The Abia State government has announced plans to collaborate with the federal government to transform the National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker in Umuahia into world-class tourist attractions.
Information Commissioner Okey Kanu revealed this during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia, following Monday’s State Executive Council meeting.
According to Kanu, the initiative—led by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy—aims to preserve Abia’s rich historical heritage while enhancing tourism.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning the state as a premier destination for historical and cultural tourism.
“By revamping these sites, we will not only preserve history but also create economic opportunities through tourism,” he said.
He stated that the government has intensified efforts to identify and develop tourism sites across the state.
Mr. Kanu further revealed that the ministry recently discovered over 55 unique heritage sites, including Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi, Bende; Mazi Okoro Orji’s Compound in Arochukwu; and Ntubugwo Oloko in Ikwuano, where participants in the 1929 Aba Women’s Riot were tried.
Additionally, the commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to constructing a five-star hotel in Umuahia to bolster the expanding tourism sector.
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“These projects are part of a comprehensive strategy to make Abia a leading tourism hub, attract visitors, and boost the state’s economy,” Mr Kanu said.
Also, the commissioner for arts, culture, and creative economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, said Abia has numerous historical and natural attractions.
“Abia is blessed with waterfalls in at least three LGAs, caves in places like Alayi, Isuikwuato, and Umunneochi, as well as the Azumini Blue River, a unique natural attraction. We also have Akwaete Beach, which remains an untapped coastal treasure,” Mr Ekwuribe said.
He added that if the sites were properly developed, they could establish the state as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria and beyond.
The commissioner also highlighted the uniqueness of the National War Museum, the only one of its kind in West Africa, and the historical significance of the Ojukwu Bunker, which played a crucial role during the Nigerian Civil War.
He said, “These historical sites, if properly rehabilitated, would attract visitors from across the country and beyond.”
(NAN)
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