Umuahia, Abia - Postal code - 440003

Description of Umuahia, Abia

Umuahia is the capital city of Abia State located in southeastern Nigeria. Umuahia is situated on the railroad that lies between Port Harcourt to its south, and Enugu city to its north. Umuahia has a total number of 359,230 people according to the 2006 Nigerian census. Umuahia city is natively surrounded by Igbo inhabitants.

Christianity is the main religious affiliation in Umuahia while the city offers several indigenous dishes which include the Ofe Okazi and Akpuruakpu mgbam. Notable landmarks in the city of Umuahia include the Government College, the Federal High court, the National war Museum, and lots more. There are several Industries that help improve its economy positively, such as a brewery and a palm-oil-processing plant.

History of Umuahia

Umuahia was officially made by the British colonial administration of Nigeria in the early 20th century. Umuahia was made the second (and soon became the longest-serving) capital, of the short-lived nation of the Republic of Biafra, on 28 September 1967 after the first capital, Enugu was captured by Nigerian troops. On April 22, 1969 Umuahia was occupied and almost taken by Nigerian troops but they were forced to retreat, due to a stiff offensive by Biafran Maj. E.A. Eutuk. After Umuahia's arrest on 24 December 1969, the last Biafran capital before its separation became Owerri.

Economy of Umuahia

The city of Umuahia has a vigorous Agricultural sector. Most of the city’s residents engage in subsistence agriculture with crops such as yam, cassava, oil palm, and citrus fruits that help improve its economy positively. Also, the city has a vibrant commercial sector with markets such as the Umuahia main market, New Timbershed market, Orie Ugba market, etc. Modern markets add to the economic life of the city. Umuahia is commemorated for being a railway and agricultural market center, which attracts traders and farmers from neighboring towns to sell their produce, such as yams, cassava, etc.