Anambra State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is a major commercial hub known for its vibrant trade, manufacturing, and entrepreneurial spirit. As of 2026, the state's wealthiest towns, including Nnewi, Onitsha, and Awka, continue to attract investors and professionals, driving economic growth through industry, commerce, and education. According to the UN Global Poverty Index report, Anambra is the second richest state in Nigeria, trailing only Lagos.
Overview of Anambra State
Created on August 27, 1991, Anambra State shares borders with Kogi, Imo, Delta, and Enugu States. The state is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo people and comprises 179 towns, with Awka as its capital. The economy is driven by manufacturing, trade, education, and agriculture, making it a key player in Nigeria's economic landscape.
Top 15 Richest Towns in Anambra State
Here is the list of the wealthiest towns in Anambra State, ranked by economic strength, industrial growth, and commercial activity:
- Nnewi (Nnewi North)
- Onitsha (Onitsha North)
- Awka (Awka South)
- Ekwulobia (Aguata)
- Nnokwa (Idemili South)
- Ebenebe (Awka North)
- Alor (Idemili South)
- Nri (Anaocha)
- Adazi Ani (Anaocha)
- Ora Ukwu (Idemili North)
- Akwa Etiti (Idemili South)
- Enugu Ukwu (Njikoka)
- Agulu (Anaocha)
- Nanka (Orumba North)
- Neni (Anaocha)
15. Neni
Neni, the headquarters of Anaocha LGA, is an administrative centre with a balanced economy in agriculture, commerce, and education. The town comprises ten villages and was founded by the sons of Nnebo, according to oral tradition. Its growing population has spurred the expansion of markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.
14. Nanka
Nanka, in Orumba North LGA, is known for agriculture and local businesses. Legend says the town was founded by a warrior named Jee Nwuhu, who earned the name Nnaanka after a victorious battle. The town has seven villages and thrives on farming and trade.
13. Agulu
Agulu, in Anaocha LGA, is famous for Lake Agulu and tourism. The town also has a robust agricultural sector, producing food crops sold across the state. Notable figures from Agulu include former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi.
12. Enugu Ukwu
Enugu Ukwu, in Njikoka LGA, is a cultural and educational hub. The town is ruled by a king titled Eze Enugwu-Ukwu na Igwe Umunri. MTN sponsors the annual Mmonwu festival, a major traditional event. The town's economy is driven by commerce and professional services.
11. Akwa Etiti
Akwa Etiti, in Idemili South LGA, is an affluent town with seven villages. Historically known as Awka_Nkakwu, it was founded by Oke Diedo, who migrated due to conflicts with his brothers. The town's economy thrives on trade, real estate, and professional services.
10. Ora Ukwu
Oraukwu, in Idemili North LGA, was founded by a hunter from the Nri kingdom around 1583 AD. The town has a certified traditional ruler and a strong economy based on small businesses and professional services.
9. Adazi Ani
Adazi Ani, in Anaocha LGA, borders Neni and Adazi Enu. The town's ten villages are grouped into three zones: Umuru, Asano, and Ede. Its economy relies on farming and trading, with a focus on agricultural produce.
8. Nri
Nri, in Anaocha LGA, is considered the origin of the Igbo tribe. The Nri Kingdom is one of Nigeria's oldest monarchies. The town has six villages collectively called Ifite Nri. Its economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and commerce.
7. Alor
Alor, in Idemili South LGA, is surrounded by seven towns and has several rivers named after village gods. Historically, Alorites were textile traders; today, many are educated professionals. The town's economy is driven by trading and professional services.
6. Ebenebe
Ebenebe, in Awka North LGA, is a small town of about 45,000 people. It was once the capital of Ezu LGA. The town is a top producer of staple crops and animals, making it a significant agricultural and trading centre, only 25 km from Awka.
5. Nnokwa
Nnokwa, in Idemili South LGA, is one of the most populous towns in the area. It has ten villages grouped into three quarters for administration. The town's economy is based on agriculture and small-scale industries, including metalwork.
4. Ekwulobia
Ekwulobia, in Aguata LGA, is the fourth-largest urban town in Anambra State after Nnewi, Onitsha, and Awka. It is a commercial powerhouse with nine villages divided into two zones. The town attracts residents from across Nigeria due to its economic opportunities.
3. Awka
Awka, the state capital, is economically developed and generates billions of Naira annually. It is known for carving and metalwork industries and hosts several higher educational institutions. The town's economy is driven by government, education, and services.
2. Onitsha
Onitsha, on the eastern bank of the Niger River, is home to one of West Africa's largest markets. The town is a major wholesale and retail hub, attracting buyers from across Nigeria. It has nine villages and is predominantly Christian.
1. Nnewi
Nnewi, in Nnewi North LGA, is known as the 'Japan of Africa' due to its developed industrial area. It is a manufacturing and automobile hub, producing some of Nigeria's wealthiest individuals, including Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu and Cosmas Maduka. The town's economy is driven by industrial production and commerce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which town is the richest in Anambra State?
Nnewi is widely considered the richest town in Anambra State due to its industrial strength and the large number of successful entrepreneurs from the area.
What is the richest city in Nigeria?
Port Harcourt is often cited as Nigeria's richest city, with nearly 80% of assets and investments generating an annual income of over N750,000.
Where do rich people live in Anambra?
Wealthy individuals often reside in Nnewi, Awka, Onitsha, Awka-Etiti, and Ekwulobia, which offer thriving businesses, modern estates, and quality amenities.
Which is the richest town in Igbo land?
Nnewi is regarded as one of the richest towns in Igbo land, but Onitsha and Aba also play significant economic roles.
Which state is the richest between Enugu and Anambra?
Anambra is generally recognized as having a larger commercial sector, driven by trade, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship, compared to Enugu.
Is Nnewi the wealthiest town?
Yes, many consider Nnewi the wealthiest town due to its industrial strength and the success of its entrepreneurs.
In conclusion, the richest towns in Anambra State drive economic growth through various sectors. While Nnewi, Awka, and Onitsha lead, other towns are also expanding their economies, contributing to the state's overall prosperity.
