Tomorrow is Here
About Enugu State
Enugu State is a state located in the South East geo-political zone of Nigeria. It is one of the 36 states in the country and has its capital in Enugu, which is also the largest city in the state. Enugu State is known as the “Coal City State” due to its historical significance in coal mining.
Enugu State shares borders with several other states in Nigeria. It is bordered by Abia and Imo states to the south, Ebonyi state to the east, Benue state to the north-east, Kogi state to the north-west, and Anambra state to the west. This strategic location allows for easy access and connectivity to other parts of the country.
The state covers an area of approximately 7,161 square kilometers (2,765 square miles) and is ranked 29th in terms of land area among the 36 states. Enugu State has a diverse topography, characterized by hills, valleys, and plateaus, which contribute to its scenic beauty.
Enugu State has a rich cultural heritage and is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group, who are known for their vibrant traditions and customs. The state is home to various cultural festivals, such as the New Yam Festival (Iwa Ji) and the Mmanwu Festival, which showcase the unique cultural practices of the Igbo people.
The state has a favorable climate throughout the year, with moderate temperatures. The hottest month is usually February, while the lowest temperatures are experienced in November/December. Enugu State also experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, with the highest rainfall occurring during the rainy season.
Enugu State has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economic development. Historically, coal mining played a vital role in the state’s economy, but the focus has shifted to other sectors such as commerce, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The state is home to various industries, including textile, pharmaceutical, and food processing.
In terms of infrastructure, Enugu State has a well-developed road network that connects it to other parts of Nigeria. The Akanu Ibiam International Airport serves as a major gateway for air travel in the state.
Overall, Enugu State offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, economic opportunities, and a hospitable environment for residents and visitors alike.
Pre-History
Prehistoric findings provide insights into the early inhabitants of present-day Enugu State, indicating that their earliest settlements date back to 6,000 BC. Archaeological discoveries, such as pottery works found in the Okigwe-Nsukka axis, suggest the existence of a stone civilization in the region.
Excavations led by Thurstan Shaw from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1978 unveiled a rock quarry in Ibagwa, located in the present-day Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State. This quarry served as a source of tools and pottery for the ancient civilization.
During this period, the Wawa area of Igboland, including Enugu State, did not have many centralized chiefdoms or kingdoms. Instead, the people were organized into clans, lineages, and village affiliations. Decision-making within these clans was highly democratic, allowing every adult to contribute to discussions. However, the final decision usually rested with the eldest member of the clan, and their verdict held significant weight. Enugu
The Coal City State
Enugu State, known as the Coal-City State or Wawa State, was established through a military decree on August 27, 1991. General Ibrahim Babangida, the then military Head of State, created the state in response to years of demands and grievances from the Wawa leaders and people who felt unjustly treated and marginalized. However, the evolution of Enugu State and the Wawa people didn’t end there, as Ebonyi State was later carved out of Enugu in 1996. Enugu State derives its name from the capital city, Enugu, which gained prominence as the first location for commercial coal mining in Nigeria in 1909. Over the years, it served as the administrative headquarters for the Southern and Eastern Provinces (1929), Eastern Region (1954-1967), the defunct State of Biafra during the Nigeria civil war (1967-1970), East Central State (1970-1976), and old Anambra State (1976-1991). The state’s economy is primarily driven by the public sector, with the State Government being the largest employer. The current administration, led by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, aims to bring about changes in this regard.
Enugu State has made significant progress, garnering numerous international recognitions and awards. Notably, it received the Most Outstanding Community Policing Command in West Africa award for 2014 from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This recognition was a result of its well-structured Neighborhood Watch Programme and effective collaboration with security agencies to ensure efficient community policing.
Furthermore, in 2015, the Rockefeller Foundation named Enugu State the 65th Most Resilient City in the world, acknowledging its ability to withstand and recover from various challenges.
