September 18, (THEWILL) — The Enugu State Government has announced that the private sector will take the lead in driving tourism development, with government focusing on providing an enabling environment for investors.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugo Madueke, disclosed this at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos.
She revealed that Landmark Group has taken over the management of Nike Lake Resort Hotel, while Amber Hospitality now runs the Presidential Hotel, Enugu.
“Government has no business in business. Whatever we are doing is to attract and support the private sector. These concessions are proof that credible investors believe in the Enugu story and the reforms we are driving,” she said.
Madueke explained that the deals would revive the iconic hotels, create jobs, and stimulate activities along the tourism value chain, noting that Governor Peter Mbah’s administration is intentional about attracting strategic investors to expand the state’s economy.
“Enugu is open for business. Tourism is one of the sectors that can grow our GDP and internally generated revenue, and the private sector is our key partner,” she added.
The commissioner also commended Akwaaba convener, Mr Ikechi Uko, for dedicating this year’s edition to women in tourism, describing it as a recognition of their pivotal role in the industry.
Recently, Enugu hosted the Culture and Creative Summit in partnership with the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST).
The three-day event, themed Monetising Culture and Creative Industries at the Sub-National Levels, explored how culture can generate revenue for states.
Madueke stressed that the ultimate goal is to boost livelihoods through tourism.
“Tourism is about people. What matters most is how many jobs we create and how many lives we touch. That is why we are working with credible partners who can bring world-class standards to Enugu,” she said.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
