Devace Nigeria |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926233927/http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=268 |archive-date=26 September 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Part of it was split off in 1991 as [[Abia State]], and another part became [[Ebonyi State]].<ref name=":2" />

Imo State was created at Ngwoma, and the meetings for the state creation which began after the [[Nigerian Civil War]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Civil war breaks out in Nigeria|url=https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/civil-war-in-nigeria|access-date=2021-06-12|website=HISTORY|language=en}}</ref> ended in 1970 were chaired by Eze S. E. Onukogu.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2019-05-29 |title=History Of Imo State |url=https://nigeriazipcodes.com/10553/history-of-imo-state/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=Nigeria Zip Codes |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-24 |title=About Imo State, Nigeria |url=https://www.medianigeria.com/about-imo-state-nigeria/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=Media Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref>


The people of Imo State carried out the [[Otokoto riots of 1996]], which was a statewide protest, in response to the serial kidnappings and murders occurring in Imo at that point in time.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-11-19|title=Otokoto ritual murder: 20 things to know about convict hanged 20 years after crime|url=https://punchng.com/otokoto-ritual-murder-convict-hanged-20-years-crime/|access-date=2021-07-07|website=Punch Newspapers|language=en-US}}</ref> One of the most remarkable riots that took place in Imo state, that led to the destruction of properties was the [[#ENDSARS protest]]. This protest which started peacefully not only in Imo state, led to riots and destruction of police stations, and killing of security personnel<ref>{{Cite journal|date=2020-11-09|title=Nigeria's '#EndSARS' protest grievances will persist|journal=Emerald Expert Briefings|doi=10.1108/oxan-es257381|s2cid=240972670|issn=2633-304X}}</ref>[[#ENDSARS in Imo State]].
Imo state was created at Ngwoma and the meetings for the state creation which began after the Nigerian Civil War ended in 1970 were chaired by Chief S. E. Onukogu.{{citation needed|date=July 2018}}


==Government==
==Government==
The state has a three-tier administrative structure: State, Local and Autonomous community levels. The three arms at state level are the Executive, the Legislative and the Judiciary. The executive arm is headed by an elected Governor who is assisted by a deputy governor, commissioners and executive advisers.
The State has a three-tier administrative structure: State, Local and Autonomous community levels. The three arms at state level are the [[Executive functions|Executive]], the [[Legislature|Legislative]] and the Judiciary.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Three Branches of Government {{!}} Harry S. Truman|url=https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/education/three-branches/three-branches-of-government|access-date=2021-09-10|website=www.trumanlibrary.gov}}</ref> The executive arm is headed by an elected Governor, who is assisted by a deputy governor, commissioners and executive advisers.


This is a list of administrators and governors of Imo State since its creation.
This is a list of administrators and governors of Imo State since its creation.
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Name
!Name
!Title
!Title
Line 133: Line 158:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Ndubuisi Kanu]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-08 |title=After changing lawyer, court fines Ndubuisi Kanu's widow |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/510259-after-changing-lawyer-court-fines-ndubuisi-kanus-widow.html |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
|Ndubuisi Kanu
|Governor
|Governor
|Mar 1976
|Mar 1976
Line 140: Line 165:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|Adekunle Lawal
|[[Adekunle Lawal]]
|Governor
|Governor
|1977
|1977
Line 147: Line 172:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|Sunday Ajibade Adenihun
|[[Sunday Ajibade Adenihun]]
|Governor
|Governor
|Jul 1978
|Jul 1978
Line 154: Line 179:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adeolu |date=2017-03-15 |title=MBAKWE, Chief Samuel Onunaka (Late) |url=https://blerf.org/index.php/biography/mbakwe-chief-samuel-onunaka/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe
|Governor
|Governor
|1 Oct 1979
|1 Oct 1979
Line 161: Line 186:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Ike Nwachukwu]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-12 |title=Ike Nwachukwu: True reflection of what Nigeria ought to be |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/01/ike-nwachukwu-true-reflection-of-what-nigeria-ought-to-be/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Ike Nwachukwu
|Governor
|Governor
|Jan 1984
|Jan 1984
Line 168: Line 193:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Allison Amakoduna Madueke]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Diezani Alison-Madueke |url=https://frontend/topic/Diezani_Alison-Madueke |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=frontend |language=en }}{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
|Allison Amakoduna Madueke
|Governor
|Governor
|Aug 1985
|Aug 1985
Line 175: Line 200:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Amadi Ikwechegh|Amadi Ikechegh]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Emeruwa |first=Chijindu |date=2021-04-12 |title=Nigeria Navy immortalizes late ex-Imo military Gov, Commodore Amadi Ikwechegh |url=https://dailypost.ng/2021/04/12/nigeria-navy-immortalizes-late-ex-imo-military-gov-commodore-amadi-ikwechegh/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Amadi Ikwechegh
|Governor
|Governor
|1986
|1986
Line 182: Line 207:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Anthony E. Oguguo]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Anthony E. Oguguo's biography, fact, career, awards, net worth and life story - Wiki |url=https://wiki.2kw.net/en/people/anthony-e-oguguo-biography-fact-career-awards-net-worth-and-life-story-6914 |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-US }}{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
|Anthony E. Oguguo
|Governor
|Governor
|Aug 1990
|Aug 1990
Line 189: Line 214:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|Evan Enwerem
|[[Evan Enwerem]]<ref name=":3" />
|Governor
|Governor
|Jan 1992
|Jan 1992
Line 196: Line 221:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[James N.J. Aneke]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=James N.J. Aneke's biography, fact, career, awards, net worth and life story - Wiki |url=https://wiki.2kw.net/en/people/james-n-j-aneke-biography-fact-career-awards-net-worth-and-life-story-17271 |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-US |archive-date=17 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317090912/https://wiki.2kw.net/en/people/james-n-j-aneke-biography-fact-career-awards-net-worth-and-life-story-17271 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|James N.J. Aneke
|Administrator
|Administrator
|9 Dec 1993
|9 Dec 1993
Line 203: Line 228:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Tanko Zubairu]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-03 |title=Tanko, ex Imo state MILAD, laid to rest in Kaduna |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/12/tanko-ex-imo-state-milad-laid-to-rest-in-kaduna/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Tanko Zubairu
|Administrator
|Administrator
|22 Aug 1996
|22 Aug 1996
Line 210: Line 235:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Achike Udenwa]]<ref>{{Cite news |title=Achike Udenwa Archives |url=https://guardian.ng/tag/achike-udenwa/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Achike Udenwa
|Governor
|Governor
|29 May 1999
|29 May 1999
Line 217: Line 242:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|[[Ikedi Ohakim|Ikedi G. Ohakim]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-07-28 |title=Ohakim, ex-Imo governor, joins APC |url=https://www.thecable.ng/ohakim-ex-imo-governor-joins-apc |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=TheCable |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Ikedi G. Ohakim
|Governor
|Governor
|29 May 2007
|29 May 2007
Line 224: Line 249:
|-
|-
|-
|-
|Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha
|[[Rochas Anayo Okorocha|Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha]]<ref name=":5" />
|Governor
|Governor
|29 May 2011
|29 May 2011
|29 May 2019
|To Date
|APGA/APC
|APGA/APC
|-
|[[Emeka Ihedioha]]<ref name=":4" />
|Governor
|29 May 2019
|15 Jan 2020
|PDP
|-
|[[Hope Uzodinma]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/01/shock-waves-as-supreme-court-sacks-ihedioha-in-imo/ | title=Shock waves, as Supreme Court sacks Ihedioha in Imo | date=15 January 2020 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Hope Uzodinma Archives |url=https://m.guardian.ng/tag/hope-uzodinma/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref>
|Governor
|15 Jan 2020
|Till date
|APC
|-
|-
|}
|}


The legislative arm is headed by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly. The current Speaker is Rt. Hon. Ihenacho Ihim, and his deputy is Rt. Hon. Ugonna .Ozurigbo<ref>http://www.facebook.com/officialugonnaozurigbo</ref> The remainder of the house is made up of elected legislators from the 27 LGAs of the state.
The legislative arm is headed by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly. The current Speaker is Rt. Hon. [[Chike Olemgbe]], and his deputy is Rt. Hon. Amara iwuanyanwu. The remainder of the house is made up of elected legislators, from the 27 LGAs of the State.

The judiciary is made up of the high court of justice and the customary court of appeal, and is headed by the Chief Judge of the state.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=267|title=IMO STATE - OnlineNigeria.com|author=|date=|website=www.onlinenigeria.com|accessdate=29 April 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150826073057/http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=267|archivedate=26 August 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


At the 10th state house assembly (2023), the current speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly is Hon. Chike Olemgbe. He is a first-time member representing Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adedeji |first=Tunji |date=2023-06-16 |title=Imo Assembly elects Olemgbe, 40, new speaker |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/06/16/imo-assembly-elects-olemgbe-40-new-speaker/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ugwu |first=Chinagorom |date=2023-06-16 |title=First-timer lawmaker elected speaker of Imo Assembly |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-east/604992-first-timer-lawmaker-elected-speaker-of-imo-assembly.html |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Premium Times Nigeria |language=en-GB}}</ref> Also, the Deputy Speaker of the house is Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, who is a member representing the Nwangele constituency.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Okeoma |first=Chidiebube |date=2023-06-16 |title=First-time lawmaker elected Imo Speaker |url=https://punchng.com/first-time-lawmaker-elected-imo-speaker/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref>
===Ministries===
*Justice
*Agriculture and Natural Resources
*Education
*Health
*Commerce
*Industry and Tourism
*Finance
*Works and Transport
*Youths and Sports
*Women Affairs
*Internal Resources and Pension Matters
*Local Government and Rural Development
*Happiness and Purpose Fulfilment


The judiciary is made up of the high court of justice and the customary court of appeal and is headed by the Chief Judge of the State.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=267|title=IMO STATE - OnlineNigeria.com|website=www.onlinenigeria.com|access-date=29 April 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150826073057/http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/imoadv.asp?blurb=267|archive-date=26 August 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
===Language===
English and Igbo


===Local government areas===
===Local Government Areas===
{{See also|List of villages in Imo State}}
[[File:Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State.jpg|thumb|Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State]]
[[File:Oru West L.G.A. Imo state.jpg|thumb|Oru West L.G.A. Imo State]]
[[File:Orlu Local Government Area, IMO state.jpg|thumb|Orlu Local Government Area, Imo State]]
[[File:Okigwe Local Government Area, Imo State , Nigeria.jpg|thumb|Okigwe Local Government Area, Imo State]]
Imo State consists of 27 [[Local government areas of Nigeria|local government areas]]:
Imo State consists of 27 [[Local government areas of Nigeria|local government areas]]:


{{colbegin|colwidth=15em}}
{{colbegin|colwidth=10em}}
*[[Aboh Mbaise]]
*[[Aboh Mbaise]]
*[[Ahiazu Mbaise]]
*[[Ahiazu Mbaise]]
Line 290: Line 316:
|title = Local Government Organization in Imo State
|title = Local Government Organization in Imo State
|work = Library of Congress Pamphlet Collection – Flickr
|work = Library of Congress Pamphlet Collection – Flickr
|accessdate = 11 May 2014
|date = 2 May 2014
|access-date = 11 May 2014
|url = https://www.flickr.com/photos/pohick2/13969871060/in/set-72157644200924229
|url = https://www.flickr.com/photos/pohick2/13969871060/in/set-72157644200924229
}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=jlukmon |date=2023-03-29 |title=List of 27 Local Governments in Imo State and their Headquarters. |url=https://aboutnigerians.com/list-of-27-local-governments-in-imo-state-and-their-headquarters/ |access-date=2023-05-05 |website=ABOUT NIGERIANS |language=en-US}}</ref>
}}</ref>


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
The state has over 5.5 million people, and the population density varies from 230 to 1,400 people per square kilometre.<ref name="aboutimo"/> Christianity and [[Odinani]] are the majority religions, with [[Odinani]] becoming more common as citizens are beginning to embrace their religious heritage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jacobsen |first=Scott Douglas |date=2018-02-23 |title=An upcoming gathering of humanists in Owerri, Imo State, Southern Nigeria |url=https://medium.com/humanist-voices/an-upcoming-gathering-of-humanists-in-owerri-imo-state-southern-nigeria-7013ff992005 |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=Humanist Voices |language=en}}</ref> In addition to its capital, other notable towns are [[Orlu, Nigeria|Orlu]], [[Obowo]], [[Oguta]], Awo-Omamma, Mgbidi, Mbaise, [[Okigwe]] and [[Ohaji/Egbema]].
The state has over 4.8 million people and the population density varies from 230 to 1,400 people per square kilometre.<ref name="aboutimo"/> Christianity is the predominant religion.


In addition to English being the official language, Imo state is a predominantly [[Igbo language|Igbo]] speaking state, with [[Igbo people]] constituting a majority of 98%.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.igbofocus.co.uk/html/imo_state.html|title=Imo State|author=|date=|website=www.igbofocus.co.uk|accessdate=29 April 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014210632/http://igbofocus.co.uk/html/imo_state.html|archivedate=14 October 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
Imo State is a predominantly [[Igbo language|Igbo]]-speaking state, with [[Igbo people]] constituting a majority of the population (around 98%).<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=http://www.igbofocus.co.uk/html/imo_state.html|title=Imo State|website=www.igbofocus.co.uk|access-date=29 April 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014210632/http://igbofocus.co.uk/html/imo_state.html|archive-date=14 October 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

=== Religion ===
Majority of Imo State residents are Christians. Catholics (2021) in the [[Archdiocese of Owerri]] (1948) with 162 parishes under [[Archbishop]] Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji (2022), and two suffragan dioceses of Okigwe (1981) with 119 parishes under Bishop Solomon Amanchukwu Amatu (2006) and Orlu (1980) with 189 parishes under Bishop Augustine Tochukwu Ukwuoma (2008). The Anglican Church of Nigeria includes the [[Anglican Province of Owerri|Province of Owerri]] led by [[David Onuoha|Archbishop David Onuoha]] (2020), also Bishop of Okigwe South, and 10 other [[Anglican Diocese of Okigwe South|Dioceses of Okigwe South]] (1994) led by Bishop David Onuoha (2004), [[Anglican Diocese of Owerri|Owerri]] led by [[Chukwuma Oparah|Bishop Chukwuma Oparah]] (2018), [[Anglican Diocese of Orlu|Orlu]] led by Bishop [[Benjamin Chinedum Okeke]] (2019), [[Anglican Diocese of Mbaise|Mbaise]](1992) led by Bishop [[Chamberlain Chinedu Ogunedo]] (2010), [[Anglican Diocese of Isi Mbano|Isi Mbano]] led by Bishop [[Godson Udochukwu Ukanwa]], [[Anglican Diocese of Ideato|Ideato]](1999) led by Bishop [[Henry Okeke]] (2020), [[Anglican Diocese of Ohaji/Egbema|Ohaji/Egbema]] led by Bishop [[Chidi Oparaojiaku|Childi Collins Oparaojiaku]] (2008), [[Anglican Diocese of On the Lake|On the Lake]] led by Bishop [[Chijioke Oti]] (2008), [[Anglican Diocese of Oru|Oru]] led by Bishop [[Geoffrey Chukwunenye]] (2008), [[Anglican Diocese of Okigwe|Okigwe]] led by Bishop [[Edward Osuegbu]], and [[Anglican Diocese of Ikeduru|Ikeduru]] led by Bishop [[Emmanuel Maduwike]] (2009).

=== Politics ===
The state government is led by a democratically elected [[governor]] who works closely with members of the state's house of assembly. The Capital city of the State is [[Owerri]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Oguntola |first=Tunde |date=2022-09-27 |title=2023: Next President, Govs Must Get Two-thirds Spread, Says INEC |url=https://leadership.ng/2023-next-president-govs-must-get-two-thirds-spread-says-inec/ |access-date=2023-02-24 |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Electoral system ===
The electoral system of each state is selected using a modified [[two-round system]]. To be elected in the first round, a candidate must receive the plurality of the vote and over 25% of the vote in at least two-thirds of the State Local Government Areas. If no candidate passes this threshold, a second round will be held between the top candidate and the next candidate to have received a plurality of votes in the highest number of Local Government Areas.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Oguntola |first=Tunde |date=2022-09-27 |title=2023: Next President, Govs Must Get Two-thirds Spread, Says INEC |url=https://leadership.ng/2023-next-president-govs-must-get-two-thirds-spread-says-inec/ |access-date=2023-02-24 |language=en-US}}</ref>


== Education ==
== Education ==
There are several institutions of higher learning including state and federal government run institutions. They are as follows:
* [[Imo State University]]
* [[Federal University of Technology, Owerri]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Education|title=Education in Imo State|publisher=Imo State Government|accessdate=27 July 2010|location=Imo State, Nigeria|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716022931/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Education|archivedate=16 July 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
* [[Federal Polytechnic, Nekede]]
*[[Eastern Palm University]], Ogboko, Ideato
* Imo State Polytechnic, Umuagwo
* Alvan Ikoku College of Education
* Technological Skills Acquisition Institute, [[Orlu, Imo|Orlu]]


=== Institutions of higher learning ===
==Notable people==
This is a list of the higher institutions located in Imo State:
* [[Federal Polytechnic, Nekede]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-01-01|title=List of Courses Offered at Federal polytechnic, Nekede (NEKEDEPOLY)|url=https://nigerianscholars.com/school-news/nekedepoly-courses/|access-date=2021-06-14|website=Nigerian Scholars|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Federal University of Technology Owerri]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Education|title=Education in Imo State|publisher=Imo State Government|access-date=27 July 2010|location=Imo State, Nigeria|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716022931/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/info/Education|archive-date=16 July 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-10-09|title=List of Courses Offered at FUTO with Admission Requirements|url=https://www.myschoolgist.com/ng/futo-courses/|access-date=2021-06-14|website=www.myschoolgist.com|language=en}}</ref>
* [[Hezekiah University]], Umudi<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hezekiah University unihez{{!}} School Fees, Courses & Admission info |url=https://universitycompass.com/africa/Nigeria/universities/hezekiah-university.php |access-date=2022-03-13 |website=universitycompass.com}}</ref>
*[[Imo State Polytechnic]], Now university of Agriculture [[Umuagwo]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-01 |title=List of Courses Offered by Imo State Polytechnic |url=https://www.myschoolgist.com/ng/imo-state-poly-courses/ |access-date=2022-03-13 |website=www.myschoolgist.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Imo State University|Imo State University, Owerri]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-10-09|title=List Of IMSU Courses and Programmes Offered - MySchoolGist|url=https://www.myschoolgist.com/ng/imsu-courses/|access-date=2021-06-14|website=www.myschoolgist.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Imo State University {{!}} INOMICS |url=https://inomics.com/institution/imo-state-university-1129758 |access-date=2022-03-13 |website=inomics.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University]], Ogboko, Ideato<ref>{{Cite web |title=Imo govt seizes Eastern Palm University from Okorocha - P.M. News |url=https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2021/02/11/imo-govt-seizes-eastern-palm-university-from-okorocha/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |language=en-US}}</ref>


==Transport==
===Federal Highways===
* [[A3 highway (Nigeria)|A3]] north from [[Umuahia]] (Abia State) via Umuokwara to Lokpauku, [[Abia State]].
* [[A6 highway (Nigeria)|A6]] northwest from Abia State at Umuika via [[Owerri]] to [[Anambra State]].
* [[F106 highway (Nigeria)|F106]] east from [[Owerri]] via [[Nguru, Nigeria|Nguru]] to A3 at Etiti.

===Other major roads include===
* the Uli-Aguta Rd north to [[Uli, Anambra|Uli]] in [[Anambra State]]
* the Ihiala-Orlu Rd to Anambra State,
* the Nnewi-Okigwe Rd via Akokwa and Akwa-Okigwe Rd north to Anambra State,
* Okigwe-Afikpo Rd east to [[Abia State]] at [[Okigwe]],
* the Umu-Opara Rd from Umoke to Abia State,
* the Umu-Ohie-Uku-Amala-Ibodo Rd southwest from Okpuala via Eziama and Amala to Olakwo in [[Rivers State]],
* the Owerri-Ahoada Rd southwest to Rivers State,
* the Okwuzi-Aguta Rd south to the Ogura-Omoku Rd in Rivers State.

===Airports===
[[Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport]].

==Notable people==
===Sport===
===Sport===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
* [[Chioma Ajunwa]] – 1996 Olympic gold long jumper
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Prince Amukamara]] – cornerback for the Chicago Bears
* [[Chioma Ajunwa]] – 1996 Olympic gold long jumper<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chioma Ajunwa Archives |url=https://guardian.ng/tag/chioma-ajunwa/ |access-date=2022-03-14 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-06-19 |title=INTERVIEW: Why I am happy, another Nigerian broke my 25-year-old African Record - Chioma Ajunwa |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/468623-interview-why-i-am-happy-another-nigerian-broke-my-25-year-old-african-record-chioma-ajunwa.html |access-date=2022-03-14 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Emmanuel Amunike]] – 1994 African Player of the Year and Olympic-winning soccer star
* [[Chidobe Awuzie]] - cornerback for the Cincinnati Bengals<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chidobe Awuzie, Cincinnati Bengals, CB - News, Stats, Bio |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/2079069/chidobe-awuzie/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Nnamdi Asomugha]] – former Oakland Raiders and Philadelphia Eagles Cornerback
* [[Kelechi Iheanacho]] – striker for [[Leicester City]], U-17 World Cup winner and tournament's MVP (2013)
* [[Kelechi Iheanacho]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-06-20 |title=Kelechi Iheanacho's Biography, Salary and Net Worth |url=https://buzznigeria.com/kelechi-iheanacho-salary-car-house/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=BuzzNigeria.com |language=en-US}}</ref> – striker for [[Leicester City]], U-17 World Cup winner and tournament's MVP (2013)
* [[Samuel Okwaraji]] (1964–1989) – national footballer<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-08-12 |title=My last moment with Samuel Okwaraji - Ex-Nigeria midfielder {{!}} Premium Times Nigeria |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/football/346360-my-last-moment-with-samuel-okwaraji-ex-nigeria-midfielder.html |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Christian Okoye]] – former running back for the Kansas City Chiefs
* [[Levi Onwuzurike]]- defensive tackle for Detroit Lions 2021–present<ref>{{Cite web |title=Levi Onwuzurike Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/O/OnwuLe00.htm |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Samuel Okwaraji]] (1964–1989) – national footballer
* [[Nwankwo Kanu]] (1976-2011) - professional footballer<ref>{{cite web |title=Black History Month Heroes: Nwankwo Kanu |url=https://www.premierleague.com/news/2284536 |website=Premiere league |access-date=18 October 2024}}</ref>
* [[Christy Opara]] – 1997/98 60 meters; fastest woman in the world; 1992 Olympic bronze medalist in track and field


===Arts===
===Arts===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
* [[Obianuju Catherine Acholonu]] – author
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Charly Boy]] – hip hop singer and activist
* [[Catherine Obianuju Acholonu]] – author<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-03-17 |title=Memoriam To A Quintessential Woman, Great Amazon-Prof. Catherine Acholonu |url=https://www.watchdogng.com/2021/03/memoriam-to-a-quintessential-womangreat-amazon-prof-catherine-acholonu/ |access-date=2022-03-14 |website=Nigeria Watchdog Newspaper |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[St. Chika | Chika Nwaogu]] (born 1990), Nigerian gospel singer
* [[Blaqbonez]] - Nigerian rapper<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-26 |title=DID YOU KNOW? Fireboy, Asake, Chinko Ekun, BlaqBonez are OAU graduates |url=http://lifestyle.thecable.ng/did-you-know-fireboy-asake-chinko-ekun-blaqbonez-are-oau-graduates/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=TheCable Lifestyle |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Rita Dominic]] – Nigerian actress
* [[Charly Boy]] – hip hop singer and activist<ref>{{Cite web |title=Charly Boy Archives |url=https://m.guardian.ng/tag/charly-boy/ |access-date=2022-03-15 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Osita Iheme]] – actor
* [[Chidinma]] - musician and actress<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chidinma, Biography |url=https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/person/Chidinma-2096 |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=mobile.ghanaweb.com}}</ref>
* [[Kanayo O. Kanayo]] – actor
* [[Rita Dominic]] – Nigerian actress<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-02-24 |title=Rita Dominic Biography: How Old Is the Actress and What Is Her Net Worth? |url=https://buzznigeria.com/rita-dominic/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=BuzzNigeria.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Afro Candy|Judith Chichi Opara Mazagwu]] – Nigerian actress, musician and businesswoman
* [[Chijindu Kelechi Eke|Kelechi Eke]] - Filmmaker and Founder of Village Arts & Film Festival (VILLAFFEST), Owerri<ref>{{Cite news |title=Dallas-based film maker, Kelechi Eke brings VILLAFFEST to Owerri |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/10/dallas-based-film-maker-kelechi-eke-brings-villaffest-to-owerri/amp/ |work=[[Vanguard Nigeria]]}}</ref>
* [[John Munonye]] – author
* [[Prince Eke]] - Nollywood actor<ref>{{Cite web |last=Victoria |first=Chukwuani |date=2020-11-04 |title=Actor, Prince Eke drags ex-wife Muma gee for saying her failed marriage is a disgrace |url=https://www.kemifilani.ng/hot-news/actor-prince-eke-drags-estranged-wife-muma-gee-for-saying-her-failed-marriage-is-a-disgrace |access-date=2022-03-15 |website=Kemi Filani News |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Genevieve Nnaji]] – Nollywood actress
* [[Fave (singer)|Fave]] - Nigerian Singer-songwriter<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-05 |title=Fave Biography, Wikipedia, Real Name, Net Worth, Songs, Social Media, Career |url=https://songhit.com.ng/fave-biography-wikipedia-real-name-net-worth-songs-social-media-career/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=Song Hit |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Dr. Alban|Alban Uzoma Nwapa]] – Eurodance musician
* [[Osita Iheme]] - actor and author<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mbuthia |first=Mercy |date=2021-08-20 |title=Osita Iheme biography: age, height, wife, kids, house, cars, movies |url=https://www.legit.ng/1190165-osita-ihemes-biography-movies.html |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Legit.ng - Nigeria news. |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Onyeka Nwelue]] – author, scholar, actor, entrepreneur
* [[Illbliss]] - Nigerian rapper
* [[Dr. Sir Warrior|Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna]] – highlife musician
* [[Ada Jesus]] – Nigerian actress and comedienne<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-04-21 |title=Popular comedienne Ada Jesus is dead {{!}} Premium Times Nigeria |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/naija-fashion/456676-popular-comedienne-ada-jesus-is-dead.html |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Clem Ohameze]] – actor
* [[Jidenna]] - rapper and singer<ref>{{Cite web |title=Jidenna talks '85 To Africa' album, the importance of Africa, the REVOLT Summit, dating life and more |url=https://www.revolt.tv/article/2020-01-02/82479/jidenna-talks-85-to-africa-album-the-importance-of-africa-the-revolt-summit-dating-life-and-more/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=REVOLT |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Stephanie Okereke]] – actress
* [[Kanayo O. Kanayo]] - actor and lawyer<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kanayo O. Kanayo: What Better Title Than Veteran? |url=https://guardian.ng/life/kanayo-o-kanayo-what-better-title-than-veteran/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=guardian.ng |date=March 2019 |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Onyeka Onwenu]] – singer, actress and politician
* [[John Munonye]] – author<ref>{{Cite web |title=John Munonye {{!}} Nigerian educator and novelist |url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Munonye |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Genevieve Nnaji]] – Nollywood actress<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-10-05 |title=Genevieve Nnaji Biography: Who Is the Star Actress and How Old Is She? |url=https://buzznigeria.com/everything-you-must-know-about-the-legendary-genevieve-nnaji/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=BuzzNigeria.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Dr. Alban|Alban Uzoma Nwapa]] – Eurodance musician<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-14 |title=Music And Songs career |url=https://songhit.com.ng/song/ |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Song Hit |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Onyeka Nwelue]] – author, scholar, actor, entrepreneur<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-01 |title=Amazing story of Onyeka Nwelue, Nigerian youth who founded James Curreý Society in UK |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/01/amazing-story-of-onyeka-nwelue-nigerian-youth-who-founded-james-currey-society-in-uk/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Darlington Okoye]] - Musician, song writer, social media personality<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sobowale |first1=Adetutu |title=Missing Speed Darlington in police custody- Deji Adeyanju |url=https://punchng.com/missing-speed-darlington-in-police-custody-deji-adeyanju/ |access-date=9 October 2024 |work=Punch Newspapers |date=8 October 2024}}</ref>
* [[Onyeka Onwenu]] – singer, actress and politician<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-04 |title=Onyeka Onwenu Opens Up On Failed Marriage And Raising Children |url=https://editor.guardian.ng/life/onyeka-onwenu-opens-up-on-failed-marriage-and-raising-children/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US |archive-date=5 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305141238/https://editor.guardian.ng/life/onyeka-onwenu-opens-up-on-failed-marriage-and-raising-children/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* [[Snazzy the Optimist]] - musician<ref>{{Cite web |last=Okanlawon |first=Taiwo |date=2022-04-25 |title=Meet Snazzy the Optimist, the genre-pushing artist on the rise |url=https://lamboxtra.com/meet-snazzy-the-optimist/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Lambo ˣᵗʳᵃ |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Victony]] - Nigerian musician<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mongina |first=Night |date=2023-02-05 |title=Victony's biography: age, state of origin, songs, accident |url=https://www.legit.ng/ask-legit/biographies/1516525-victonys-biography-age-state-origin-songs-accident/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=Legit.ng |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Dr Sir Warrior]] – highlife musician<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sir Warrior - Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna biography, net worth, age, family, contact & picture |url=https://www.manpower.com.ng/people/16327/christogonus-ezebuiro-obinna |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=www.manpower.com.ng}}</ref>


===Politics===
===Politics===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
* [[Pats Acholonu]] – [[Supreme Court (Nigeria)|Supreme Court]] Justice
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Christina Anyanwu]] – journalist and senator
* [[Pats Acholonu]] – [[Supreme Court (Nigeria)|Supreme Court]] Justice<ref>{{Cite web |title=Supreme Court of Nigeria |url=https://www.supremecourt.gov.ng/profile/justice/111 |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=www.supremecourt.gov.ng}}</ref>
* [[Kema Chikwe]] – former Minister of Aviation
* [[Chris Anyanwu]] – journalist and senator<ref>{{Cite web |title=Christiana "Chris" Anyanwu, Role Model, Senior Special Assistant, Politician Journalist, News Caster, Anchor and {{sic|nolink=y|reason=error in source|Entreprenuer}}, Prominent Nigerian, Nigeria Personality Profiles |url=https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/Personality-Profiles/Prominent-Nigerians/Chris-Anyanwu.html |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=www.nigeriagalleria.com}}</ref>
* [[Chile Eboe-Osuji]] - Judge, International Court of Criminal Justice, Hague
* [[Ifeanyi Ararume]] – former senator of Okigwe zone (1999-2007)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-25 |title=Araraume's NNPC appointment: Debunking the lies |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/09/araraumes-nnpc-appointment-debunking-the-lies/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Evan Enwerem]] – former governor and former President of the Senate
* [[Martin Agbaso]] - former senator of Owerri
* [[Collins E. Ijoma]] – youngest US Trial Court Administrator
* [[Kema Chikwe]] – former Minister of Aviation<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kema Chikwe Archives |url=https://t.guardian.ng/tag/kema-chikwe/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US }}{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
* [[Maurice Iwu]] – former INEC chairman
* [[Sebastian Okechukwu Mezu]] – Nigerian writer, scholar, philanthropist, publisher, and politician<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Jonathan National Dialogue: Conflict Resolution Or Conflict Insemination |url=https://saharareporters.com/2013/10/10/jonathan-national-dialogue-conflict-resolution-or-conflict-insemination-dr-s-okechukwu}}</ref>
* [[Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu]] – politician and businessman
* [[Chile Eboe-Osuji]] - Judge, International Court of Criminal Justice, Hague<ref>{{Cite web |title=ICC President Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji Remarks at ceremony for the solemn undertaking of six new judges and the departure of six outgoing judges |url=https://www.icc-cpi.int/Pages/item.aspx?name=20210310-pres-speech |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=www.icc-cpi.int |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Daniel Kanu]] – politician, businessman and philanthropist; organizer of [[2 Million Man March]], the largest gathering in Nigerian history
* [[Evan Enwerem]] – former governor and former President of the Senate<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Maduawuchi |title=Biography Of Senator Evan Enwerem: Former Senate President of Nigeria |url=https://nigerianinfopedia.com/biography-senator-evan-enwerem-former-senate-president-nigeria/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Nigerian Infopedia |language=en-GB |archive-date=9 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210509164444/https://nigerianinfopedia.com/biography-senator-evan-enwerem-former-senate-president-nigeria/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* [[K. O. Mbadiwe]] – former Minister of Commerce and Industry
* [[Bede Eke]] - politician<ref>{{Cite web |last=Emeruwa |first=Chijindu |date=2019-02-17 |title=Nigeria Decides: Federal lawmaker, Bede Eke slams INEC over postponement, says PDP poised to send Buhari to Daura |url=https://dailypost.ng/2019/02/17/nigeria-decides-federal-lawmaker-bede-eke-slams-inec-postponement-says-pdp-poised-send-buhari-daura/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Sam Mbakwe]] – former Governor
* [[Emeka Ihedioha]] - former Governor and Chief whip Nigeria House of Representatives<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Emeka Ihedioha Archives |url=https://m.guardian.ng/tag/emeka-ihedioha/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Raymond Njoku]] – former Minister of Transportation
* [[Maurice Iwu]] – former INEC chairman<ref>{{Cite web |title=Iwu - I've No Regret Over April Polls (Allafrica) — |url=https://aceproject.org/regions-en/countries-and-territories/NG/news/iwu-i-ve-no-regret-over-april-polls-allafrica |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=aceproject.org}}</ref>
* [[Chinwe Obaji]] – professor and former Minister of Education
* [[Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu]] – politician and businessman<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu biography, net worth, age, family, contact & picture |url=https://www.manpower.com.ng/people/16561/emmanuel-iwuanyanwu |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=www.manpower.com.ng}}</ref>
* [[Chief Dr. Walter Ofonagoro]] – former Minister of Information and Culture
* [[Prince Eze Madumere]] - former Deputy Governor<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-11-24 |title=Breaking: Ex- Imo Deputy Governor's father regains freedom |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/11/breaking-ex-imo-deputy-governors-father-regains-freedom/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Ikedi Ohakim]] – former governor
* [[K. O. Mbadiwe]] – former Minister of Commerce and Industry<ref>{{Cite book |last=Lynch |first=Hollis R |title=K.O. Mbadiwe: a Nigerian political biography, 1915-1990 |date=2012 |publisher=NY : Palgrave Macmillan |isbn=978-1-137-00261-7 |location=New York |language=English |oclc=826736399}}</ref>
* [[Ifeanyi Araraume]] – former senator of Okigwe zone (1999-2007)
* [[Sam Mbakwe]] – former Governor<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adeolu |date=2017-03-15 |title=MBAKWE, Chief Samuel Onunaka (Late) |url=https://blerf.org/index.php/biography/mbakwe-chief-samuel-onunaka/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Rochas Okorocha]] – present governor
*[[Henry Nwawuba]] - Politician and Entrepreneur<ref>{{Cite web |title=ABOUT – Henry Nwawuba |url=https://henrynwawuba.com/about/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-US }}{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
* [[Fabian Osuji]] – former Minister of Education
* [[Raymond Njoku]] – former Minister of Transportation<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-10-14 |title=Nigerians love comedy more than music —Comedian, Njoku a.k.a Senator |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/nigerians-love-comedy-music-comedian-njoku-k-senator/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Tribune Online |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Ugonna Ozurigbo]] – Deputy Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly (2015–), and Member
* [[Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba]] - former House of Representatives Member and current Minister of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-11 |title=I won my first election at 31 –Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, Minister of State for Education |url=https://punchng.com/i-won-my-first-election-at-31-chukwuemeka-nwajiuba-minister-of-state-for-education/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Achike Udenwa]] – former Governor
* [[Arthur Nzeribe]] – former Senator Orlu Zone, Member of the Senate of Nigeria in the 4th National Assembly (1999-2003)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dailytrust News, Sports and Business, Politics {{!}} Dailytrust |url=https://dailytrust.com/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Daily Trust |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Walter Ofonagoro]] – former Minister of Information and Culture<ref>{{Cite web |last=Udo |first=Mary |date=2017-01-19 |title=OFONAGORO, Sir, (Dr.) Walter Ibekwe |url=https://blerf.org/index.php/biography/ofonagoro-sir-dr-walter-ibekwe/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Ikedi Ohakim]] – former governor<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-11-11 |title=Court grants former governor, Ikedi Ohakim, bail {{!}} Premium Times Nigeria |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/425683-court-grants-former-governor-ikedi-ohakim-bail.html |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Chris Okewulonu]] – Chief of Staff<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jannah |first=Chijioke |date=2019-06-20 |title='Sack your Chief of Staff now' - Senator Okorocha tells Gov. Ihedioha |url=https://dailypost.ng/2019/06/20/sack-chief-staff-now-senator-okorocha-tells-gov-ihedioha/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Rochas Okorocha]] – former governor and a serving senator representing Imo West,<ref name=":5">{{Cite news |title=Rochas Okorocha Archives |url=https://m.guardian.ng/tag/rochas-okorocha/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News |language=en-US}}</ref> under investigation as of May 2022<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dera |first=Promise |date=May 24, 2022 |title=I am under hostage – Okorocha speaks as EFCC operatives surround his Abuja residence |work=Tickernewsng.com |url=https://tickernewsng.com/i-am-under-hostage-okorocha-speaks-as-efcc-operatives-surround-his-abuja-residence/ |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref>
* [[Fabian Osuji]] – former Minister of Education<ref>{{Cite web |title=Fabian Osuji's biography, fact, career, awards, net worth and life story - Wiki |url=https://wiki.2kw.net/en/people/fabian-osuji-biography-fact-career-awards-net-worth-and-life-story-11025 |access-date=2022-03-17 |language=en-US }}{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
* [[Ugonna Ozurigbo]] – Deputy Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly (2015–), and Member<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-04-25 |title=If my child isn't good at maths, I'd call for DNA test – Imo Rep, Ozurigbo |url=https://punchng.com/if-my-child-isnt-good-at-maths-id-call-for-dna-test-imo-rep-ozurigbo/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Achike Udenwa]] – former Governor<ref>{{Cite web |title=Governor Achike Udenwa Archives {{!}} Premium Times Nigeria |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/tag/governor-achike-udenwa |access-date=2022-03-12 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* [[Hope Uzodinma]] - Governor of Imo state<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigerian Politician Hope Uzodinma Biography |date=19 April 2024 |url=https://hitmusiz.com/hope-uzodinma-biography/ |access-date=2024-04-19 |language=en-GB}}</ref>


===Other===
===Other===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
* [[Adiele Afigbo]] – historian
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Michael Echeruo]] – academic and writer in Igbo studies
* [[Adiele Afigbo]] – historian<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Harneit-Seivers |first=Axel |date=2007-07-01 |title=Igbo History and Society: The essays of Adiele Afigbo, edited by Toyin FalolaMyth, History and Society: The collected works of Adiele Afigbo, edited by Toyin Falola |journal=African Affairs |volume=106 |issue=424 |pages=529–531 |doi=10.1093/afraf/adm029 |issn=0001-9909}}</ref>
* [[Michael Ikoku]] — businessman
* [[Peter Akah]] - Former Vice Chancellor, Imo State University<ref>{{Cite news |last=Duruamaku |first=Victor |date=December 8, 2021 |title=IMSU VC calls for increased budgetary allocation on education sector |url=https://championnews.com.ng/imsu-vc-calls-for-increased-budgetary-allocation-on-education-sector/ |access-date=August 9, 2024 |website=[[Daily Champion]] |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Chidi Nwaogu]], co-founder and CEO of Publiseer, one of the largest digital publishers in Africa.
* [[Victor Adibe Chikwe]] - Roman Catholic bishop
* [[Evelyn Okere]] – Nigerian businesswoman, publisher, fashion designer and the organizer of the St. Eve West African Fashion Week
* [[Michael Echeruo]] – academic and writer in Igbo studies<ref>{{Cite web |title=Echeruo, Michael (Joseph Chukwudalu) {{!}} Encyclopedia.com |url=https://www.encyclopedia.com/arts/culture-magazines/echeruo-michael-joseph-chukwudalu |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=www.encyclopedia.com}}</ref>
*[[Ada Ehi]] — Nigerian gospel musician<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gospel singer Ada Ehi hits one million subscribers on YouTube - P.M. News |url=https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2021/08/26/gospel-singer-ada-ehi-hits-one-million-subscribers-on-youtube/ |access-date=2023-05-16 |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Nelson Enwerem]] - [[Mr Nigeria]] winner (2018)<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBNaija Prince's true confessions |date=25 July 2020 |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/07/bbnaija-princes-true-confessions/amp/}}</ref>
* [[Emmanuel Ibezim]] - professor of pharmaceutics.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Profile of Emmanuel Ibezim |url=https://staffprofile.unn.edu.ng/profile/422 |access-date=2024-09-18 |website=staffprofile.unn.edu.ng}}</ref>
* [[Nenny B]] – media personality<ref>{{Cite web |title=Biography of Nenny B, Award Winning TV Presenter |url=https://www.modernghana.com/nollywood/35625/biography-of-nenny-b-award-winning-tv-presenter.html |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Modern Ghana |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Austin N. Nosike]] - professor of economics and management
* [[Mary Nzimiro]] - pioneering medical doctor
* [[Priscilla Nzimiro]] - medical doctor<ref>{{Cite web |last=Korkus |first=Stella Dimoko |title=Tragic Story Of Ada Priscilla Nzimiro Nigeria's 1st Female Igbo Doctor |url=https://www.stelladimokokorkus.com/2019/08/tragic-story-of-ada-priscilla-nzimiro.html |access-date=2023-12-10}}</ref>
* [[Odumeje]] — Clergyman.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Humphery |date=2022-02-17 |title=Odumeje Biography and Net Worth (the Indabosky) |url=https://nyscinfo.com/odumeje-net-worth-and-biography/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=Nyscinfo.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Evelyn Okere]] – Nigerian businesswoman, publisher, fashion designer<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-11-29 |title=I have passion for good health, beauty and fashion - Okere |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/11/passion-good-health-beauty-fashion-okere/ |access-date=2022-03-17 |website=Vanguard News |language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Jaja of Opobo]] - first king (amanyanabo) of [[Opobo]].


== References ==
== References ==
Line 371: Line 455:


== External links ==
== External links ==
* [http://www.imostate.gov.ng/imo-government/ Official site]
* {{official website|http://www.imostate.gov.ng/imo-government/}} — {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610114918/http://www.imostate.gov.ng/imo-government |date=10 June 2016 }}
* [http://www.naij.com/tag/imo-state.html Latest news]


{{Imo State}}
{{ImoStateGovernors}}
{{ImoStateGovernors}}
{{Nigeria states}}
{{Nigeria states}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Portal bar|Nigeria}}


[[Category:States of Nigeria]]
[[Category:Imo State| ]]
[[Category:Imo State| ]]
[[Category:States of Nigeria]]
[[Category:States in Igboland]]
[[Category:States in Igboland]]
[[Category:States and territories established in 1976]]
[[Category:States and territories established in 1976]]
[[Category:Library of Congress Africa Collection related]]
[[Category:Library of Congress Africa Collection related]]
[[Category:1976 establishments in Nigeria]]

Latest revision as of 23:18, 19 December 2024

Imo
Flag of Imo
Seal of Imo State
Nicknames: 
Location of Imo State in Nigeria
Location of Imo State in Nigeria
Coordinates: 5°29′N 7°2′E / 5.483°N 7.033°E / 5.483; 7.033
Country Nigeria
Created3 February 1976
CapitalOwerri
Government
 • GovernorHope Uzodinma (APC)
 • Deputy GovernorLady Chinyere Ekomaru (APC)
 • LegislatureImo State House of Assembly
 • SenatorsE: Onyewuchi Francis Ezenwa (LP)
N: Frank Ibezim (APC)
W: Osita Izunaso (APC)
 • RepresentativesList
Area
 • Total
5,530 km2 (2,140 sq mi)
 • RankRanked 34th
Population
 (2017 est.)[3]1
 • Total
4,927,563[1]
 • Estimate 
(2022)
5,459,300[2]
 • Rank13th of 36
DemonymImolite
GDP (PPP)
 • Year2021
 • Total$49.69 billion[4]
4th of 36
 • Per capita$7,828[4]
3rd of 36
Time zoneUTC+01 (WAT)
postal code
460001
ISO 3166 codeNG-IM
HDI (2022)0.693[5]
medium · 3rd of 37
LanguageIgbo
English
^1 Preliminary results

Imo State (Igbo: Ọra Imo) is a state in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bordered to the north by Anambra State, Rivers State to the west and south, and Abia State to the east.[6] It takes its name from the Imo River which flows along the state's eastern border. The state capital is Owerri and the State's slogan is the "Eastern Heartland."[7]

Of the 36 States in Nigeria, Imo is the third smallest in area but is fourteenth most populous with an estimated population of over 5.4 million as of 2022.[8] Geographically, the state is divided between the Niger Delta swamp forests in the far east and the drier Cross–Niger transition forests in the rest of the state. Other key geographical features are the state's rivers and lakes with the Awbana, Imo, Orashi, and Otamiri rivers along with the Oguta Lake in western Imo State.[9]

Modern-day Imo State has been inhabited for almost a thousand years by the Igbo people with the Igbo language serving as a lingua franca alongside English throughout the state. In the pre-colonial period, what is now Imo State was a part of medieval Kingdom of Nri and the later Aro Confederacy before the latter was defeated in the early 1900s by British troop then the Anglo-Aro War. After the war, the British incorporated the area into the Southern Nigeria Protectorate which later merged into British Nigeria in 1914; after the merger, Imo became a centre of anti-colonial resistance during the Women's War.[10]

After independence in 1960, the area of the present-day Imo was a part of the post-independence Eastern Region until 1967 when the region was split and the area became part of the East Central State. Less than two months afterwards, the former Eastern Region attempted to secede in the three-year long Nigerian Civil War with Imo as a part of the secessionist, Igbo nationalist state of Biafra. The area was hard fought over throughout the war with Owerri and its surrounding area exchanging hands twice before Owerri was named the Biafran capital in 1969. The present-day Imo State was captured by federal forces in early 1970 with Operation Tail-Wind taking the city and ending the war.[11] At the war's end and the reunification of Nigeria, the East Central State was reformed until 1976 when Imo State was formed by the Murtala Muhammed regime. Fifteen years afterwards, Imo State was divided with eastern Imo being broken off to form the new Abia State.[12][13]

The state economy is highly dependent on agricultural production, especially the production of palm oil, which a majority of citizens rely on for cooking.[14] A key minor industry is the extraction of crude oil and natural gas,[15] especially in Imo's north and west. The state has been beset by violence at various points throughout its history, most notably the anti-cult 1996 Otokoto Riots[16] and the ongoing separatist violence from the Eastern Security Network[17] along with other opportunistic nativist gunmen. Despite unrest, with its fast growing population and industrialization, Imo State has the joint-sixth highest Human Development Index in the country.[18]

Geography

[edit]

Location

[edit]

Imo State is bordered by Anambra State to the north for 84 km (52 miles), Abia State to the east for about 104 km (partly in the vicinity of the Imo River), and Rivers State to the south and west for about 122 km.[19][20] The state lies within latitudes 4°45'N and 7°15'N, and longitude 6°50'E and 7°25'E, with an area of around 5,100 sq km.[21]

Natural resources

[edit]

The state has several natural resources which includes, crude oil, natural gas, lead, calcium carbonate, solar and wind power, zinc.[19][22]

Profitable flora including iroko, mahogany, obeche, bamboo, rubber tree and oil palm. Additionally white clay, fine sand and limestone are also found in the state.[19]

Climate

[edit]

The rainy season begins in April and lasts until October,[23] with annual rainfall varying from 1,500 mm to 2,200 mm (60 to 80 inches).[21][24]

An average annual temperature above 20 °C (68.0 °F), creates an annual relative humidity of 75%. With humidity reaching 90% in the rainy season. The dry season experiences two months of Harmattan, from late December to late February. The hottest months are between January and March.[21][23][24]

With high population density and over farming, the soil has been degraded and much of the native vegetation has disappeared.[21]

This deforestation has triggered soil erosion, which is compounded by heavy seasonal rainfall that has led to the destruction of houses and roads.[21][25][26]

Environmental issues

[edit]

Soil erosion

[edit]

Soil erosion is the most common geo-environmental hazard in Imo State, with over 360 erosion sites, out of which 57 are confirmed to be critical and in need of immediate remediation.[27][28] They are mostly gully erosion found in Ideato, Orlu, Ihitte-uboma, Arondizuogu, Umuomi-ikeduru and Njaba areas of the state. These gullies are attributed mainly to poor civil engineering works, specifically road/gutter construction as well as sand mining. During road construction, adequate control of the runoff generated in this process is poorly taken into consideration. There is also no proper termination, spill way, and gabions to lower intense flow to non-erosion velocities during gutter construction. Hence, rainwater overflow from concrete gutters resulting in erosion, especially at the intersection of gutter and road.[27]

Due to gullies, farmlands have been significantly affected, with both farmlands and their road paths lost. There is also loss of social infrastructures such as, electricity and pipe-borne waters. Communities such as Ikeduru, Orlu, Ehime Mbano, Nwangele, Nkwerre and Mbaitoli dependent on stream and harvested rainwater for domestic use have been impacted due to surface water/stream pollution caused by intense runoffs from the gully sites.[27]

Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), kick-started in the state on November 11, 2014 and the ecological fund are some of the interventions for soil erosion in the State.[29][30] Communities such as Eziala- Obizi in Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA; Iyiuzo-Ihioma-Ogberuru in Orlu LGA; Umueshi-Amanato in Ideato South LGA; Umuturu -Ezemazu -Urualla in Ideato North LGA; Umunumo Ibeafor in Ehime Mbano LGA; and Umueze Obazu-Mbieri in Mbaitoli LGA are beneficiaries of the NEWMAP project in Imo State.[31]

Flooding

[edit]

Available research identifies Oguta, Ohaji/Egbema, Ngor Okpala, Owerri West, Owerri North, Aboh Mbaise and Owerri municipal LGAs as very high flood areas; Mbaitolu, Ikeduru, Aboh Mbaise, Onuimo, IhiteUboma, Obowo and Ehime Mbano LGAs as moderate flood hazard areas; and northern of Isiala Mbano, Nwangele, Nkwere, Orlu, Ehime Mbano and Southern part of Ideato North, Okigwe and Ideato South LGAs as low flood hazard areas.[32]

In August 2019, flooding caused by heavy rain submerged about 70 houses, displaced 2000 villagers and destroyed farmlands in Orsu-Obodo community, in the Oguta local government area.[33][34] Many residents in the state capital (Owerri) were also displaced in 2017.[35] The Orlu-Umuchima-Obiohia-Akokwa-Uga federal road has been cut off by gully erosion thereby leaving motorists and other road users stranded.[36]

Ideato North and Ideato South have been erosion high risk areas in recent times in Imo State.[37][38] Isiala Mbano is also not left out in these frequent flood disaster in Imo State.[39]

Oil and gas exploration

[edit]

There are over 163 oil wells, at over 12 different locations in the State.[19][40] The main petroleum companies operating in the State are Addax Petroleum, Chevron Corporation, Royal Dutch Shell and Agip.[19] Some of the established oil-rich local government councils include: Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, Oru East, Iho, Oru West, Obowo and Ngor Okpala.[41] In recent times, indigenes of Ohaji/Egbema communities have been protesting about poor basic amenities in their host community despite the presence of oil producing companies.[42][43][44]

Investment opportunities

[edit]

Many investment opportunities exist in the State including oil and gas exploration, chemical plants, brewery plants, hydroelectric plants, gas-fired power plants, grain mills, starch production, cashews, fruit and vegetable juice concentrate production, integrated multi-oil seed processing plants, ceramics, inland waterway transport, and palm produce industry.[19]

Independent global brewer Heineken, through its subsidiary Nigerian Breweries, has significant investment in Imo State.[45] The company manages the world-class Awo-omamma Brewery, a multiple-line plant.[46]

Many more oil and gas opportunities are yet to be developed.[19] The federal government has been called to inspect newly discovered oil-rich areas, which might help foster economic development and job creation.[47]

Industrial parks and processing zones to harness the huge agricultural produce and minerals would give a major boost to the state's economic growth and industrialization.[19]

Oguta Lake, Palm Beach Holiday Resort in Awo-omamma, and a host of other tourist sites along the banks of the 26 km-length Njaba River present hotspots for tourism.[48]: 34 

Agriculture

[edit]

Agriculture is the primary occupation, but due to over-farming and high population density, the soil has greatly degraded.This could be as a result of inefficient production techniques, poor resource base, declining soil productivity, predominance of primitive techniques of agricultural production, inadequate supply of credit, low capital investment, use of crude implements to mention but a few.[19][49] The Agricultural sector in Imo State, needs the intervention of the state government and other huge private companies, this is because having a strong economy based on crude oil, natural gas and palm oil will not aid for the development of the state.

History

[edit]

Imo State came into existence in 1976, along with other new states created under the leadership of the late military ruler of Nigeria, Murtala Muhammed, having been previously part of East-Central State. The state is named after the Imo River, which bears the name of a prominent Nigerian family with that family name, who were the chiefs of Imo State before the ratification of a more formal government.[50] Part of it was split off in 1991 as Abia State, and another part became Ebonyi State.[51]

Imo State was created at Ngwoma, and the meetings for the state creation which began after the Nigerian Civil War[52] ended in 1970 were chaired by Eze S. E. Onukogu.[51][53]

The people of Imo State carried out the Otokoto riots of 1996, which was a statewide protest, in response to the serial kidnappings and murders occurring in Imo at that point in time.[54] One of the most remarkable riots that took place in Imo state, that led to the destruction of properties was the #ENDSARS protest. This protest which started peacefully not only in Imo state, led to riots and destruction of police stations, and killing of security personnel[55]#ENDSARS in Imo State.

Government

[edit]

The State has a three-tier administrative structure: State, Local and Autonomous community levels. The three arms at state level are the Executive, the Legislative and the Judiciary.[56] The executive arm is headed by an elected Governor, who is assisted by a deputy governor, commissioners and executive advisers.

This is a list of administrators and governors of Imo State since its creation.

Name Title Took office Left office Party
Ndubuisi Kanu[57] Governor Mar 1976 1977 (Military)
Adekunle Lawal Governor 1977 Jul 1978 (Military)
Sunday Ajibade Adenihun Governor Jul 1978 Oct 1979 (Military)
Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe[58] Governor 1 Oct 1979 31 Dec 1983 NPP
Ike Nwachukwu[59] Governor Jan 1984 Aug 1985 (Military)
Allison Amakoduna Madueke[60] Governor Aug 1985 1986 (Military)
Amadi Ikechegh[61] Governor 1986 1990 (Military)
Anthony E. Oguguo[62] Governor Aug 1990 Jan 1992 (Military)
Evan Enwerem[63] Governor Jan 1992 Nov 1993 NRC
James N.J. Aneke[64] Administrator 9 Dec 1993 22 Aug 1996 (Military)
Tanko Zubairu[65] Administrator 22 Aug 1996 May 1999 (Military)
Achike Udenwa[66] Governor 29 May 1999 29 May 2007 PDP
Ikedi G. Ohakim[67] Governor 29 May 2007 29 May 2011 PPA / PDP
Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha[68] Governor 29 May 2011 29 May 2019 APGA/APC
Emeka Ihedioha[69] Governor 29 May 2019 15 Jan 2020 PDP
Hope Uzodinma[70][71] Governor 15 Jan 2020 Till date APC

The legislative arm is headed by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly. The current Speaker is Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, and his deputy is Rt. Hon. Amara iwuanyanwu. The remainder of the house is made up of elected legislators, from the 27 LGAs of the State.

At the 10th state house assembly (2023), the current speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly is Hon. Chike Olemgbe. He is a first-time member representing Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area.[72][73] Also, the Deputy Speaker of the house is Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, who is a member representing the Nwangele constituency.[74]

The judiciary is made up of the high court of justice and the customary court of appeal and is headed by the Chief Judge of the State.[75]

Local Government Areas

[edit]
Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State
Oru West L.G.A. Imo State
Orlu Local Government Area, Imo State
Okigwe Local Government Area, Imo State

Imo State consists of 27 local government areas:

Smaller jurisdictions in the state may receive township status or urban status.[76][77]

Demographics

[edit]

The state has over 5.5 million people, and the population density varies from 230 to 1,400 people per square kilometre.[21] Christianity and Odinani are the majority religions, with Odinani becoming more common as citizens are beginning to embrace their religious heritage.[78] In addition to its capital, other notable towns are Orlu, Obowo, Oguta, Awo-Omamma, Mgbidi, Mbaise, Okigwe and Ohaji/Egbema.

Imo State is a predominantly Igbo-speaking state, with Igbo people constituting a majority of the population (around 98%).[79]

Religion

[edit]

Majority of Imo State residents are Christians. Catholics (2021) in the Archdiocese of Owerri (1948) with 162 parishes under Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji (2022), and two suffragan dioceses of Okigwe (1981) with 119 parishes under Bishop Solomon Amanchukwu Amatu (2006) and Orlu (1980) with 189 parishes under Bishop Augustine Tochukwu Ukwuoma (2008). The Anglican Church of Nigeria includes the Province of Owerri led by Archbishop David Onuoha (2020), also Bishop of Okigwe South, and 10 other Dioceses of Okigwe South (1994) led by Bishop David Onuoha (2004), Owerri led by Bishop Chukwuma Oparah (2018), Orlu led by Bishop Benjamin Chinedum Okeke (2019), Mbaise(1992) led by Bishop Chamberlain Chinedu Ogunedo (2010), Isi Mbano led by Bishop Godson Udochukwu Ukanwa, Ideato(1999) led by Bishop Henry Okeke (2020), Ohaji/Egbema led by Bishop Childi Collins Oparaojiaku (2008), On the Lake led by Bishop Chijioke Oti (2008), Oru led by Bishop Geoffrey Chukwunenye (2008), Okigwe led by Bishop Edward Osuegbu, and Ikeduru led by Bishop Emmanuel Maduwike (2009).

Politics

[edit]

The state government is led by a democratically elected governor who works closely with members of the state's house of assembly. The Capital city of the State is Owerri.[80]

Electoral system

[edit]

The electoral system of each state is selected using a modified two-round system. To be elected in the first round, a candidate must receive the plurality of the vote and over 25% of the vote in at least two-thirds of the State Local Government Areas. If no candidate passes this threshold, a second round will be held between the top candidate and the next candidate to have received a plurality of votes in the highest number of Local Government Areas.[81]

Education

[edit]

Institutions of higher learning

[edit]

This is a list of the higher institutions located in Imo State:

Transport

[edit]

Federal Highways

[edit]

Other major roads include

[edit]
  • the Uli-Aguta Rd north to Uli in Anambra State
  • the Ihiala-Orlu Rd to Anambra State,
  • the Nnewi-Okigwe Rd via Akokwa and Akwa-Okigwe Rd north to Anambra State,
  • Okigwe-Afikpo Rd east to Abia State at Okigwe,
  • the Umu-Opara Rd from Umoke to Abia State,
  • the Umu-Ohie-Uku-Amala-Ibodo Rd southwest from Okpuala via Eziama and Amala to Olakwo in Rivers State,
  • the Owerri-Ahoada Rd southwest to Rivers State,
  • the Okwuzi-Aguta Rd south to the Ogura-Omoku Rd in Rivers State.

Airports

[edit]

Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.

Notable people

[edit]

Sport

[edit]

Arts

[edit]

Politics

[edit]

Other

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "2017 PHC Priority Tables – NATIONAL POPULATION COMMISSION". population.gov.ng. Archived from the original on 10 October 2017. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
  2. ^ "Imo State: Subdivision". www.citypopulation.de. Retrieved 5 February 2024.
  3. ^ "2006 Population Census" (PDF). National Bureau of Statistics of Nigeria. May 2007. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 June 2011. Retrieved 27 July 2010.
  4. ^ a b Okeowo, Gabriel; Fatoba, Iyanuoluwa, eds. (13 October 2022). "State of States 2022 Edition" (PDF). Budgit.org. BudgIT. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  5. ^ "Sub-national HDI - Area Database - Global Data Lab". hdi.globaldatalab.org. Retrieved 13 September 2018.
  6. ^ "Imo | state, Nigeria | Britannica". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  7. ^ "Nigeria's 36 States and Their Slogans". nigerianfinder.com. 10 August 2019. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  8. ^ "Nigeria Population 2022 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)". worldpopulationreview.com. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  9. ^ "What are the two lakes in Imo State?". big board scouting. 22 July 2022. Archived from the original on 3 September 2022. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  10. ^ "Aba Women's Riots (November-December 1929) •". 27 March 2009. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  11. ^ "History of Imo State | Culture | Economy | People | Naijabiography". Naijabiography Media. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  12. ^ "This is how the 36 states were created". Pulse.ng. 24 October 2017. Retrieved 15 December 2021.
  13. ^ "Abia | state, Nigeria | Britannica". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  14. ^ Chukwu, A. O.; Onweagba, A. E.; Nwosu, C. S.; Osondu, P. C. (2011). "Economic Assessment of Palm Oil Processing in Owerri Agricultural Zone of Imo State". International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development. 14 (2): 703–706. ISSN 1595-9716.
  15. ^ "Opiah: With 18 Recovered Oil Wells, Imo Now Fourth Highest Producing State – THISDAYLIVE". www.thisdaylive.com. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  16. ^ Sherifat, Lawal (19 September 2020). "Remembering Otokoto uprising". Vanguard News. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  17. ^ "IPOB/ESN leader killed in Imo, Police claim". Punch Newspapers. 28 August 2021. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  18. ^ "Human Development Indices". Global Data Lab. Retrieved 15 December 2021.
  19. ^ a b c d e f g h i Vanguard, Nigeria (2 June 2015). "Exploring the resource control option – Imo State, by Futureview CEO, Elizabeth Ebi". vanguardngr.com. Archived from the original on 8 December 2015. Retrieved 30 November 2015.
  20. ^ "Imo | state, Nigeria". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  21. ^ a b c d e f "About Imo State". Imo State, Nigeria: Imo State Government. Archived from the original on 17 July 2010. Retrieved 27 July 2010.
  22. ^ "Industries in Imo State". Imo State, Nigeria: Imo State Government. Archived from the original on 14 March 2010. Retrieved 27 July 2010.
  23. ^ a b "Climate and Weather - climate info and current weather in Nigeria". www.wordtravels.com. Archived from the original on 23 October 2017. Retrieved 29 April 2018.
  24. ^ a b "Regions Used to Interpret the Complexity of Nigeria". Geographical Alliance of Iowa. University of Northern Iowa. Archived from the original on 14 April 2009. Retrieved 19 July 2007.
  25. ^ Africatalksclimate.com Archived 7 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine
  26. ^ Ihiegbulem, Emeka (17 December 2009). "Nigeria: Erosion - Ihioma Network Appeals to FG". Archived from the original on 12 October 2012. Retrieved 29 April 2018 – via AllAfrica.
  27. ^ a b c Amangabara, G. T.; Njoku, J. D.; Iwuji, M. C. (24 January 2018). "People's Perception of Soil Erosion and Its Impact in Imo State, Nigeria". SSRN 3108294.
  28. ^ "Imo requires N75bn to tackle 360 erosion sites — Uzodinma". Vanguard News. 27 November 2020. Retrieved 28 February 2022.
  29. ^ "NEWMAP Commences Means To Tackle Erosion In Imo State". Channels Television. 21 June 2015. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
  30. ^ "Cut off! The face of catastophic erosion and the fear of being washed away in Imo". Vanguard News. 19 September 2021. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
  31. ^ "Cut off! The face of catastophic erosion and the fear of being washed away in Imo". Vanguard News. 19 September 2021. Retrieved 28 February 2022.
  32. ^ "FLOOD RISK AND VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT OF OWERRI IMO STATE | Free Research Project". freeresearchproject.com.ng. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  33. ^ "Flood submerges 70 houses, renders 2000 homeless in Imo". Punch Newspapers. 3 August 2019. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  34. ^ "NEMA raises alarm over impending flooding in Imo". Businessday NG. 17 August 2020. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  35. ^ Olowolagba, Fikayo (22 September 2017). "Flood hits Imo, residents stranded [PHOTOS]". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  36. ^ "GULLY EROSION: Fully-loaded bus falls into ditch in Imo". Vanguard News. 2 October 2021. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
  37. ^ "Senate urges NEMA to relocate residents from high-risk erosion areas in Imo". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. 7 July 2023. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  38. ^ Sunday, Ochogwu (13 July 2021). "Imo: Gully erosion severs road, cuts off community from Owerri town". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  39. ^ Okeoma, Chidiebube (19 April 2022). "Erosion sacks Imo community after downpour". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  40. ^ Onykwelu, Stephen (12 February 2020). "Imo financial advisory committee writes Uzodinma, claims nine banks owe state N112.8bn". Business Day. Retrieved 30 June 2022.
  41. ^ Vanguard, Nigeria (14 March 2014). "Imo Govt discovers more crude oil". vanguardngr.com. Archived from the original on 8 December 2015. Retrieved 30 November 2015.
  42. ^ Adedeji, Tunji (11 August 2022). "Imo community protests abandonment, demands 50% of N70bn oil tax money paid by oil companies". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  43. ^ Tijesuni (23 November 2022). "Communities shut down oil companies in Imo, demands compensation". Tribune Online. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  44. ^ www.premiumtimesng.com https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/374247-special-report-residents-of-imo-community-suffer-as-nddc-abandons-education-electricity-water-projects.html?tztc=1. Retrieved 11 July 2023. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  45. ^ "HEINEKEN majority owned subsidiaries Nigerian Breweries plc and Consolidated Breweries plc to merge". www.theheinekencompany.com. 9 May 2014. Archived from the original on 7 February 2016. Retrieved 3 January 2016.
  46. ^ "Nigerian Breweries invests N3bn in Awo-Omamma, N18bn in Aba Breweries". beverageindustrynews.com.ng. 8 December 2015. Archived from the original on 5 January 2016. Retrieved 3 January 2016.
  47. ^ Vanguard, Nigeria (14 March 2014). "Imo Govt discovers more crude oil". vanguardngr.com. Archived from the original on 8 December 2015. Retrieved 16 January 2016.
  48. ^ "Niger Delta Region Land and People" (PDF). www.nddc.gov.ng. Federal Republic of Nigeria. Archived (PDF) from the original on 6 March 2016. Retrieved 16 January 2016.
  49. ^ Onyenweaku, C. E.; Nwachukwu, Ifeanyi N.; Opara, T. C. (2 September 2010). "Productivity Growth in Food Crop Production in Imo State, Nigeria". mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  50. ^ "Physical Setting: Imo State". OnlineNigeria.com. Devace Nigeria. Archived from the original on 26 September 2007. Retrieved 13 August 2007.
  51. ^ a b "History Of Imo State". Nigeria Zip Codes. 29 May 2019. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
  52. ^ "Civil war breaks out in Nigeria". HISTORY. Retrieved 12 June 2021.
  53. ^ "About Imo State, Nigeria". Media Nigeria. 24 December 2021. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
  54. ^ "Otokoto ritual murder: 20 things to know about convict hanged 20 years after crime". Punch Newspapers. 19 November 2016. Retrieved 7 July 2021.
  55. ^ "Nigeria's '#EndSARS' protest grievances will persist". Emerald Expert Briefings. 9 November 2020. doi:10.1108/oxan-es257381. ISSN 2633-304X. S2CID 240972670.
  56. ^ "Three Branches of Government | Harry S. Truman". www.trumanlibrary.gov. Retrieved 10 September 2021.
  57. ^ "After changing lawyer, court fines Ndubuisi Kanu's widow". 8 February 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  58. ^ Adeolu (15 March 2017). "MBAKWE, Chief Samuel Onunaka (Late)". Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  59. ^ "Ike Nwachukwu: True reflection of what Nigeria ought to be". Vanguard News. 12 January 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  60. ^ "Diezani Alison-Madueke". frontend. Retrieved 17 March 2022.[permanent dead link]
  61. ^ Emeruwa, Chijindu (12 April 2021). "Nigeria Navy immortalizes late ex-Imo military Gov, Commodore Amadi Ikwechegh". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  62. ^ "Anthony E. Oguguo's biography, fact, career, awards, net worth and life story - Wiki". Retrieved 17 March 2022.[permanent dead link]
  63. ^ a b Maduawuchi. "Biography Of Senator Evan Enwerem: Former Senate President of Nigeria". Nigerian Infopedia. Archived from the original on 9 May 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  64. ^ "James N.J. Aneke's biography, fact, career, awards, net worth and life story - Wiki". Archived from the original on 17 March 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  65. ^ "Tanko, ex Imo state MILAD, laid to rest in Kaduna". Vanguard News. 3 December 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  66. ^ "Achike Udenwa Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  67. ^ "Ohakim, ex-Imo governor, joins APC". TheCable. 28 July 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  68. ^ a b "Rochas Okorocha Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  69. ^ a b "Emeka Ihedioha Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  70. ^ "Shock waves, as Supreme Court sacks Ihedioha in Imo". 15 January 2020.
  71. ^ "Hope Uzodinma Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  72. ^ Adedeji, Tunji (16 June 2023). "Imo Assembly elects Olemgbe, 40, new speaker". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  73. ^ Ugwu, Chinagorom (16 June 2023). "First-timer lawmaker elected speaker of Imo Assembly". Premium Times Nigeria. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  74. ^ Okeoma, Chidiebube (16 June 2023). "First-time lawmaker elected Imo Speaker". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 11 July 2023.
  75. ^ "IMO STATE - OnlineNigeria.com". www.onlinenigeria.com. Archived from the original on 26 August 2015. Retrieved 29 April 2018.
  76. ^ "Local Government Organization in Imo State". Library of Congress Pamphlet Collection – Flickr. 2 May 2014. Retrieved 11 May 2014.
  77. ^ jlukmon (29 March 2023). "List of 27 Local Governments in Imo State and their Headquarters". ABOUT NIGERIANS. Retrieved 5 May 2023.
  78. ^ Jacobsen, Scott Douglas (23 February 2018). "An upcoming gathering of humanists in Owerri, Imo State, Southern Nigeria". Humanist Voices. Retrieved 3 September 2022.
  79. ^ "Imo State". www.igbofocus.co.uk. Archived from the original on 14 October 2017. Retrieved 29 April 2018.
  80. ^ Oguntola, Tunde (27 September 2022). "2023: Next President, Govs Must Get Two-thirds Spread, Says INEC". Retrieved 24 February 2023.
  81. ^ Oguntola, Tunde (27 September 2022). "2023: Next President, Govs Must Get Two-thirds Spread, Says INEC". Retrieved 24 February 2023.
  82. ^ "List of Courses Offered at Federal polytechnic, Nekede (NEKEDEPOLY)". Nigerian Scholars. 1 January 2020. Retrieved 14 June 2021.
  83. ^ "Education in Imo State". Imo State, Nigeria: Imo State Government. Archived from the original on 16 July 2010. Retrieved 27 July 2010.
  84. ^ "List of Courses Offered at FUTO with Admission Requirements". www.myschoolgist.com. 9 October 2020. Retrieved 14 June 2021.
  85. ^ "Hezekiah University unihez| School Fees, Courses & Admission info". universitycompass.com. Retrieved 13 March 2022.
  86. ^ "List of Courses Offered by Imo State Polytechnic". www.myschoolgist.com. 1 December 2021. Retrieved 13 March 2022.
  87. ^ "List Of IMSU Courses and Programmes Offered - MySchoolGist". www.myschoolgist.com. 9 October 2020. Retrieved 14 June 2021.
  88. ^ "Imo State University | INOMICS". inomics.com. Retrieved 13 March 2022.
  89. ^ "Imo govt seizes Eastern Palm University from Okorocha - P.M. News". Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  90. ^ "Chioma Ajunwa Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 14 March 2022.
  91. ^ "INTERVIEW: Why I am happy, another Nigerian broke my 25-year-old African Record - Chioma Ajunwa". 19 June 2021. Retrieved 14 March 2022.
  92. ^ "Chidobe Awuzie, Cincinnati Bengals, CB - News, Stats, Bio". CBSSports.com. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  93. ^ "Kelechi Iheanacho's Biography, Salary and Net Worth". BuzzNigeria.com. 20 June 2018. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  94. ^ "My last moment with Samuel Okwaraji - Ex-Nigeria midfielder | Premium Times Nigeria". 12 August 2019. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  95. ^ "Levi Onwuzurike Stats". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  96. ^ "Black History Month Heroes: Nwankwo Kanu". Premiere league. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
  97. ^ "Memoriam To A Quintessential Woman, Great Amazon-Prof. Catherine Acholonu". Nigeria Watchdog Newspaper. 17 March 2021. Retrieved 14 March 2022.
  98. ^ "DID YOU KNOW? Fireboy, Asake, Chinko Ekun, BlaqBonez are OAU graduates". TheCable Lifestyle. 26 May 2022. Retrieved 14 April 2023.
  99. ^ "Charly Boy Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 15 March 2022.
  100. ^ "Chidinma, Biography". mobile.ghanaweb.com. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  101. ^ "Rita Dominic Biography: How Old Is the Actress and What Is Her Net Worth?". BuzzNigeria.com. 24 February 2015. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  102. ^ "Dallas-based film maker, Kelechi Eke brings VILLAFFEST to Owerri". Vanguard Nigeria.
  103. ^ Victoria, Chukwuani (4 November 2020). "Actor, Prince Eke drags ex-wife Muma gee for saying her failed marriage is a disgrace". Kemi Filani News. Retrieved 15 March 2022.
  104. ^ "Fave Biography, Wikipedia, Real Name, Net Worth, Songs, Social Media, Career". Song Hit. 5 April 2023. Retrieved 14 April 2023.
  105. ^ Mbuthia, Mercy (20 August 2021). "Osita Iheme biography: age, height, wife, kids, house, cars, movies". Legit.ng - Nigeria news. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  106. ^ "Popular comedienne Ada Jesus is dead | Premium Times Nigeria". 21 April 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  107. ^ "Jidenna talks '85 To Africa' album, the importance of Africa, the REVOLT Summit, dating life and more". REVOLT. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  108. ^ "Kanayo O. Kanayo: What Better Title Than Veteran?". guardian.ng. March 2019. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  109. ^ "John Munonye | Nigerian educator and novelist". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  110. ^ "Genevieve Nnaji Biography: Who Is the Star Actress and How Old Is She?". BuzzNigeria.com. 5 October 2015. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  111. ^ "Music And Songs career". Song Hit. 14 August 2023. Retrieved 26 August 2023.
  112. ^ "Amazing story of Onyeka Nwelue, Nigerian youth who founded James Curreý Society in UK". Vanguard News. 1 January 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  113. ^ Sobowale, Adetutu (8 October 2024). "Missing Speed Darlington in police custody- Deji Adeyanju". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 9 October 2024.
  114. ^ "Onyeka Onwenu Opens Up On Failed Marriage And Raising Children". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. 4 February 2022. Archived from the original on 5 March 2023. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  115. ^ Okanlawon, Taiwo (25 April 2022). "Meet Snazzy the Optimist, the genre-pushing artist on the rise". Lambo ˣᵗʳᵃ. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  116. ^ Mongina, Night (5 February 2023). "Victony's biography: age, state of origin, songs, accident". Legit.ng. Retrieved 14 April 2023.
  117. ^ "Sir Warrior - Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna biography, net worth, age, family, contact & picture". www.manpower.com.ng. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  118. ^ "Supreme Court of Nigeria". www.supremecourt.gov.ng. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  119. ^ "Christiana "Chris" Anyanwu, Role Model, Senior Special Assistant, Politician Journalist, News Caster, Anchor and Entreprenuer [sic], Prominent Nigerian, Nigeria Personality Profiles". www.nigeriagalleria.com. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  120. ^ "Araraume's NNPC appointment: Debunking the lies". Vanguard News. 25 September 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  121. ^ "Kema Chikwe Archives". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 17 March 2022.[permanent dead link]
  122. ^ "The Jonathan National Dialogue: Conflict Resolution Or Conflict Insemination".
  123. ^ "ICC President Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji Remarks at ceremony for the solemn undertaking of six new judges and the departure of six outgoing judges". www.icc-cpi.int. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  124. ^ Emeruwa, Chijindu (17 February 2019). "Nigeria Decides: Federal lawmaker, Bede Eke slams INEC over postponement, says PDP poised to send Buhari to Daura". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  125. ^ "Iwu - I've No Regret Over April Polls (Allafrica) —". aceproject.org. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  126. ^ "Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu biography, net worth, age, family, contact & picture". www.manpower.com.ng. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  127. ^ "Breaking: Ex- Imo Deputy Governor's father regains freedom". Vanguard News. 24 November 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  128. ^ Lynch, Hollis R (2012). K.O. Mbadiwe: a Nigerian political biography, 1915-1990. New York: NY : Palgrave Macmillan. ISBN 978-1-137-00261-7. OCLC 826736399.
  129. ^ Adeolu (15 March 2017). "MBAKWE, Chief Samuel Onunaka (Late)". Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  130. ^ "ABOUT – Henry Nwawuba". Retrieved 17 March 2022.[permanent dead link]
  131. ^ "Nigerians love comedy more than music —Comedian, Njoku a.k.a Senator". Tribune Online. 14 October 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  132. ^ "I won my first election at 31 –Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, Minister of State for Education". Punch Newspapers. 11 September 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  133. ^ "Dailytrust News, Sports and Business, Politics | Dailytrust". Daily Trust. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  134. ^ Udo, Mary (19 January 2017). "OFONAGORO, Sir, (Dr.) Walter Ibekwe". Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  135. ^ "Court grants former governor, Ikedi Ohakim, bail | Premium Times Nigeria". 11 November 2020. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  136. ^ Jannah, Chijioke (20 June 2019). "'Sack your Chief of Staff now' - Senator Okorocha tells Gov. Ihedioha". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  137. ^ Dera, Promise (24 May 2022). "I am under hostage – Okorocha speaks as EFCC operatives surround his Abuja residence". Tickernewsng.com. Retrieved 24 May 2022.
  138. ^ "Fabian Osuji's biography, fact, career, awards, net worth and life story - Wiki". Retrieved 17 March 2022.[permanent dead link]
  139. ^ "If my child isn't good at maths, I'd call for DNA test – Imo Rep, Ozurigbo". Punch Newspapers. 25 April 2021. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  140. ^ "Governor Achike Udenwa Archives | Premium Times Nigeria". Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  141. ^ "Nigerian Politician Hope Uzodinma Biography". 19 April 2024. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
  142. ^ Harneit-Seivers, Axel (1 July 2007). "Igbo History and Society: The essays of Adiele Afigbo, edited by Toyin FalolaMyth, History and Society: The collected works of Adiele Afigbo, edited by Toyin Falola". African Affairs. 106 (424): 529–531. doi:10.1093/afraf/adm029. ISSN 0001-9909.
  143. ^ Duruamaku, Victor (8 December 2021). "IMSU VC calls for increased budgetary allocation on education sector". Daily Champion. Retrieved 9 August 2024.
  144. ^ "Echeruo, Michael (Joseph Chukwudalu) | Encyclopedia.com". www.encyclopedia.com. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  145. ^ "Gospel singer Ada Ehi hits one million subscribers on YouTube - P.M. News". Retrieved 16 May 2023.
  146. ^ "BBNaija Prince's true confessions". 25 July 2020.
  147. ^ "Profile of Emmanuel Ibezim". staffprofile.unn.edu.ng. Retrieved 18 September 2024.
  148. ^ "Biography of Nenny B, Award Winning TV Presenter". Modern Ghana. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  149. ^ Korkus, Stella Dimoko. "Tragic Story Of Ada Priscilla Nzimiro Nigeria's 1st Female Igbo Doctor". Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  150. ^ Humphery (17 February 2022). "Odumeje Biography and Net Worth (the Indabosky)". Nyscinfo.com. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
  151. ^ "I have passion for good health, beauty and fashion - Okere". Vanguard News. 29 November 2013. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
[edit]