Umuahia: The Abia Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, announced that the state’s Executive Council has approved the retrofitting of the Ojukwu Bunker and National War Museum, which have long been abandoned. He shared this development during a briefing at the Government House, Umuahia, following the state’s Executive Council meeting.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the approval is the result of agreements between the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the state’s Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy. Mr. Kanu emphasized that the retrofitting of the Ojukwu Bunker, a major historical site, will modernize the facilities, enhance visitor experience, and position the bunker as a top tourist attraction in the state and country. The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to preserving history and boosting tourism, while also creating employment and business opportunities for residents.
The commissioner also announced the upcoming Abia-Turkey Investment Summit, scheduled to begin on November 25, at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia. The three-day summit aims to showcase Abia’s investment opportunities and strengthen business relations between Nigeria, Turkey, and Abia. Exhibitions will cover various sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, leather, energy, infrastructure, trade, and logistics.
Preparations are underway for Christmas events organized by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy. Events include the Comedy Fest on December 12 in Umuahia and the Abia Christmas Carol on December 20, both aimed at enhancing the festive spirit for residents and visitors.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuruibe, confirmed the retrofitting approval, noting delays were due to federal processes as the facilities are federally owned. The state is finalizing its Memorandum of Understanding with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy. Ekwuruibe said that work is expected to begin within three weeks to a month and highlighted the project as a key campaign promise of Governor Alex Otti.
Ekwuruibe also mentioned that the Abia Comedy Fest, organized by Enyioha Global Promotions in partnership with the state government, will feature local talents. Preparations for the Christmas Carol and other festive activities are ongoing. Beautification works in Aba are in collaboration with Nigerian Breweries, and there are plans to erect new monuments, reflecting government efforts to enhance the environmental outlook of Abia.