Awka

Awka is the capital of Anambra state found in the Southeast zone of Nigeria.  The population of Awka is estimated at 979,264 inhabitants with the majority being members of the Igbo tribe. Christianity and traditional religion are the most widely practiced faiths. Awka town comprises of two local government areas which are Awka South and Awka North. Popular districts in Awka include Ifite Awka, Umuawulu, Okpuno, Amawbia, Amansea, Ebenebe, Mgbakwu, Ugbene, Urum, Achalla, Zik Avenue, Dike street, Ogbunu street and Ugwugama street. Notable city landmarks include the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Diamond Pizza Restaurant, Trig point Hotel, Chow country, Bamboo Bar and Relaxation spot, Club gaga, Awka wonderland and Park, and the Eke Awka market.

Igbo and English languages are commonly spoken in the city while popular dishes served in Awka include the Ugba and Isi ewu and the Ofe onugbo. Tertiary institutions in Awka include the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, and the National Open University of Nigeria. Hospitals which can be found in Awka include the General Hospital, Beacon hospital, Divine hospital, Prime Hospital, Sefton hospital, Madonna hapital,  Crest hospital, El Dorado hospital and the NAU teaching hospital    

GEOGRAPHY

Awka consists of flat lands and several rivers and tributaries. The average annual temperature is 28 degrees centigrade while the annual estimated precipitation is 2900 mm.

The two major seasons in Awka are the rainy and dry seasons while humidity is estimated at 85 percent.  

ECONOMY

Trade is a common economic engagement in Awka with Agriculture and crude oil exploration also  contributing to the city’s economy. Also, the Eke Awka, Building materials market, Farmers market, and the Nkwo Amenyi markets are commercial hubs attracting a great number of sellers and buyers on a daily basis.

Crops grown in Awka include rice, yam, cassava, and breadfruit. Awka also plays host to several hotels, banks, relaxation spots as well as government owned institutions which all contributr to the economy of the area.

HISTORY

Awka is regarded as one of the oldest settlements in Igbo land and is famed for being the bedrock of the Nri Civilization which is the cradle of Igbo evolution.