Arochukwu, Abia State:
Welcome to Arochukwu, the pride of Abia State and the home of the bravest warriors in Igbo land. Nestled in southeastern Nigeria, Arochukwu stands as the third-largest town in Abia State, following Aba and Umuahia.
Situated approximately 120km from Umuahia, Arochukwu comprises 19 vibrant villages and shares its borders with Ohafia, Akwa-Ibom State. Renowned for its abundance of staple foods and artifacts, the city has become a cultural gem and a noteworthy tourist attraction within Abia State.
The historical significance of the Aro-Okigbo people is evident in Igbo and Nigerian history, with Aro settlers found in every corner of the Southeast and beyond. The diaspora, driven by the slave era, led the Aro people to migrate across Nigeria, carrying their rich culture wherever they went. From Aro Okporoenyi to Aro Ndizuogu, Aro Ikwere to Aro Yoruba, various Aro communities established themselves in different parts of the country.
Here are some of Aro settlement:
Aro Ajatakiri: In Ikwuano, Umuahia, Abia State
Aro Achara: In Ama-asa, Isiala Ngwa, Abia State.
Aro Umu Nkpe: In Isiala Ngwa, Abia State.
Aro Nbawsi: In Isiala Ngwa, Abia State.
Aro Omoba: In Isiala Ngwa, Abia State.
Aro Okporoenyi: In Ikwuano area of Abia State.
Aro Iyama: In Ikwuano, area of Abia State.
Aro Amuru: In Ikwuano, area of Abia State.
Aro Ndizuogu: Ideato area of Imo State (The biggest of all the settlements).
Aro Ndiowu Anambra State
Aro Ndi Ikerionwu: In Anambra State.
Aro Ajalli: In Anambra State.
Aro Nzerem: In Ebonyi State.
Aro Atta Ikeduru Owerri area Imo State
Aro Amokwe: In Udi area of Enugu State.
Aro Isuochi: In Abia State.
Aro Isiokpo/Igwurita Ikwerre area in Rivers State.
Aro Abagana: In Anambra State.
Aro Oru: In Imo State.
Aro Nempi: In Imo State
Aro Ngwa: In Abia State.
Aro Ezeagu: In Enugu State.
Aro Achi: In Enugu State.
Aro Oboro Ite
Aro Kalabari: In Rivers State.
Aro Opobo: In Rivers State.
Aro mmiri ukwu Uturu: In Abia State
Aro Anwu Anwu: Eziukwu Durunnihe in Umudurunna ABBA Nwangele LGA Imo State
Aro Okija (Ndi Ezennia Awa Okoro Orji): Anambra State
Aro Egbuoma in [oguta] area of Imo
Despite this cultural diaspora, Arochukwu faces a challenge to preserve its unique identity. The Aro kingdom’s rich tapestry of 30 traditional songs and dance steps is at risk of fading away, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation.
Arochukwu has been the birthplace of notable people like the esteemed educationalist Alvan Ikoku (1900-1971) and the football sensation Nwankwo Kanu, who graced the pitches of Ajax and Arsenal in European football leagues.
As the Christmas season approaches, if you’re planning to explore the beauty of Igboland, make sure to include Arochukwu among your destinations. Experience the rich culture, history, and warm hospitality of this vibrant town.
