Abia State Government Sets To Revamp War Museum, Umuahia

Abia State Government (ABSG) has discovered over 55 viable heritage sites across the state and vowed to reactivate them to boost tourism.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu revealed this while briefing the press on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

Prince Kanu, who said that the sites were discovered by the State Ministry of Arts , Culture and Creative Economy mentioned certain areas where the sites were found when it engaged in a sort of expository trip round the state.

“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 in Arochukwu, Ntugbo , Oloko Ikwuano where participants in the famous Aba Women riots of 1929 were tried.

“These sites in due course would be reactivated and preserved for their historical significance and tourism potential,” Prince Kanu stated.

The Commissioner disclosed that the state government in collaboration with the federal government would revamp the National War Museum Umuahia and Ojukwu Bunker and turn them into world class tourism destinations. This initiative aims to preserve history while attracting tourists to the state.

“In the same vain, Abia state government through 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.

“Not long ago I informed journalists that discussions were on with regards to the establishment of a five- star, Hotel in Umuahia . These efforts are geared towards revamping the tourism centers located in the state to make them viable and boost the tourism potential of the state,”.

Prince Kanu noted that the Abia electricity bill signed into law by the Governor, Dr Alex Otti is in fulfillment of his promise to establish a viable and reliable power-eco-system that will enhance the industrialization of the state.

He described the law as a major milestone that sets Abia state ahead of other states of the federation, adding that with the planned signing of an MoU to buy 60% stake in EEDC, Abia would be able to feed the remaining 8 LGAS of Abia Central and North in addition to wheeling power to other south East states.

On road infrastructure, Prince Kanu informed that work is ongoing in all the contract sites of the state and said that all the contractors are trying to take advantage of the dry season to ensure most of the projects are concluded before the rains set in.

He said that about 7 roads under the state direct labour project would be commissioned soon, adding that the roads include, Ndoki road, school road, among others.

Contributing, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuribe said that the state is blessed with lots of tourism sites, noting that if they are properly harnessed it will make Abia a viable place with huge potential to boost the state’s IGR.

He noted that the tourism sector is 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 among others between 11- 12 noon every Wednesday.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma was present at the briefing.