Complete List Of Local Government Areas In Abia State And Their Headquarters
Abia State, located in the southeastern region of Nigeria, is known for its rich cultural heritage, commercial activities, and strong industrial base. Created on August 27, 1991, from the old Imo State, Abia has grown into an economic powerhouse, particularly in trade and manufacturing. Aba, one of its major cities, is often referred to as the "Japan of Africa" due to its large industrial markets.
The state is made up of 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs), each with a designated headquarters that serves as the administrative center. In this blog, we will explore all 17 LGAs, their headquarters, and interesting facts about each one.
List of Local Government Areas in Abia State and Their Headquarters
1. Aba North – Eziama
Aba North is one of the two LGAs that make up the famous Aba city. The headquarters is located in Eziama. This LGA is an important commercial and industrial hub, with many businesses thriving in the area. It is home to part of the Ariaria International Market, one of the largest markets in West Africa.
2. Aba South – Aba
Aba South is the heart of Aba city, with its headquarters in Aba Town. This LGA is the commercial nerve center of Abia State, known for its booming trade, shoe-making, textile industries, and metal fabrication. The city attracts traders and manufacturers from across Nigeria and neighboring countries.
3. Arochukwu – Arochukwu
Arochukwu LGA, with its headquarters in Arochukwu Town, is one of the most historically significant areas in Abia State. It was home to the powerful Aro Confederacy, which played a major role in the pre-colonial slave trade. The famous Arochukwu Long Juju Shrine, an important historical and spiritual site, is located here.
4. Bende – Bende
Bende LGA has its headquarters in Bende Town. It is one of the largest LGAs in Abia State and is known for its rich agricultural resources. Many top politicians and military officers from Abia hail from this region, including Nigeria’s former military leader, General Aguiyi-Ironsi.
5. Ikwuano – Isiala Oboro
Ikwuano LGA, with headquarters in Isiala Oboro, is known for its agricultural activities. The area is one of the leading producers of cassava, yam, and palm produce in the state. It is also home to Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, a leading agricultural university in Nigeria.
6. Isiala Ngwa North – Okpuala Ngwa
Isiala Ngwa North LGA has its headquarters in Okpuala Ngwa. This LGA is part of the Ngwa ethnic group and is known for its fertile farmlands and commercial activities. It is a key area for palm oil production and trading.
7. Isiala Ngwa South – Omoba
The headquarters of Isiala Ngwa South LGA is located in Omoba. Like its northern counterpart, this LGA is known for agriculture and trade. It also has a growing real estate market due to its proximity to Aba.
8. Isuikwuato – Isuikwuato
Isuikwuato LGA, with its headquarters in Isuikwuato Town, is known as the "land of generals" because it has produced many high-ranking military officers. The area is also famous for its hilly terrain and beautiful landscapes.
9. Obi Ngwa – Mgboko
Obi Ngwa LGA has its headquarters in Mgboko. This LGA is one of the key agricultural and trading centers in Abia. It is located close to Aba and benefits from the commercial activities of the city.
10. Ohafia – Ohafia
Ohafia LGA, with its headquarters in Ohafia Town, is known for its warrior history. The Ohafia people were famous for their military strength in pre-colonial times. The town is also home to many retired military personnel and has a strong cultural heritage.
11. Osisioma Ngwa – Osisioma
Osisioma Ngwa LGA has its headquarters in Osisioma. It is an industrial hub, with many manufacturing companies, warehouses, and fuel depots located there. The area also serves as a gateway into Aba city.
12. Ugwunagbo – Ihie
Ugwunagbo LGA has its headquarters in Ihie. This LGA is known for its rural settlements, but it is gradually developing due to its proximity to Aba. Many small-scale businesses and farms operate in the area.
13. Ukwa East – Akwete
The headquarters of Ukwa East LGA is in Akwete, a town famous for its unique hand-woven textiles known as Akwete Cloth. The LGA is also rich in oil and gas, making it an important economic zone.
14. Ukwa West – Oke Ikpe
Ukwa West LGA, with its headquarters in Oke Ikpe, is one of the major oil-producing areas in Abia State. The area is home to many multinational oil companies operating in Nigeria.
15. Umuahia North – Umuahia
Umuahia North LGA has its headquarters in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State. This LGA serves as the political and administrative center of the state, hosting government offices, institutions, and markets.
16. Umuahia South – Apumiri
Umuahia South LGA has its headquarters in Apumiri. This LGA is known for its peaceful communities and developing urban settlements. It is also home to several educational institutions.
17. Umunneochi – Nkwoagu Isuochi
Umunneochi LGA, with its headquarters in Nkwoagu Isuochi, is located in the northern part of Abia State. It shares a boundary with Enugu and Imo States. The area is known for its rich natural resources, including clay and granite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many LGAs are in Abia State?
Abia State has 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
2. What is the capital of Abia State?
The capital of Abia State is Umuahia.
3. Which LGA is the most developed in Abia State?
Aba South LGA is the most developed due to its strong commercial and industrial activities.
4. What is the largest LGA in Abia State?
Bende LGA is the largest in terms of land area.
5. What is the main occupation of people in Abia State?
The people of Abia State are mainly involved in trade, manufacturing, agriculture, and oil exploration.
6. What is Aba famous for?
Aba is famous for its Ariaria International Market, shoe-making industry, textile production, and metal fabrication.
7. Is Abia State safe for visitors?
Yes, Abia State is generally safe, but like any other place, visitors should take normal security precautions.
Conclusion
Abia State is a diverse and economically significant state in Nigeria. Each of its 17 LGAs has unique contributions to the state’s development. Whether in commerce, agriculture, or oil production, Abia continues to be a key player in Nigeria’s economy.
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