The Enugu State Government, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, is making significant strides in revamping the 85 abandoned tourist sites scattered across the state. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ugochi Madueke, disclosed that 10 of these sites would be completed before the end of the year. The ministry’s goal is to make Enugu a cultural and tourism destination of the world by developing, sustaining, and showcasing its tourism potentials.
Madueke revealed that security measures, including partnering with local vigilance groups, would be put in place to secure these sites. Some of the tourist sites slated for development include Awhum Water Fall, Ezimo Water Fall, Ezeagu Hot-and-Cold Stream, Oha’s cave (Ebe Chukwu Bili), Obiara Ohu Water Fall in Awgu, Osum Water Fall in Awgu Nta, Akpawfu Lake in Enugu East, and an age-long Pyramid at Nsude in Udi Local Government Area.
To boost revenue generation from tourism and address the challenge of paucity of funds, the ministry is working on amending its enabling law. Currently, the ministry does not generate revenue but relies on its cultural troupe as a source of income.
Former members of the Enugu State House of Assembly have commended Governor Mbah for his efforts to revamp Hotel Presidential in Enugu by awarding a contract for its rehabilitation. They also praised him for his commitment to resuscitating ailing industries like Nigergas Company Limited.
Governor Mbah’s administration aims to convert all dormant assets into productive use by rehabilitating, refurbishing, and commissioning them. Revamping Hotel Presidential will not only put Enugu on the world map as a premier destination for investment, tourism, and hospitality but will also create jobs for youths.
