The Enugu State Government has identified tourism as a major driver of its planned $30 billion economy, with Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from the sector expected to play a key role in the state’s economic expansion.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ugochi Madueke, disclosed this in an interview with journalists on Friday in Enugu.
Madueke recalled that the administration of Peter Mbah has set a target to grow the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from about $4.4 billion in 2023 to $30 billion within four to eight years.
According to her, the ambitious plan will be achieved through strategic investments in sectors including agriculture, industrialisation and tourism.
The commissioner said the state government is currently revitalising four major tourist attractions across Enugu to strengthen the tourism sector.
She explained that construction work is ongoing at Ngwo Pine Forest, where facilities such as a zipline, visitor stations (runtndas), an experience centre and a guesthouse are being developed.
At Nsude Pyramid Park, the government is building a 600-metre canopy walkway, upgrading the pyramids and constructing new visitor facilities including food courts and automated gate systems.
Madueke added that similar revitalisation work is ongoing at Awhum Waterfall and Cave, located near the Awhum Monastery, as well as Cross Hope at Okpatu Hill.
She further revealed that construction will soon commence at two additional sites: Akwuke Sand Beach and Ovu Lake Resort.
Madueke noted that although the state initially targeted April 2026 for the completion of the projects, logistical issues such as soil conditions and accessibility challenges could lead to minor delays.
However, she expressed confidence that the projects would be completed by mid-2026.
The commissioner emphasised that tourism is expected to become the primary source of Internally Generated Revenue for Enugu State.
She projected that at least three million tourists could visit the state annually once the projects are completed.
According to her, increased tourist inflow would boost the economy, create jobs and stimulate local businesses, particularly in host communities.
“Communities are the first beneficiaries of these developments. The state government sees tourism as the next oil for Enugu,” she said.
Madueke also highlighted investment opportunities in the hospitality and service sectors.
She noted that the state now has improved infrastructure, including a newly acquired six-aircraft airline fleet, which is expected to expand to 20 aircraft by the end of the year.
The commissioner encouraged investors to explore opportunities in restaurants, hotels, bars and residential apartments to take advantage of the anticipated tourism boom.
“Enugu is already on the map. Tourism will drive employment, development and global awareness. We have everything it takes to turn this vision into reality,” she said.
Visit GMTNewsng for more news stories.
