OWERRI

town, capital of Imo state, southern Nigeria, at the intersection of roads from Aba, Onitsha, Port Harcourt, and Umuahia. It is the chief trade centre (yams, cassava , taro, corn , and palm products) for a region of modified rainforest that also yields rubber for export. It is known for its handicraft centres. Although there is as yet little industrial development, one factory produces galvanized sheet iron. The town is the seat of the New (Federal) University of Imo, Alvan Ikoku College of Education, and several secondary schools. It is also served by a general hospital. The town is located in one of the most densely populated areas of Nigeria and is inhabited by the predominantly Christian Igbo people. Pop. (1983 est.) 35,010.