GOVERNOR Peter Mba of Enugu State has shown a strong commitment to promoting and developing tourism as part of his efforts to make the state a destination for both domestic and international tourists.
This initiative aims not only to position the state as a tourist hotspot but also to stimulate its economy through strategic policies that create job opportunities and generate revenue, contributing to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Governor Mba’s proactive approach to opening Enugu State to the world is evident in his vision to enhance tourism offerings in the region. In late January and early February, he took significant steps by conducting a working tour to assess potential sites that could redefine the tourism experience. One such plan includes the construction of a zip line and a canopy walk at an archaeological site in Nsude.
This initiative is close to the Governor’s heart, as well as that of the passionate tourism commissioner, who aims not just to make a mark but to ensure that the people of Enugu benefit from the dividends of genuine and strategic tourism development that will positively impact the state’s economy.
Continuing his efforts to enhance the quality of life for the people of Enugu State through real-time tourism initiatives, Governor Mba has discovered a new, shorter, and more accessible route to the Awhum Waterfalls, catering to tourists seeking adventure and hiking experiences.
Speaking about his recent tour of the newly discovered short route to the waterfall and cave, Mr. Ikechi Uko, the coordinator of the Seven Wonders of Nigeria and a tourism consultant, shared on social media: “You can now walk to Awhum Waterfall in only five minutes. Unbelievable! They have created two new roads to the falls that do not pass through the monastery. One road leads from Nike Lake, and the other from Okpatu Hill, allowing for a 20-minute drive from Nike followed by a five-minute walk downhill. By June, everyone can visit, and they are even paving the roads.”
“For those who thought that visiting the Awhum Waterfall and Cave was challenging due to the difficult walk from the monastery, Enugu State has made it easy! It’s now just a five-minute walk from the signpost through the grotto to the waterfall. Once the two new roads are completed, you will be able to enter and exit this site in just 20 minutes. This proves that Enugu State is making progress.”
According to the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Enugu State,Mrs Ugochi Madueke“A new access road has been discovered from Nike in the Enugu East Local Government Area. Now, the journey from Nike to the Awhum Waterfall and Cave takes about 20 minutes by car, followed by just a five-minute walk from the parking area to the waterfalls.
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“This new discovery is a testament to Governor Peter Mba’s uncommon passion for changing the economic landscape of the state through tourism development and promotion. Kudos also goes to the chairpersons of the Udi and Enugu East Local Governments, Hon Hyginus Ogbonna Agu and Beloved-Dan Anike, for their support.” Madueke added.