The Enugu State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ugochi Madueke, said on Friday the state’s targeted $30 billion economy will be largely driven by internally generated revenue (IGR) from tourism.

Governor Peter Mbah’s administration is projected to grow the state’s GDP sevenfold, from approximately $4.4 billion in 2023 to $30 billion within four to eight years, through agriculture, industrialisation, and other sectors.

The commissioner said in Enugu that the state government was currently revamping four major tourist sites across Enugu State.

According to her, construction is underway at Ngwo Pine Forest, including the zipline, rotundas (patrol/visitor stations), experience centre, and guesthouse.

“Similarly, at Nsude Pyramid Park and Eco-Adventure, efforts are ongoing to build a 600-metre canopy walkway, revamp the pyramids, construct rotundas, build experience centres and food courts, and implement automated gate access.

“The Awhum Waterfall and Cave, located near the Awhum Monastery, as well as the Cross Hope at Okpatu Hill, all in Udi, are also undergoing similar revitalisation,” Ms Madueke said.

She added that construction was expected to begin soon at two more sites: Akwuke Sand Beach and Ovu Lake Resort in Akpawfu, Nkanu East Local Government Area.

Ms Madueke noted that while the state initially targeted completion by April 2026, logistical challenges such as soil conditions and accessibility issues may cause slight delays.

The commissioner emphasised that tourism was poised to become the primary source of IGR for Enugu State, predicting that at least three million tourists would visit the state annually.

She said this would boost the economy, create employment, and stimulate local businesses.

Ms Madueke also highlighted opportunities for investors, noting that the state was well-equipped with infrastructure, including a newly acquired six-aircraft fleet, which is expected to expand to 20 by the end of the year.

She encouraged investors to explore businesses in restaurants, hotels, bars, and apartments to benefit from the anticipated tourism boom.

“Enugu is on the map already. Tourism will drive employment, development, and awareness. We have everything it takes to turn this vision into reality,” she explained.

(NAN)