Aba South is a Local Government Area in Abia State, south-eastern Nigeria, encompassing the southern half of the commercial city of Aba. Located near coordinates 5.10° N, 7.36° E, the LGA covers 49 km² and recorded a 2006 census population of 427,421, projected to 622,400 by 2022. Settlements use postal codes 450103 (Ohazu district) and 450104 (Eziukwu/Aba Ukwu district).
Towns and Villages
Verified against INEC polling-unit records, INEC ward data and postal-district community lists. The LGA contains 18 named settlements:
| Settlement | Settlement | Settlement |
|---|---|---|
| Abaukwu | Akoli | Amanfuru |
| Ariaria | Asaeme | Asaokpuaja |
| Eziukwu | Ihieorji | Ndiegoro |
| Nnentu | Obuda | Ohabiam |
| Umuagbai | Umumba | Umunneise |
| Umuogele | Umuokpoji | Umuosi |
Geography
Aba South sits in the lowland tropical belt of southern Abia, bounded north by Aba North LGA, south by Ugwunagbo, east by Osisioma Ngwa and west by Obingwa. The Aba River bisects the LGA and gives the city its name. Terrain is gently undulating with red lateritic soils.
Demographics
The 2006 census recorded 427,421 residents in just 49 km², making Aba South one of the most densely populated LGAs in Nigeria. The 2022 projection puts the figure at 622,400. The Ngwa Igbo are the principal indigenous group; commercial migration has added significant Yoruba, Hausa and Niger-Delta minorities.
Economy and Local Life
Aba South is anchored by Ariaria International Market, one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa and the engine of Aba’s reputation as the ‘Japan of Africa’ for its shoemaking, leather goods and garment manufacturing clusters. Small-scale manufacturing, cosmetics, soap and pharmaceutical production drive the LGA’s informal economy.
Administrative Divisions
The LGA is divided into 12 wards: Aba River, Aba Town Hall, Asa, Ekeoha, Enyimba, Eziukwu, Gloucester, Igwebuike, Mosque, Ngwa, Ohazu I and Ohazu II. The council secretariat is in central Aba.
History
Aba developed as a Ngwa Igbo market town and rose to prominence after the 1915 arrival of the Eastern railway. The 1929 Aba Women’s Riot (Ogu Umunwanyi) against colonial taxation began in this area. Aba South LGA was carved out of the wider Aba LGA in 1991, when Aba North was created concurrently.
Getting There
Aba is served by the Enugu–Port Harcourt expressway running through the city centre. The nearest commercial airport is Port Harcourt International (PHC), 65 km south. The Eastern railway line passes through Aba with regular services to Port Harcourt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Aba South?
Aba South is a Local Government Area in Abia State, south-eastern Nigeria. It covers the southern half of Aba city.
What is the population of Aba South?
The 2006 census recorded 427,421 residents. The 2022 projection is 622,400, making it among the densest LGAs in Nigeria.
How big is Aba South?
Aba South LGA covers 49 square kilometres.
What is the postal code of Aba South?
Aba South uses postal codes 450103 (Ohazu district) and 450104 (Eziukwu/Aba Ukwu district).
What is Aba South famous for?
Aba South hosts Ariaria International Market, one of West Africa’s largest markets, and the manufacturing clusters that produce footwear, leather goods and garments that earned Aba the nickname ‘Japan of Africa’.
How do I get to Aba South?
The Enugu–Port Harcourt expressway runs through Aba. Port Harcourt International Airport is the nearest commercial airport, 65 km south. The Eastern railway also serves Aba.
See a wrong or missing town? Report a problem with this list