The facelift embarked on by the Abia State government for historical sites and national monuments including the national war museum and the Ojukwu Bunker both in Umuahia have reached 80% completion and will be ready by the end of the year, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu has revealed.
The project, he explained, is part of a wider effort to preserve Abia’s rich history and monuments, promote tourism and unlock new economic opportunities.
Other historical sites and natural monuments approved for upgrade and recognition include, Government College, Umuahia, Ibom Waterfall, Arochukwu and the Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi , Bende LGA.
Prince Kanu said that the designation would strengthen the State Government’s efforts to preserve its cultural and natural heritage while positioning the sites for wider international recognition.
“These sites have been elevated to heritage sites that enhances the State’s tourism potential.
“With this approval, they are primed to attract recognition as UNESCO Heritage Sites,” Kanu said as he announced that Aba has been designated a Creative and Innovative City, in recognition of its longstanding entrepreneurial and creative significance.
He disclosed that the retrofitting of the Ojukwu Bunker and National War Museum are expected to be completed before the end of 2026, adding that the projects, when completed, would enhance the preservation of the historical value of the sites, improve visitors’ experience and further strengthen their tourism potential.
He said work on the Ibom Waterfall Tourism Corridor in Arochukwu
had already commenced through the State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, including the grading of access roads, and is expected to be completed before the end of the year.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the Ministry had commenced the erection of monuments at strategic locations across the State to preserve Abia’s heritage, honour its heroes and heroines and promote the State’s cultural identity.
Among the monuments is one dedicated to the heroines of the historical 1929 Aba Women’s riot, celebrating their courage, resilience, resistance and leadership.
