Nnewi
Nnewi is the second largest city in
Anambra state in southeastern
Nigeria (in the region formerly known as Republic of
Biafra). Nnewi comprises four autonomous villages, Uruagu, Otolo, Umudim and Nnewi-Ichi.
Ichi, an autonomous neighbouring town, is also considered part of the expansive Nnewi city. Together Nnewi and its satellite towns have a population of about 2.1 million. (2005 est.)
Nnewi city hosts a prestigious center of excellence in medicine, the
Nnamdi Azikiwe University teaching hospital (NAUTH). Nnewi is probably the most industrialised city in Africa. Its industries include palm oil, cosmetics, motor and motorcycle spare parts, books and stationaries, textiles, weaving, and other industries. It is also the home of largest motorcycle spare parts market in Africa. Other markets include Nkwo Nnewi market and Nwafor market.
Nnewi is rich in human resources as well, with successful entrepreneurs, educators, lawyers, engineers, industrialists, medical doctors, trades men and women etc. Nnewi people can be found in every part of Africa and beyond. As business people, they found and nurture small-scale business into cooperate investments. Most business, commercial, and residential buildings throughout Nigeria and Africa are owned by
Igbo people with Nnewi people as a significant driving force.
Nnewi is the ancestral home of some prominent Nigerians like Chief
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, former military Governor of defunct Eastern Nigeria and President of defunct Republic Of Biafra; Chief
Nwafor Orizu, former nationalist and first republic senate president;
Chief M.C.K Ajuluchukwu, nationalist, anti-colonial fighter and first republic law-maker, and Chief
Augustine Ilodibe, CEO of
Ekenedilichukwu Industries.
