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Guide
Owerri, Nigeria π³π¬
#1470
,
Nomad Score:
51%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Owerri is the capital city of Imo State in southeastern Nigeria, known for its hospitality and vibrant culture. |
π₯ Population | Approximate population is about 1.2 million. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 10-15 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Naira (β¦), with 1 USD β 410 NGN. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | Power supply is inconsistent, with frequent outages; recommended to have a generator. |
πΆ SIM Card | MTN, Glo, and Airtel provide good mobile coverage. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Banks like Access Bank, Zenith Bank, and First Bank are common; ATMs are available but might not accept international cards. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local guesthouses, and serviced apartments. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Partially cashless; mobile payment options are growing but cash is still widely used. |
π Short Term Rentals | Available on platforms like Airbnb and local listings, starting from β¦15,000 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options such as Owerri Hostel and budget hotels starting from β¦6,000 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The City Center, close to attractions and restaurants. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Areas around the University of Owerri provide a young, vibrant atmosphere with internet cafes. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Launchpad is a popular coworking space with good amenities. |
β Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Hub offers a quiet atmosphere with free Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Regular tech meetups at the Imo State University for entrepreneurs. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Monthly gatherings organized by Owerri Expats Group on Facebook. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber and Bolt operate in Owerri, making transport convenient. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options; it's safer and common to use taxis. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach, Oguta Lake, is about an hour away. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Air Peace offers flights to major Nigerian cities. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Arik Air connects international destinations through Lagos. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Major roads include the Owerri-Aba Road and Owerri-Onitsha Road. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Owerri Main Market is a central point for local transport. |
π Public Transport Passes | No specific passes; commuters use buses and taxis. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses and shared taxis connect Owerri to surrounding cities. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Federal Medical Centre Owerri is a leading healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | There's a local wellness center offering yoga classes called Owerri Wellness. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness First gym provides various fitness classes. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundry services are available at various hotels and standalone laundromats. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Jumia Food offers delivery from local restaurants. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Pounded yam and egusi soup is a must-try local dish. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Green Garden Restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly meals. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Choco Bliss is famous for its delightful pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Owerri Main Market for affordable local products. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Jumia and Konga for online shopping. |
π Grocery Delivery | Supermart offers grocery delivery services. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Waterfront Bar and Club is a popular nightlife spot. |
π» Local Brewery | Owerri has local breweries like Star Lager Brewery. |
π· Wine Bars | The Wine Lounge offers a selection of wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | The Nkwo Market has numerous street food vendors. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Places like Chicken Republic offer Nigerian fast food. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Mbari Cultural and Art Centre is a key cultural site. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Imo State Museum showcases local history. |
π° Historical Sites | The Ojukwu Bunker is a historical landmark. |
π Religious Sites | St. Joseph's Cathedral is a notable church to visit. |
π Annual Events | The Owerri Annual Festival celebrates local culture in December. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Art District is home to local artists and creators. |
π Theater Venues | The Owerri Theatre hosts local performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Owerri Main Market is the largest and most vibrant market. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music events happen frequently at various bars. |
π¨ Street Art | Street murals can be found around the city, particularly in the art district. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Local chefs offer cooking classes for traditional dishes. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | The Owerri Art Gallery hosts exhibitions and showcases local talents. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Imo State Government House is an architectural highlight. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Owerri is known for the rich Igbo cultural heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Amaigbo Nature Park provides a natural retreat. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Nguru Lake National Park is a 2-hour drive. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The promotional paths around the University offer good walking routes. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The Owerri hilltops provide great city vistas. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The Owerri Wetlands are popular for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Public parks allow bonfire gatherings in designated areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and FedEx are available for express deliveries. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops in the commercial area provide tech repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | The Owerri Sports Club has table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools offer Igbo and English language classes. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Owerri Library is a good place to study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Various community centers hold classes and events. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Internet cafes in city center offer gaming lounges. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are local gaming centers, but no official casinos. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¦40,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¦1,600,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¦30,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¦1,200,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¦35,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¦2,100,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¦25,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¦1,500,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¦32,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¦2,560,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¦24,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¦1,920,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 30% corporate tax rate. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% tax on dividends. |
π¦ Tax System | Taxation is based on worldwide income for residents. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 24%. |
π§Ύ VAT | Standard VAT rate is 7.5%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Limited regulations on foreign entities. |
π Property Tax | Yes, based on value assessment. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Currently around 3% for property transactions. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Lack of specific digital nomad tax incentives. |