Owerri: The Heartbeat of Eastern Nigeria

• HelloNdewo
  [nde-wo]
• GoodbyeKachifo
  [ka-chi-fo]
• YesEe
  [ee]
• NoMba
  [m-ba]
• Please/You're welcomeBiko
  [bi-ko]
• Thank youDaalu
  [daa-lu]
• Excuse me/SorryKedu
  [ke-du]
• How are you?Kedu ka i mere?
  [ke-du ka i me-re]
• Fine. And you?Olee. Odi ka i mere?
  [o-lee. o-di ka i me-re]
• Do you speak English?Onye nwere ike ikwusi bekee?
  [on-ye nwe-re i-ke i-kwu-si be-ke-e]
• I don't understandAcho m na-agba
  [a-cho m na-a-gba]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA ga m akwado ihe mere n'akwukwo, biko
  [a ga m a-kwa-do i-he me-re n-a-kwu-kwo, bi-ko]
• I don't eat meatA puo akwukwo
  [a pu-o a-kwu-kwo]
• Cheers!Ndeewo!
  [nde-wo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseA ga m gbuo, biko
  [a ga m gbuo, bi-ko]

• Help!Ndu!
  [ndu]
• Go away!Bia kwanu!
  [bi-a kwa-nu]
• Call the Police!Kpako ndi ocha!
  [kpa-ko ndi o-cha]
• Call a doctor!Kpako onye isi ocha!
  [kpa-ko on-ye i-si o-cha]
• I'm lostA di m ari
  [a di m a-ri]
• I'm illA dighi ike
  [a di-ghi i-ke]

• I'd like to buy...A ga m gbuo...
  [a ga m gbuo...]
• I'm just lookingA na enye ihe m na-akpo
  [a na en-ye i-he m na-ak-po]
• How much is it?Ozi gini onye?
  [o-zi gi-ni on-ye]
• That's too expensiveOzi ntoo gini
  [o-zi n-too gi-ni]
• Can you lower the price?Onye nwere ike gbuo ozi?
  [on-ye nwe-re i-ke gbuo o-zi]

• What time is it?Kedu oge bu?
  [ke-du o-ge bu]
• It's one o'clockOge di otu
  [o-ge di o-tu]
• Half past (10)Oge di iri na otu
  [o-ge di i-ri na o-tu]
• MorningUtutu
  [u-tu-tu]
• AfternoonEhihie
  [e-hi-hie]
• EveningOsa
  [o-sa]
• YesterdayEchi
  [e-chi]
• TodayOnwa
  [on-wa]
• TomorrowOchia
  [o-chi-a]
• 1Otu
  [o-tu]
• 2Abuo
  [a-buo]
• 3Ato
  [a-to]
• 4Ano
  [a-no]
• 5Ise
  [i-se]
• 6Isii
  [i-sii]
• 7Asaa
  [a-saa]
• 8Asato
  [a-sa-to]
• 9Itoolu
  [i-to-o-lu]
• 10Iri
  [i-ri]

• Where's a/the...?Ebee ka...
  [e-bee ka...]
• What's the address?Kedu adiresi bu?
  [ke-du a-di-re-si bu]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Onye nwere ike nye m ihe mere (na ozi)?
  [on-ye nwe-re i-ke nye m i-he me-re (na o-zi)]
• When's the next (bus)?Olee ihe ozo kpomkpu?
  [o-lee i-he o-zo k-pom-kpu]
• A ticket (to ....)Echi ebe...
  [e-chi e-be...]

Owerri, the capital city of Imo State in southeastern Nigeria, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Igbo people, who are known for their complex societal structures and vibrant cultures. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region has been settled since ancient times, with early communities engaged in farming, trade, and craftsmanship.

During the late 19th century, Owerri became a focal point for British colonial administration. The city was officially established as a colonial administrative center in 1901. This period saw the construction of key infrastructures such as roads, schools, and hospitals, which laid the foundation for modern Owerri. The introduction of Christianity also had a significant impact, with several mission schools and churches being established.

The Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War (1967-1970), had a profound impact on Owerri. The city was a strategic location and witnessed several military engagements. It served as one of the last strongholds of the Biafran forces before the eventual surrender. The war caused significant devastation, but the resilience and spirit of the people of Owerri played a crucial role in the city's recovery and rebuilding efforts post-war.

Following the end of the Nigerian Civil War, Owerri underwent extensive reconstruction. Efforts were made to rebuild the city's infrastructure and revitalize its economy. This period saw the establishment of educational institutions like the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) and the development of new residential and commercial areas. The city gradually transformed into a hub of education, commerce, and culture.

Owerri is a city deeply rooted in Igbo culture and traditions. The city hosts several annual festivals and cultural events that attract visitors from far and wide. One of the most notable is the 'Iri Ji' (New Yam Festival), which celebrates the harvest and is marked by elaborate ceremonies, traditional dances, and feasting. The 'Oru Owerri' festival is another significant event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Owerri people, featuring masquerades, music, and traditional rites.

Today, Owerri is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. The city is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Despite its rapid urbanization, Owerri has managed to preserve its cultural identity and historical landmarks, such as the Mbari Cultural and Art Center, which stands as a testament to the city's artistic heritage. Modern Owerri continues to thrive as a center for education, commerce, and tourism.

Owerri is accessible via Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, which is located approximately 23 kilometers from the city center. The airport serves both domestic and limited international flights. From major Nigerian cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, you can catch a direct flight to Owerri. Alternatively, you can arrive by road; Owerri is well-connected by major highways, making it accessible by bus or private vehicle from neighboring cities.

Within Owerri, transportation options include taxis, buses, and motorcycle taxis (locally known as 'okada'). Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked via ride-hailing apps. Buses and minibuses operate on fixed routes and are a cost-effective way to get around, though they can be crowded. Motorcycle taxis are a quick way to navigate traffic but may not be the safest option. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

The official currency in Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Owerri, though it is wise to withdraw enough cash in one go to avoid multiple transaction fees.

Owerri is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Areas like Douglas Road and Wetheral Road are bustling with activity but may have higher instances of petty crime such as pickpocketing. Always use trusted transportation options and avoid displaying wealth.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for general emergency services. The city has several hospitals and medical facilities such as the Federal Medical Center Owerri. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available and well-stocked.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect religious customs and practices. Remove your shoes before entering religious buildings. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using public transport. Avoid loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It is polite to greet elders first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and drinks. Accept food and drink graciously when offered. Don’t eat or drink in public during religious fasting periods.

To experience Owerri like a local, visit the Eke Ukwu Owerri Market for a vibrant shopping experience. Enjoy local dishes such as 'ofe owerri' (Owerri soup) at traditional restaurants. Engage with locals; they are often warm and welcoming. Don't miss the Mbari Cultural and Art Center to learn about local art and history. For nightlife, check out the various lounges and bars along Wetheral Road.