The Abia State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government is to revamp the National war Museum and Ojukwu Bunker in Umuahia into world-class tourism attractions.
Okey Kanu, Commissioner for Information, Abia State, disclosed this at Government House, Umuahiia while briefing newsmen on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting led by Alex Otti, the governor of the state.
Kanu hinted that the state has discovered over 55 viable heritage sites across the state and vows to reactivate them to boost tourism.
“In a bid to identify its heritage and memorial sites, the Abia State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy recently embarked on an expository trip round the state during which it discovered over 55 unique and viable heritage sites.
“Notable among the sites are: the Ulochukwu cave in Alayi Bende LGA, the Mazi Okorie Orji’s Compound and Ibom waterfall in Arochukwu, Ntugbo Court, Oloko Ikwuano, where participants in the famous Aba Women Riots of 1929 were tried.
Read also: Modern Nigerian art: Exploring identity, renewal in post-war works
“These sites in due course would be reactivated and preserved for their historical significance and tourism potential,” Kanu stated.
The initiative, according to Kanu, is aimed at preserving history while attracting tourists to the state.
“In the same vein, the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy will in collaboration with the Federal Government revamp the National War Museum Umuahia and Ojukwu Bunker into world class tourism designations,” Kanu said.
He noted that the Abia Electricity Bill signed into law by the Governor Alex Otti was in fulfillment of his promise to establish a viable and reliable power-eco-system that would enhance the industrialization of the state.
He described the law as a major milestone that had set Abia ahead of other states.
He noted that, with the planned signing of an MoU to buy 60 percent stake in EEDC, Abia would be able to feed the remaining eight LGAS of Abia Central and North in addition to wheeling power to other SouthEast states.
Matthew Ekwuribe, Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, in his contribution, said that the state is blessed with lots of tourism sites, which if properly harnessed would boost the state’s IGR.
He disclosed that the tourism sector was open for private sector participation, adding that the ministry has initiated an Igbo programme, “Oge Omenala”, which provides opportunity for the people to talk about their rich cultural heritage on BCA, Real FM Radio, Zik FM among others between 11- 12 noon every Wednesday.
