History, Origin, Culture and Tradition of Oji River Local Government Area in Enugu state

 
Positioned within Enugu State in Nigeria’s southeastern geopolitical region, Oji River Local Government Area (LGA) has its administrative center located in the town sharing the same name—Oji River. The LGA shares borders with sections of both Anambra and Abia States. It comprises multiple communities and villages, including Akugoeze, Ugwuoba, Achi, Inyi, Awlaw, Umuokpara, Obune, and Amankpunator.

The population of Oji River LGA is estimated to be around 160,513 individuals, most of whom belong to the Igbo ethnic nationality. The Igbo language serves as the primary means of communication, and Christianity is the predominant faith practiced by residents. The area is known for hosting vibrant cultural events such as the Isiogba festival. Prominent landmarks within the LGA include the historic Oji River Power Plant and the Nigerian Police College located in the town.

##Oji River Thermal Power Facility
The thermal energy plant in Oji River, located within Enugu State, is among the earlier satellite power generation stations developed in Southeastern Nigeria before the nation’s independence in 1960. This facility predates the establishment of major hydroelectric projects like the Kainji and Jebba dams.

Originally constructed with the capability of producing 10 megawatts of electricity, the station harnessed the river’s water flow and relied on coal transported from Enugu Coal Mines—about 50 kilometers away—using aerial cable systems. Following the conclusion of the Nigeria-Biafra conflict, the station's capacity was enhanced to 30MW, supplying power to surrounding areas, including parts of Udi and Achi.

On January 28, 1956, Queen Elizabeth II, during her state visit to Nigeria, visited both the Oji River power facility and a leprosy colony nearby. The plant ceased operations in 2004, and although the federal government has discussed reviving it, challenges such as low water levels and the closure of coal mines in Enugu have hindered its recommissioning.

##Historical Leprosy Centre
Oji River is home to one of the oldest functioning leprosy rehabilitation centers in southeastern Nigeria, close to the border with Anambra State. The center was originally established in the 1930s by British missionary organizations. After Governor Sir Arthur Richards' official tour of the Uzuakoli settlement in 1944, the colonial government began to take greater interest in leprosy eradication programs, including support for the Oji River center, which was run by the Church Missionary Society, part of the Anglican Communion. A Leprosy Control Center was later constructed in the area to further those efforts.

Christianity remains the dominant religion among the local population, with Catholicism and Anglicanism being the most widely practiced denominations, alongside a minority that still observes traditional beliefs.

##Security Training Institution
The town of Oji River also hosts one of the country’s few institutions dedicated to training police cadets—the Nigeria Police College, Oji River. This facility is among just four of its kind nationwide and also trains personnel from other security services, including immigration officers. The Nigeria Police Force, empowered by Section 194 of the 1979 Constitution, is charged with law enforcement across all states of the federation.

##Geographical Features
Covering a total landmass of approximately 403 square kilometers, Oji River LGA experiences an average annual temperature of 28°C. The notable Oji River, from which the region takes its name, flows through the area. Average wind speeds are estimated at 10 kilometers per hour. The area’s postal code is 401.

##Economic Activities
Commerce plays a central role in the local economy, with several bustling markets like the Oji River Urban Market serving as hubs for trade in goods and services. Agriculture is also a key livelihood activity; crops such as yam, cassava, cocoyam, and okra are widely cultivated. The region is rich in natural resources, including deposits of coal and clay, which further contribute to its economic profile.