Owerri is the capital of Imo State in south-eastern Nigeria. It is known across the region as a place to relax and have fun, with many hotels, lounges, bars and event centres, and it is busy with visitors on weekends and holidays.
The city is also a centre of Igbo culture. The Mbari tradition of sculpted shrine houses comes from this part of Igboland, and Owerri hosts the state's major cultural events. Oguta Lake and the countryside of Imo State are within easy reach.
Top things to do in Owerri
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Enjoy Owerri nightlife
Owerri has a big reputation for nightlife. Lounges, bars, clubs and hotels across the city host live music, DJs and parties, especially from Thursday to Sunday and throughout December.
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See Mbari art
Mbari houses are open-sided shrines filled with brightly painted clay figures of deities, people and animals, built as offerings in Owerri Igbo tradition. A cultural centre in Owerri preserves mbari sculpture for visitors to see.
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Day trip to Oguta Lake
Oguta Lake, about 40 km west of Owerri, is the largest natural lake in Imo State. Local stories say its waters meet those of the Urashi River without mixing. Boat rides, lakeside walks and fresh fish make it a popular outing.
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Visit the city's monuments
Owerri's squares and roundabouts have public monuments and sculptures honouring Igbo culture and history, and Heroes Square is used for public ceremonies and events.
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Eat ofe owerri
Ofe owerri is a rich soup made with ugu and okazi leaves, cocoyam and plenty of meat and fish, usually eaten at celebrations. Owerri is also a good place for nkwobi, isi ewu and pepper soup.
Festivals and culture
Imo State celebrates Igbo heritage through Ahiajoku, an annual cultural festival and lecture usually held towards the end of the year. New yam festivals take place in communities across the state, and December brings concerts, carnivals, weddings and homecomings.
Food to try
Try ofe owerri, nkwobi, isi ewu, abacha (African salad), ofe oha with fufu, and pepper soup. Palm wine is easy to find around the city.
Best time to visit
December is the liveliest month, with homecomings and events. November to March is the dry season. Rain falls from about April to October.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and ride-hailing apps cover the city. Owerri has an airport at Obiangwu, and roads link it to Port Harcourt, Aba, Onitsha and Umuahia.
Questions about Owerri
What is Owerri known for?
Owerri is known for its nightlife, hotels and events, for Mbari art, and for ofe owerri. It is the capital of Imo State.
How far is Oguta Lake from Owerri?
About 40 km, usually under an hour by road.
How do I find events in Owerri?
Browse upcoming concerts, parties, comedy shows and free events in Owerri on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
