The Enugu State Government has approved a fresh round of infrastructure and development projects spanning road construction, housing, tourism and public facilities as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth and improve residents' quality of life.The approvals were granted during the latest meeting of the State Executive Council (SEC), with officials describing the projects as key to the administration's target of expanding the state's economy from $4 billion to $30 billion within eight years.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo, alongside the Commissioners for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, and Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, outlined the projects approved by the council.
Engr. Okoh disclosed that the council approved the completion and modernization of Wings C and D of the Enugu State Secretariat Complex in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), while rehabilitation works will also be carried out on the already occupied Wings A and B.
He explained that although Wings A and B were commissioned in 2015, the remaining sections of the complex were left unfinished and have since deteriorated. The planned upgrade will transform the entire secretariat into a modern administrative complex with improved facilities while addressing structural deficiencies in the existing buildings.
The Executive Council also approved the construction of 1,000 fully detached terrace homes within the Enugu Smart City. The housing development will comprise four- and five-bedroom units supported by essential infrastructure, including roads, electricity and water supply.
In addition, work will continue on the development of 18,000 mass housing units at the Gateway Estate to expand affordable housing and reduce accommodation shortages across the state.
On road infrastructure, the government gave the green light for the immediate construction of the 10.5-kilometre Igogoro–Amachara–Ikpamodo–Okpo–Amaada Road.
The council also approved emergency flood control measures in Nsukka, including repairs to damaged drainage systems, clearing of blocked channels and the construction of five adjoining roads to tackle recurring flooding in the area.
To strengthen maintenance capacity, the Ministry of Works also received approval to procure more than 30 pieces of light equipment for road maintenance, emergency interventions and other direct labour projects.
Speaking on tourism, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, announced the approval of several flagship projects aimed at positioning Enugu as a leading tourism destination.
Among them is the proposed Ovu Lake Golf Resort at Akpawfu in Nkanu East Local Government Area. The resort will feature an 18-hole championship golf course, a luxury hotel with over 100 rooms, a 600-seat conference centre, boat regatta facilities, landscaped gardens, clubhouses, children's recreation areas and multiple sports facilities.
The Executive Council also approved the Attakwu Tourism Development Project, which will transform the area's natural forest and lake into an ecotourism destination complete with an animal sanctuary and other nature-based attractions.
Similarly, the Akwuke Tourism Project will introduce a modern sand beach, theme park, water park, scenic boardwalk and recreational facilities designed to attract families and visitors.
Another landmark approval is the Okpatu–Awhum Cable Car Project, expected to become one of the state's signature tourism attractions.
According to Dame Madueke, the cable car will span approximately 5.32 kilometres, linking the Cross of Hope on Okpatu Hill to the famous Awhum Waterfall through three stations located at Okpatu Hill, the Awhum Monastery and the waterfall.
The project will also include supporting attractions such as an Experience Centre, Rotunda and Food Court, offering visitors a scenic alternative to climbing the hills while enhancing the overall tourism experience.
