The Abia State Government has discovered over 55 unique heritage sites as part of its ongoing efforts to revamp the state’s tourism sector.
The sites, which include caves, waterfalls, and historical landmarks, were identified during an exploratory project led by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy.
Announcing this during a press briefing held after the weekly Executive Council meeting, in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Kanu, said the state government is committed to preserving these sites and harnessing their tourism potential.
“The Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy has made remarkable progress in identifying key heritage and memorial sites across the state.
“Over 55 of such sites have been discovered, and the government is taking deliberate steps to reactivate and preserve them,” Kanu stated.
Among the notable discoveries are the Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi, Ibon Waterfall in Arochukwu, the Mazi Okology’s compound in Arochukwu, and the location where participants in the famous Aba Women’s Riot of 1929 were tried.
He noted that the government, in collaboration with the federal government, also plans to revamp the National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker, both of which hold immense historical significance.
He explained that these efforts align with Governor Alex Otti’s vision of making Abia State a major tourist destination.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Matt Ekwuruibe, emphasized that the state has the potential to become a hub for tourism in Nigeria.
“Abia State is blessed with an abundance of cultural and historical landmarks, which have not really been getting the kind of attention that it requires.
“If all these potentials are harnessed, Abia State will be a very viable place to visit. What we have in the area of tourism is so enormous, that the whole world will want to visit Abia State to see what we have for ourselves,” said Ekwuruibe.
Beyond tourism, the commissioner for information, Prince Kanu revealed the state’s new electricity policy, which Governor Otti described as a milestone in industrialization.
According to Kanu, the new law aims to establish a viable electricity ecosystem to boost industrialization, attract investors, and encourage local participation in the power sector.
“The government is in advanced discussions with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to acquire a 60% stake.
“This will enable the state to extend electricity supply to eight local government areas in Abia Central and Abia North,” he revealed.
Kanu also highlighted the state’s road infrastructure projects, with seven major roads, including Ndoki Road, School Road, Market Road, Clifford Road amongst others set for commissioning soon.
He said that Contractors are working to complete various projects before the rainy season begins assuring that all these initiatives align with Governors Otti’s commitment to transforming Abia into a center for culture, tourism, and economic development.
Abia State Moves To Boost Tourism With New 55 Heritage Sites is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
Source: The Whistler
