The Enugu State Government has begun the construction of a series of major tourism projects as part of efforts to reposition the state as a leading eco-tourism and adventure destination in Nigeria.
The state’s Commissioner for Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, made this known in a statement made available in Lagos.
Madueke said the development had led to the closure of the Ngwo Pine Forest to the public.
She said work had begun on a zipline project at the site, adding that the area had become a construction zone and would remain inaccessible to visitors until completion.
The projects, driven by the state government, are designed to promote sustainable tourism, boost economic diversification and deepen community participation across host areas.
The commissioner led a delegation of stakeholders, including tourism consultant Ikechi Uko and representatives of the contractors, to formally introduce the project teams and outline the scope of work to host communities.
The engagements, which held in Ngwo, Okpatu and Nsude, were structured as stakeholder meetings to ensure transparency and foster cooperation among the government, contractors and community leaders.
According to her, the projects are part of an integrated tourism infrastructure plan that includes canopy walkways at Nsude and Awhum.
Others include a zipline at Ngwo, a monumental cross at Okpatu and a cable car system.
The attractions are expected to leverage Enugu’s hills, natural landscapes and forests to offer immersive nature-based and adventure experiences, while paying attention to environmental preservation.
Madueke said community buy-in was central to the success of the initiative.
She noted that host communities would benefit through job creation, small business opportunities and increased exposure for local culture and heritage.
Madueke urged community leaders in Ngwo, where the zipline would be sited, to help inform and sensitise residents that construction was ongoing in the area.
The state government said some of the projects were scheduled to be completed and inaugurated within the year.
Once operational, the facilities are expected to stimulate domestic tourism, attract private investment and strengthen Enugu’s position as a key tourism destination in the South-East and beyond.
Also, Uko, who underscored the importance of harmony at project sites, said the stakeholder meetings were the foundation for sustainability and shared ownership
