BRIEF HISTORY

Yenagoa, historically known as Iyeniagho or Ye-na-gwa, is derived from Yen (home) and Oguo (founder). This Epie language term means "Oguo’s home" and was later anglicized by British colonial officers to Yenagoa

Yenagoa is situated along the Ekole River, an arm of the River Nun. The town lies in the Attissa Kingdom of Bayelsa State. It is bordered to the west by Ekpetiama and Gbarain clans, to the south by Ogbogoro, to the north by Ovom, Onopa, and Amarata, and to the east by Swali

Originally a serene community with agricultural potential and rich cultural heritage, Yenagoa evolved into a bustling urban center. It became a state capital in 1996, embracing a cosmopolitan status due to the influx of diverse ethnic groups including Urhobo, Isoko, Ijaw, Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa

Yenagoa's economic activities, particularly farming, fishing, and gathering, fostered profitable inter-group relations with neighboring communities. The town's status as a state capital catalyzed rapid socio-economic development, integrating it into Nigeria's political mainstream and global trends

Despite modern influences, Yenagoa retains its cultural heritage, celebrating festivals like the New Yam festival (Adiafia), and various rites of passage such as marriage, circumcision, and burial ceremonies