Anambra, known as ‘the light of the nation,’ is a remarkable state in Nigeria. If you’re crossing the River Niger Bridge heading east, Anambra is the first state you’ll encounter before reaching other southeastern states.

Anambra State was created on August 27, 1991, along with several other states in Nigeria. It shares borders with five states: Delta, Imo, Enugu, Kogi and Rivers.

While Awka is the capital city, the largest city is Onitsha, followed by Nnewi, which is renowned as a commercial and industrial hub in West Africa. The name ‘Anambra’ is derived from the Omambala River, which flows through the state.

The state’s topography and vegetation support agriculture. As of 2022, its population is about 6.6 million. The indigenes speak the Igbo dialect and are predominantly Christian. Farming thrives in rural areas, while cities like Onitsha, Nnewi, and Awka have many business people.

IGBO-UKWU ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES

The Igbo-Ukwu Archaeological Sites are one of the most of history! Discovered in the 1930s, these sites date back to the 9th century and showcase the advanced civilization of the Igbo people

What sets Igbo-Ukwu apart is the sheer number of artefacts found in one location. You can almost hear the whispers of history as you walk through the site. Igbo Ukwu Museum is located in Igbo Ukwu, a historic town that continues to draw visitors to see its bronze treasures and is renowned for its amazing metal crafts. The bronzes were discovered in 1938 and afterwards dug up by Thurstan Shaw (an English archaeologist). They have significant historical value and have been dated to the ninth century.

OGBUNIKE CAVE

This natural wonder is not just a cave; it’s a series of interconnected tunnels and chambers that will leave you in awe. There are also some streams and a waterfall in and around the cave.

The Ogbunike Caves are the largest in West Africa and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They hold great cultural significance for the local community, serving as a site for tradition and rituals.

The cave holds significant cultural value for the local community, as it has been a place of refuge and worship for centuries.

OGBA UKWU CAVES AND WATERFALL

This stunning location features beautiful caves, considered the largest cave in West Africa, and a waterfall, creating a magical atmosphere. Hidden away from the busy routes that crisscross Anambra, the Ogbaukwu Caves and Waterfalls are located in Owerre Ezeukala community that borders Abia, Enugu and Imo. Approximately 75 kilometres east of Onitsha, the cave is considered the largest cave in West Africa, which will take upwards to two hours to explore.

It forms a deep and complex rock formation with roomy compartments large enough to take in an entire village. At the centre of Ogba Ukwu, is one large area said to have been the living room of the ‘god’ of Owerre-Ezukala. There is one particular compartment, accessed by the aid of stone steps where an old elephant’s foot still stands, long dead and dry.