Ṅgwà | |
|---|---|
| Total population | |
| 314,840[1] (1963, census) | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Abia State | |
| Languages | |
| |
| Religion | |
| |
| Related ethnic groups | |
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The Ngwa people (natively: Nde Ṅgwà IPA: [ŋɡʷa]) are an Igbo group living in the southern part of Igboland. The Ngwa people are found predominantly in Abia State with a population of 314,840 in 1963. They cover 1,328 square kilometres (513 sq mi)[2] and are the largest subgroup of Igbo people.
It is bounded by the Imo River in the west, and the Anang-Ibibio people in the east. The Asa and Ndoki people shares boundary in the south. Ngwaland borders Ubakala and Olokoro people in the north and Isuorgu in the northeastern part.
Chineke is considered the most powerful god in the pantheon of Ngwa gods. Others include Ohanjoku and Amadioha. In pre-colonial Ngwa, the Okonko society and Ekpe served as law enforcers. Festivals in Ngwaland include Ekpe and Owu masquerade festivals and the Ikoro drama festival.
The Ngwa people speak Ngwa dialect which is rich in idioms and proverbs. They are predominantly Christians, but also practice tradition religion and customs. The Ngwa people are mainly farmers, producing crops such as yam, cassava, cocoyam and palm oil production. Importation of iron for hoe and machete began around the 16th and 19th century.