Abia State Government has concluded plans to renovate two major national historical monuments in the state capital, Umuahia, the Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum.
This was disclosed by the state Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu while speaking with newsmen in Umuahia.
He said, the decision was aimed at transforming the state’s cultural, historical, and creative landscape, aligning with the vision of Governor Alex Otti in the area of arts and creative economy.
“This follows the finalisation of the agreements between the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy.
“The renovation and upgrade of the facilities at the centre will modernise both the iconic heritage site, re-restore physical experience to the centre, and reposition the bunker as a leading tourist site in the state and country”.
Kanu said the intervention was a way of reinforcing the state government’s unwavering commitment to preserving the nation’s history while elevating the state’s tourist potential.
This he said will eventually provide employment and business opportunities for Abians.
The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuruibe stated that his Ministry was presently working in tandem with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy to ensure that they finalise the Memorandum of Understanding.
He said very soon the state would be able to start the renovation of both facilities, stressing that it is a fulfilment of one of the Governor’s campaign promises.
“And this is one of the promises that His Excellency made during his campaign, his manifesto. So most of them are coming to fulfilment”, the Commissioner added.
