Owerri, Regional trade center in southeastern Nigeria
Owerri is the capital of Imo State and sits between the Otamiri River and the Nworie River in southeastern Nigeria. The city spreads across the landscape with markets, government offices, and neighborhoods that form its core activity zones.
The city was founded in the 14th century by Ekwem Oha and later became the final capital of the Republic of Biafra during the 1969 Nigerian Civil War. This history remains a defining part of the region's identity and memory.
The Oru Owere festival runs each year from June through August, when residents settle community matters and share roasted yam with oil bean. This gathering reflects how celebration and conflict resolution remain woven into daily life here.
Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport connects the city to major Nigerian centers, while road routes reach Port Harcourt, Onitsha, and Aba. Moving around on foot or by local transport works well for getting to different neighborhoods and market areas.
The city contains five ancestral villages collectively called Owerri Nchi Ise: Umuororonjo, Amawom, Umuonyeche, Umuodu, and Umuoyima. These traditional settlements remain important reference points in how locals understand their place.
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