Ebonyi State: The Salt of the Nation, Strong in Roots and Rising in Strength

Introduction

Located in the southeastern region of Nigeria is a state many once overlooked but not anymore. Ebonyi State, fondly known as the Salt of the Nation, is rising boldly with its people’s hard work, rich culture, and untapped potential.

Created just in 1996, Ebonyi is one of Nigeria’s youngest states. But what it lacks in age, it makes up for in vision, resilience, and development. Known for its fertile lands, solid minerals, and signature Abakaliki Rice, Ebonyi is fast becoming a beacon of agricultural excellence and infrastructure growth in the region.

This article explores the journey of Ebonyi, its history, people, resources, economy, and transformation. Whether you’re an investor, student, or simply curious, Ebonyi’s story is one that inspires.

The Origin of Ebonyi State

Ebonyi State was officially created on October 1, 1996, under the administration of General Sani Abacha. It was carved out of parts of Abia and Enugu States, mainly from old divisions like Ogoja, Afikpo, and Abakaliki.

The creation of the state was a victory for local communities that had long felt marginalized. For decades, the people of present-day Ebonyi were underdeveloped and underserved despite their rich agricultural contribution.

When the state was formed, Abakaliki was chosen as the capital. Although the town was once considered backward, it would soon begin a journey of urban renewal, development, and recognition.

Location and Geography

Ebonyi is located in South East Nigeria and shares boundaries with:

• Benue State to the north
• Cross River State to the east
• Enugu State to the west
• Abia State to the south

The state covers an area of about 5,935 km², making it one of the smaller states in landmass. However, its land is very fertile, with plains, valleys, and several rivers such as the Ebonyi River, which flows across the land and supports both farming and fishing activities.

Ebonyi has a tropical climate, with a rainy season (April–October) and a dry season (November–March). This weather supports crop farming, especially rice, yam, and cassava.

Administrative Setup

The state has 13 Local Government Areas (LGAs):

• Abakaliki
• Afikpo North
• Afikpo South
• Ebonyi
• Ezza North
• Ezza South
• Ikwo
• Ishielu
• Ivo
• Ohaozara
• Ohaukwu
• Onicha
• Izzi

Each LGA plays a role in local administration, governance, and grassroots development.

Ebonyi is also part of Nigeria’s South East geopolitical zone, alongside Anambra, Imo, Abia, and Enugu.

The People and Their Culture

The people of Ebonyi are mainly Igbo, and they share a deep-rooted culture of hard work, communal living, and respect for elders.

Some of the prominent clans in Ebonyi include:

• Ezza
• Ikwo
• Izzi
• Ngbo
• Afikpo

Each of these sub-groups speaks a slightly different Igbo dialect, though Central Igbo is generally understood across the state.

Ebonyi people are known for being straightforward, industrious, and deeply attached to their land. Farming is not just an occupation here; it is a way of life.

They are mainly Christians and Traditional Worshippers. They also celebrate several cultural festivals, especially the New Yam Festival, which marks the end of the farming season. During such festivals, traditional music, masquerade displays, and dances are performed.

Natural Resources

Ebonyi is blessed with a range of natural resources, both solid and agricultural.

 Solid Minerals

• Salt (found in Uburu and Okposi)
• Limestone
• Lead
• Zinc
• Kaolin
• Granite
• Gypsum

The Uburu and Okposi salt lakes are among the oldest natural salt-producing areas in West Africa. Even before colonial times, women in these communities were known for extracting and trading salt using traditional methods.

 Agricultural Resources

• Rice
• Yam
• Cassava
• Palm oil
• Maize
• Vegetables
• Cocoa (in small quantities)

Abakaliki Rice: Ebonyi’s Agricultural Pride

One of the most famous products from Ebonyi is Abakaliki Rice. Known for its aroma and natural flavor, this rice is grown, milled, and packaged in the state especially in Ikwo, Ezza, and Abakaliki zones.

In fact, Ebonyi produces some of the largest quantities of local rice in Nigeria, with thousands of farmers, millers, and traders involved in the rice value chain. The state government, over the years, has invested in modern milling machines, irrigation projects, and farmer cooperatives.

Today, Abakaliki rice is sold across Nigeria and beyond, and it represents the state’s strength in agriculture-led development.

Bags of Abakiliki Rice

Education and Institutions

Ebonyi has made steady investments in education. From basic schools in rural communities to universities in urban areas, the state is working to build the minds of the future.

Major Higher Institutions in Ebonyi:

• Ebonyi State University (EBSU) – Abakaliki
• Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI) – Ikwo
• Federal College of Agriculture – Ishiagu
• Ebonyi State College of Education – Ikwo
• School of Health Sciences – Ezzamgbo

These institutions offer a wide range of courses, and they attract students from within and outside the state.

Ebonyi State University

Healthcare Services

Ebonyi’s health sector has improved significantly in the last 15 years. The government has built and upgraded hospitals and health centers, especially in rural areas.

The Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AE-FUTHA) is one of the leading hospitals in the South East. It serves as a referral center and training hospital for medical students from EBSU and AE-FUNAI.

There are also several primary healthcare centers across the LGAs, focusing on maternal care, immunization, and basic treatment.

Governance and Leadership

Since its creation, Ebonyi has been led by strong political figures who have helped shape the state’s progress.

Past Governors:

• Dr. Sam Egwu (1999–2007) – Pioneer elected governor; focused on education.

• Chief Martin Elechi (2007–2015) – Promoted unity and rural development.

• Engr. Dave Umahi (2015–2023) – Transformed infrastructure with roads, flyovers, and the airport.‍

• Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru (2023–Present) – Current governor; former Speaker of the State Assembly.

Under these leaders, Ebonyi has evolved from a struggling young state to one with a clear development vision.

Infrastructure: From Forgotten Roads to Model State

One of Ebonyi’s biggest success stories is its rapid transformation in infrastructure. In less than two decades, the state went from having some of the worst roads in the region to building some of the most modern concrete road networks in Nigeria.

During the administration of Governor Dave Umahi, the state focused heavily on:

• Concrete dual carriage roads across major cities and towns

• Over 20 flyovers and bridges in Abakaliki, Afikpo, and boundary towns

• Road expansion to rural farming communities to ease movement of produce

In fact, Umahi became widely known as the “Concrete Governor” because of his decision to build solid, long-lasting concrete roads instead of the usual asphalt roads.

Today, people from neighboring states like Enugu, Abia, Cross River, and Benue often admire how Ebonyi achieved such road quality in a short time.

Ebonyi International Airport

In 2023, Ebonyi State joined the list of Nigerian states with an international airport. The Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, located in Onueke, was completed and commissioned under Governor Umahi’s administration.

The airport was built to:

• Improve air connectivity for Ebonyi and neighboring states

• Promote tourism and agro-exports

• Attract investors and businesses to the region

It currently handles domestic flights, but plans are in place to upgrade it for international operations. With its clean runways and impressive terminal building, the airport has become a symbol of Ebonyi’s ambition and growth.

Ebonyi International airport 

Urban Renewal and Beautification

Abakaliki, the state capital, has undergone a quiet revolution. What used to be seen as a dusty and outdated town is now fast becoming a modern, clean, and organized city.

Some of the upgrades include:

• Streetlights across major roads

• Landscaped gardens and roundabouts

• Drainage systems and paved walkways

• Government buildings with clean architecture

New commercial complexes, hotels, banks, and malls are springing up, making Abakaliki a more attractive destination for events and conferences.

Tourism

While Ebonyi is not yet a popular tourist destination like Lagos or Calabar, the state is home to many natural and cultural attractions that are still waiting to be fully explored.

 Notable Tourist Sites:

• Uburu and Okposi Salt Lakes – Historic salt-producing lakes with rich stories from pre-colonial trade

Uburu Salt Lake

Okposi salt lake

• Amanchor Cave (Afikpo South) – Mysterious caves believed to have spiritual significance

• Unwana Beach (Afikpo North) – A peaceful riverside area perfect for relaxation and cultural festivals

• Ndibe Sand Beach

• Amasiri Waterfalls

• Ohankwu Lake in Ezza South

The state government has expressed interest in developing eco-tourism, especially in collaboration with private investors. However, funding and promotion remain challenges.

Diversifying the Economy Beyond Farming

While farming remains the heart of Ebonyi’s economy, efforts are ongoing to diversify into other sectors, including:

• Agro-processing

The government is encouraging value addition to crops like rice, cassava, and palm oil. Several rice mills and garri processing centers now operate across LGAs.

•  ICT and Digital Economy

Young people in the state are beginning to explore tech through hubs, training, and access to affordable data. There are also plans to expand ICT infrastructure for learning and remote jobs.

•  Industrial Zones

An industrial cluster project was initiated to create hubs for manufacturing, packaging, and light assembly of goods. This aims to reduce dependence on external markets.

Support for Small Businesses

Ebonyi State has introduced programs to support local entrepreneurs, traders, and artisans, such as:

• Low-interest loans and grants for women and youth

• Skill acquisition training (tailoring, welding, carpentry, ICT)

• Market expansion projects to improve trade centers

The government has also supported cooperative groups in farming communities, allowing them to get fertilizers, inputs, and farm machinery more easily.

Challenges Still Facing Ebonyi

Despite these achievements, Ebonyi still faces several serious problems:

• Poverty and Unemployment

Over 75% of residents live below the poverty line, especially in rural areas. Many rely on subsistence farming and struggle with limited income.

•  Limited Industrialization

The state still lacks major industries, and most of its raw materials (like salt and limestone) are not fully processed within the state.

•  Health and Education Gaps

Though improvements have been made, rural health centers still suffer from lack of drugs, staff, and equipment. Many schools in remote villages need teachers and basic facilities.

•  Brain Drain and Youth Migration

Many young people leave the state in search of greener pastures in cities like Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, due to lack of job opportunities.

Strength in Culture and Community

One of Ebonyi’s greatest assets is its people. They are united, proud, and deeply connected to their roots. Communities often come together to build schools, roads, and town halls without waiting for government support.

The spirit of Umunna (brotherhood) remains strong. Family meetings, village unions, and age grades play an active role in governance, dispute resolution, and celebrations.

Ebonyi women, especially in farming communities, are also playing larger roles in trade, politics, and education.

The Future of Ebonyi

Ebonyi’s journey is far from over. It is still a work in progress. But it’s clear that the state has the tools to become a true force in agriculture, tourism, trade, and digital enterprise.

To fully reach its potential, Ebonyi must:

• Encourage more private sector participation

• Improve rural healthcare and education

• Expand access to technology and innovation

• Preserve and promote its cultural heritage

• Invest in the youth and small businesses

Conclusion

Ebonyi State may have been born from neglect, but it is no longer a forgotten corner of Nigeria. From rice fields to concrete flyovers, from salt lakes to ICT hubs, this state is writing its own success story, step by step.

Its people are not just farmers, they are dreamers, builders, and believers.

To those watching from outside: Ebonyi is open for business, open to tourism, and open to the world.

To those born of its soil: The time to shine has come not by waiting, but by building.

Ebonyi may be the Salt of the Nation, but it is also the soul of resilience.

Read about:The Economy of Southeastern Nigeria: Trade, Industry, Agriculture, and Growth Opportunitie