As part of his steps to boost Enugu State's tourism sector, the Governor of Enugu State, Barr Peter Mbah has invested billions of naira in developing world-class tourism centres across the state. This strategic move, which aligns with the 2024 World Tourism Day theme, is geared towards enhancing Enugu’s cultural heritage, upgrading public spaces, and fostering peaceful coexistence through tourism.
According to the Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Tourism Board, Hon. Dame Rita Mbah, the initiative is aimed at promoting the connection between tourism and peace, showcasing the state’s natural and cultural heritage. “By preserving our cultural and natural heritage, we can reduce tension and nurture peaceful co-existence,” Mbah said during a press briefing. She highlighted the commencement of the Enugu City Beautification Project, starting with the Enugu gateway at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
As part of the project, barricades at the airport gate were replaced with modern security cameras to ensure a secure and welcoming environment for tourists. Art murals representing the state’s rich cultural history are being installed, alongside the removal of unsightly items from key locations to enhance the overall aesthetic of the capital territory.
Hon. Mbah also revealed that the tourism board has almost completed the first phase of a citywide beautification and roundabout scheme, which includes the upgrade of 13 roundabouts and the planting of flowers to improve public spaces. Parks across the state are also being upgraded, with major projects such as the development of the International Conference Centre, a 5-Star hotel, and Hotel Presidential set to enhance the state’s tourism appeal.
The International Conference Centre, which will host conferences from across Africa, also includes a theater, an amusement park, event spaces, and retail shops—providing a one-stop hub for tourism activities. Governor Mbah’s administration is further investing in medical tourism with plans for a 300-bed hospital in the state.
In addition to these, five recreational parks are under development across the state, including Edward Nnaji Park, Unity Park, Ejindu Park, Ngwo Park, and Eze Park. These parks will offer a variety of recreational activities, including football pitches, basketball courts, horse rides, and kiddies' amusement areas.
Hon. Rita Mbah concluded by noting the progress being made on the annual Unity Christmas Park, with over 30 indigenous welders already working on this year’s festive installations. With over 1,000 projects underway, she lauded Governor Peter Mbah's administration for its commitment to transforming Enugu into a global tourism destination. “We are proud to say that we handed over our future to a governor who understands the assignment, and he has continually proved to us that indeed tomorrow is here,” she remarked.
This unprecedented investment in tourism by the Mbah administration is expected to put Enugu State on the global tourism map, attracting both local and international tourists and fostering economic growth.
