ABIA STATE GOVT APPROVES FULL RETROFITTING OF OJUKWU BUNKER, NATIONAL WAR MUSEUM IN HISTORIC TOURISM REVAMP

The Abia State Executive Council has given full approval for the comprehensive retrofitting and upgrade of the iconic Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum in Umuahia, two of Nigeria’s most treasured Civil War heritage sites.

The development marks a major step in the Otti administration’s drive to preserve Abia’s historical identity while revitalising its tourism economy.

The approval follows the successful conclusion of agreements between the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the Abia State Government, through the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy.

Announcing the decision while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, described the move as a milestone in the administration’s cultural renaissance agenda.

Prince Kanu said the initiative reflects the present administration’s commitment to preserve the State’s history and unlock its vast tourism potential.

He said, “Council has approved the comprehensive retrofitting of Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum, a major historical monument in the State and Country.

“This follows the finalisation of 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, a rich historical experience to the centre, and reposition the bunker as a leading tourist site in the State and Country.”

The Commissioner further noted that the intervention will also create employment and business opportunities for Abians.

He added, “This intervention reinforces the State Government’s unwavering commitment to preserve our history while elevating the State’s tourist potential, which ultimately will further provide employment and business opportunities for Abians.”

In his contribution, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Dr. Mattew Ekwuribe, emphasized that the project is in fulfillment of Governor Otti’s campaign promises. He explained that the retrofitting of the Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum had been delayed due to their ownership by the Federal Government.

Dr. Ekwuribe stated that the State is working closely with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy to finalise the necessary Memorandum of Agreements before the commencement of the project.

He assured that work would begin “in another three weeks or one month”, adding that the State Government has already commenced the refurbishing of monuments in Umuahia and Aba as part of its broader cultural renewal efforts.

With this step, the Otti administration signals a renewed commitment to transforming Abia into a premier tourism destination anchored on history, culture , and creative enterprise.