The Abia State Government has unveiled plans to collaborate with the Federal Government to upgrade the National War Museum and the Ojukwu Bunker, both located in Umuahia, into world-class tourism destinations.
The initiative is aimed at preserving the state’s historical heritage while also enhancing its tourism potential.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, made this announcement during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia after the State Executive Council meeting. Kanu explained that the project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, aims to not only preserve the state’s rich history but also create economic opportunities through tourism.
He further emphasized the Abia government’s commitment to developing the state’s tourism sector and making it a leading historical and cultural tourism destination. “By revamping these sites, we will not only preserve history but also create economic opportunities through tourism,” Kanu said.
The commissioner also highlighted that the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy recently discovered over 55 unique heritage sites across Abia, including Ulo Chukwu 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.
In addition to these plans, Kanu affirmed that the government is committed to constructing a five-star hotel in Umuahia to support the growing tourism sector. “These projects are part of a comprehensive strategy to make Abia a leading tourism hub, attract visitors, and boost the state’s economy,” Kanu noted.
Matthew Ekwuribe, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, also spoke on the state’s abundant historical and natural attractions. He mentioned that Abia is home to waterfalls in at least three local government areas, caves in Alayi, Isuikwuato, and Umunneochi, as well as the Azumini Blue River, a unique natural feature. He also pointed out Akwaete Beach, which remains an untapped coastal resource.
Ekwuribe emphasized that if these sites are properly developed, they could position Abia as a leading tourism destination, both within Nigeria and internationally. He also highlighted the uniqueness of the National War Museum, the only one of its kind in West Africa, and the Ojukwu Bunker, which played a significant role during the Nigerian Civil War.
“These historical sites, if properly rehabilitated, would attract visitors from across the country and beyond,” Ekwuribe added.