Serving as the heart of Igboland, Owerri is the lively capital of Nigeria’s Imo State. It was the last of three capitals of the Republic of Biafra and is often referred to as the “Entertainment Capital of Nigeria” due to its high concentration of casinos and production studios. Surrounded by rainforest, Owerri is known for its cultivation of cassava, yams and palm products.
Things to do in Owerri
Delve into the local history at the National Museum of Owerri, which was established in 1988 to showcase ethnographical objects from across the region. Learn about life for early settlers as you browse the homewares on display, then get up close to relics dating from the Nigerian Civil War. Sculptures and artefacts of Igbo heritage are showcased at the Mbari Cultural and Art Center.Mingle with locals in the retail stores of Owerri Mall, which is also home to a cinema complex and a food court where you'll find both local and global cuisine. Alternatively, coincide your visit with a home game of Heartland F.C. at Dan Anyiam Stadium, a multi-purpose facility with the capacity to seat 10,000 people.
If you want to escape the city, take a day trip to Oguta Lake, an emerald green finger lake formed by the damming of the Njaba River. In addition to being an important fishing, swimming and recreational destination, the lake is sacred to the local people and associated with the female goddess of Uhamiri.