The Enugu State Government has approved the commencement of several major projects spanning roads, tourism, housing, and administrative infrastructure. The approvals were granted during the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting at the weekend, as announced by commissioners at a press briefing.
Secretariat Upgrade and Road Projects
Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ben Osy Okoh, disclosed SEC's approval for the completion and upgrade of Wings C and D of the Enugu State Secretariat Complex in GRA, Enugu, along with extensive rehabilitation of Wings A and B. Wings A and B were completed in May 2015, while the remaining wings remain uncompleted and in a deplorable state. The project includes modern facilities and correction of challenges identified in the existing wings.
Additionally, the SEC approved the immediate commencement of a 10.5km Igogoro-Amachara-Ikpamodo-Okpo-Amaada road project. Work on flashflood points on Nsukka major road and construction of five adjoining streets were also approved to address flooding. The project includes comprehensive repair of damaged drainage systems and evacuation of blocked drains.
The council also approved the procurement of over 30 pieces of light equipment for the Ministry of Works for direct labour projects, intervention, and maintenance works, aimed at reducing intervention costs.
Housing Development
Following the completion of the 6.5km dual carriageway for the first phase of the New Enugu City and ongoing internal road construction, the government approved the construction of 1,000 fully detached terrace housing units (four- and five-bedroom). Furthermore, 18,000 mass housing units are being developed at Gateway Estate in Enugu to address the housing deficit and costs. The comprehensive housing development includes road infrastructure, water, and electricity.
Tourism Projects
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ugochi Madueke, announced the development of three landmark tourism projects. The Ovu Lake Golf Resort at Akpawfu in Nkanu East LGA will feature an 18-hole championship golf course, a luxury hotel with over 100 rooms, a 600-seat conference centre, boat regatta, landscaped gardens, club houses, children's playgrounds, lawn tennis, and basketball courts.
The Attakwu Tourism Project in Nkanu West LGA will develop a pristine virgin forest and natural lake into a major ecotourism destination with an animal sanctuary and nature-based attractions. The Akwuke Tourism Project in Enugu South LGA will transform the area into a premier leisure destination with a modern sand beach, theme park, water park, scenic boardwalk, and a recreational park for families.
Madueke also disclosed approval of the Okpatu–Awhum Cable Car Project, a flagship tourism initiative. The cable car will span approximately 5.32 kilometres from Okpatu Hill (home to the Cross of Hope) to the Awhum Waterfall, with three stations: departure at the Cross of Hope, intermediate at Awhum Monastery, and terminal at the waterfall. Visitors will enjoy a safe, scenic ride instead of climbing on foot, with additional attractions including a Rotunda, Experience Centre, and Food Court.
According to the commissioners, these approvals align with the administration's vision to grow the state's economy from $4 billion to $30 billion in eight years.
