Afikpo

Afikpo is a city in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, situated near the border with Imo State and approximately 50 kilometres east of Abakiliki, the state capital. The town lies on rolling hills and is part of the Afikpo South Local Government Area, which includes several rural communities. Afikpo’s population is estimated at around 150,000 residents, with a diverse mix of ethnic groups, the majority of whom belong to the Igbo ethnicity. The community speaks the local Afikpo dialect of the Igbo language, while English is used for official and educational purposes.

Afikpo has a history that dates back to pre-colonial times, with evidence of settlement since the early 18th century. The town was an important center of trade in the 19th and early 20th centuries, linking the hinterland with larger marketplaces in the southeastern region of Nigeria. During the civil war (1967‑1970), Afikpo served as a strategic base for the Biafran military due to its elevation and relative remoteness from major road networks.

The economy of Afikpo is largely agrarian, with farming activities focused on yams, cassava, maize, and plantains. In addition to agriculture, there is growing interest in the exploitation of limestone deposits in the surrounding hills, which has spurred small-scale mining and stonecutting industries. The town hosts a weekly market that draws traders from neighbouring districts, offering a variety of fresh produce, textiles, and processed foods.

Culturally, Afikpo is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the New Yam Festival, which celebrate the end of harvest season and are marked by communal dancing, drumming, and the offering of yams to deities and ancestors. The town’s architecture includes traditional stone and thatch homes, as well as colonial-era stone structures that reflect its historical importance. Around 2019, community leaders launched initiatives to improve primary and secondary education, healthcare access, and road infrastructure, aiming to support sustainable development for the region's residents.