The Enugu State Government has approved N13.8 billion for the first phase of a wide-ranging tourism project funding initiative aimed at transforming the state’s leisure and cultural landscape. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, confirmed this after the State Executive Council meeting held in Enugu.
According to Dame Madueke, the first phase will include several iconic projects, notably Nigeria’s first zipline and the longest canopy walkway in Africa. The Nsude Pyramid Canopy Walkway will span 600 meters, beginning from Ugwu Uto and sloping over 500 meters to the ancient pyramid site. The walkway will offer a scenic aerial view and will feature rondavels, a lighthouse, and an observatory with a hilltop restaurant 530 meters above sea level.
Another major site is the Ngwo Pine Forest. Known today as a popular location for photoshoots, it will undergo a beautification plan that includes rotundas, flower gardens, and a 300-meter zipline—the first of its kind in Nigeria. The transformation aims to increase the forest’s tourism appeal while maintaining its natural serenity.
The Cross of Hope at Okpatu Hill will rise as Africa’s tallest cross. Standing atop a 15-story structure, the 50-meter monument will reach a total elevation of 630 meters above sea level. This is expected to serve as a major religious and cultural landmark, drawing thousands of visitors annually.
Awhum Waterfall, a mystical and spiritual attraction, will be upgraded with additional canopy walkways and wooden boardwalks to enrich the visitor experience. Similarly, Akwuke Beach and Atakwu Waterpark will receive comprehensive upgrades, including experience centers, food courts, and infrastructure powered by renewable energy.
The development plan also covers Ovu Lake Golf and Resort, envisioned as a luxury destination complete with a boat jetty. The resort is designed to host world-class events and cater to international tourists. All these are part of the state’s first-phase rollout backed by tourism project funding totaling N13.8 billion.
Earlier in 2024, the state engaged renowned consultants Ambassador Ikechi Uko and Queen Ebele Enemchukwu to assess tourism potential across no fewer than 15 key locations. After site visits and extensive planning, Governor Peter Mbah and his cabinet approved the first-phase blueprint, which also includes attractions like the Nike Lake Landmark Upgrade, the Enugu Air project, new conference centers, and the revamp of Hotel Presidential.
When fully completed, the projects are estimated to cost N30 billion and are aimed at driving the state’s economy from $3 billion to $30 billion. Governor Mbah has projected that by 2027, Enugu should welcome at least six million tourists yearly. These tourism projects are expected to be the backbone of that economic leap.
Tourism Consultant Ikechi Uko praised the government’s ambition, calling it the most far-reaching by any Nigerian state since the tenure of former Cross River Governor, Dr. Donald Duke. Uko noted, “This is a renewal never seen before in Nigeria. From infrastructure to leisure, Enugu is setting a bold benchmark.”
The second phase of development will feature a cable car system from Okpatu to Awhum, alongside further upgrades at Ezimo, Oji River, Awgwu, Nsukka, Ezeagu, and other locations. These additions aim to complete Enugu’s transformation into a premier tourism destination within West Africa.
With the government’s heavy investment in infrastructure and marketing, Enugu appears well-positioned to become Nigeria’s next tourism hotspot. The vision is bold, the blueprint is detailed, and the commitment is evident in the financial backing behind each phase.
