History, Origin, Culture and Traditions of Nawgu Town in Anambra state

 
Nawgu has a rich history, as the current settlement was not the original home of our ancestors. Nawgu shares a close connection with Awka, Nibo, Nise, and Ugwuoba. These communities were once part of the larger Awka settlement, and at that time, areas like Okpuno and other satellite villages of Awka were not yet established, as Nawgu occupied those regions. However, over two centuries ago, a civil war displaced the community from Awka, scattering its people far and wide. Communities like Olo in Enugu State, Amaetiti, Umudunu, Abagana, Agulu, and others were originally part of Nawgu. Some even journeyed to places like Awkuzu and Ukwulu before eventually settling in the present location. In the 1970s, some of our people who had settled in Agulu returned home, and we graciously offered them land, recognizing them as our kin. Nawgu once had twelve villages, but today it is divided into six quarters. While not overly populated, it is still a sizable town. We share boundaries with Urum, Isuaniocha, Ukwulu, and Enugu Agidi.

##Cultural Practices and Traditions
Like many other Igbo communities, we have several cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. Our approach to marriage is similar to that of other Igbo towns, and we once had numerous festivals. However, with modernization, some of these traditions have faded over time. Our main festival is the Onwa Asato, which takes place in December. This event is marked by vibrant masquerade performances and dances that unite the entire community, and even those in the diaspora often return home to celebrate. It serves as a celebration of the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.

Another major festival we once celebrated was the Nkwa festival, a grand feast held before the planting season, but this tradition has gradually died out. We still observe the Ifejioku, now known as Ili Ji or the New Yam Festival. In Dunukofia Local Government Area, we celebrate it on the same day. The Ofala festival, a significant event led by the Igwe, is also still celebrated. In our community, we hold the Ofala every three years, and I had the honor of hosting it once after my coronation. The next Ofala is scheduled for 2020, and we begin preparations early as it involves a lot of planning and activities. Additionally, we have cultural dances, including performances by women’s troupes, all of which contribute to the rich cultural heritage of our community.