PATHS2: Enugu State
Enugu which means (top of the hill), is one of the 5 states in the South-Eastern region of Nigeria. Although, Enugu State was created out of Anambra State in the year 1991, it had attained prominence as the administrative centre of former Eastern Region of Nigeria.
The remnant of that status still remains as the Enugu remains a melting pot for the South- East zone. It shares its boundaries with Anambra State to the west, Ebonyi State to the east, Kogi State to the north, and Abia State to the south. Enugu state has a population of 3.72 million occupying a surface area of approximately 8,000 sq km.
As the name implies, Enugu is hilly with undulating grassy fields, and light forestation. The hills provided the coal mines for which it is known as the "Coal-City". The Relics of the coal mines and the miners quarters can still be seen today.
The indigenes of the state are Ibos, who speak Igbo Language, one of the prominent languages in Nigeria. There is also heavy migration of people from other parts of Nigeria, who settle and live in Enugu State.
The major industry in Enugu State is Education; hence the people are mostly civil servants. Subsistence farming and trading is also done.
Governance Structure
Enugu State is governed by an elected Governor for a term of four years, and can be re-elected to a second four years only. The State is divided into 3 political zones and 17 local Governments, which are legally constituted and headed by a Local Government Chairman, who is also elected. The term of office for an LGA Chairman is three years, and can also be elected to a second three years only.
Culture
Enugu State is culturally rich and every town and village has cultural celebrations at different times of the year. On the State level, the Mmawu (Masqurade), and the Iri-ji (Eating of New Yam) festivals stand out. These are colorful festivals with various parades and dances, which start from the village level and end with a big show at the state level.
Other cultural shows include:
- The marriage ceremonies
- Coming of age/age grade, for young men, and Umu-ada (daughters of the family) ceremonies
Health Status of the People
Enugu State is similar to other parts of Nigeria and Africa in its disease burdens. The most prevalent being:
- Malaria
- Typhoid fever
Pregnant women and children 0-5 years remain very vulnerable to a multitude of health problems.
The Enugu State Government in its effort to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity recently instituted a free maternal/ child care scheme. Infants age 0-5 years, are included in the free treatment. The long term impact of this policy will be monitored.