Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma revealed that his government has entered a pact with Hilton Group to manage the iconic Concord Hotel after its renovation.
The governor stated this to news men in Owerri while on inspection alongside Hilton Group director on the ongoing renovation work at the state owned Hotel.
According to the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor, Oguwike Nwachuku, the governor signed for the Imo State government in the presence of the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmas Iwu, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, the Commissioner for Tourism, Barr. Jerry Egemba, the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, the Principal Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Mrs. Irene Chima and other top government officials.
He said earlier before the dotted lines in the MOU were signed off by both parties, Ms Sozugecer and the Governor, accompanied by other government officials, had inspected the ongoing renovation work at the Concorde Hotel Owerri built in 1979.
Uzodimma regretted that the Concorde Hotel was criminally run down by successive governments in Imo State, a situation that necessitated the complete rebuilding of the edifice.
He said: “Having suffered years of neglect, which led to management challenges and the unfortunate collapse of this iconic venture, we are committed to repositioning Imo Concorde Hotel to world-class standards as I inspected the ongoing renovation works at hotel; historic edifice and a symbol of pride for ndi Imo State.
“The renovation project is a significant step toward revitalising our hospitality industry and restoring Imo Concorde Hotel as a premier destination for quality service and luxury accommodation.
“The contractor, originally allotted a 12-month contract period, has demonstrated remarkable commitment, assuring completion within nine months.
“This effort represents our dedication to transforming critical infrastructure for the benefit of our people, and from the impressive progress observed during my inspection, I am confident this project will be delivered within the shortest possible time.”
Also the governor said the project will cost about N19 billion noted that 30 per cent down payment had already been made and that by next week, another 30 per cent payment would be effected and hinted that the contractors of the project have promised to hand over the building in nine months.
Uzodinma further expressed confidence that the coming of Hilton Group to Imo, and in competition with Marriott, will boost economic activities in the State, help create employment opportunities and enhance tourism potential which Imo is already a pace setter in the country.
Imo Govt Seals Pact With Hilton Group To Manage Concorde Hotel is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
