Abia State Unveils 55 Tourism Sites & Infrastructure Upgrades for Sustainable Growth

Abia State Government, on October 7, identified 55 potential tourism sites across its 17 local government areas, aiming to leverage tourism for inclusive development and environmental sustainability. 

The announcement was made during the 2025 World Tourism Day celebration, held in collaboration with the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) in Abia.

The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, delivered a keynote address at the event titled Tourism and Sustainable Transformation. He supports the state’s ambition to become a leading cultural and ecotourism destination. 

The identified sites, noted for their cultural, ecological, and historical significance, are part of a broader strategy to redefine tourism as an immersive experience that goes beyond sightseeing.

Ekwuribe highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the development of ecotourism hubs, the digitisation of heritage sites, and empowerment programmes focused on women and youth in the creative economy. These efforts align with the state’s vision for sustainable transformation through tourism.

Chief Caleb Ajagba, of the State Government, co-founded Tourism as a co-tourism analyst for inclusive development and environmental sustainability. He supports the government’s commitment to unlocking the sector’s potential to drive economic prosperity.

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“In Abia today, we are witnessing a transformation that proves that even strangers can spark positive change through productive ideas. Tourism, if well harnessed, can be a tool for economic prosperity,” he said.

The Vice President (South East) of FTAN, Wilson Ugwu, praised the state’s dedication to tourism development and urged stronger partnerships between government bodies and tourism stakeholders to maximise impact.

On the infrastructure front, Governor Alex Otti accompanied President Bola Tinubu to inaugurate the reconstructed 6.7 km Port Harcourt Road in Aba, now a three-lane carriageway, marking a historic milestone for the state’s commercial hub. 

The project, executed by Otti’s administration, signals Aba’s revival after years of neglect. The governor’s remarks were shared in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, also inaugurated seven additional roads in Aba: Ohanku Road, Ndoki Road, Ajiwe Street, Umuatako Road, Chief Nkoro Street, Gabriel Nwosu Street, and Pepples Road. 

Speaking at Enyimba International Stadium, the President commended Otti for the quality of the projects and reaffirmed federal support for states demonstrating strong leadership.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) And Answers 

What is Abia State doing to promote tourism?

Abia State has identified 55 tourism sites across its 17 local government areas. It’s developing ecotourism hubs, digitising sites, and launching empowerment programs for women and youth to promote cultural and sustainable tourism.

What infrastructure projects were recently inaugurated in Aba?

The 6.7 km Port Harcourt Road, now a three-lane carriageway, along with seven other roads—Ohanku Road, Ndoki Road, Ajiwe Street, Umuatako Road, Chief Nkoro Street, Gabriel Nwosu Street, and Pepples Road- was inaugurated to boost Aba’s infrastructure.

How does Abia State plan to use tourism for economic growth?

A: The state is leveraging its cultural, ecological, and historical sites to create eco-tourism hubs and empower local communities, aiming to drive inclusive development and economic prosperity.

Who attended the World Tourism Day 2025 event in Abia?

The event was attended by state officials, including Commissioner Matthew Ekwuribe and Chief of Staff Caleb Ajagba, as well as FTAN representatives like Wilson Ugwu, Vice President (South East).

What is the significance of the Port Harcourt Road reconstruction?

The reconstruction of the 6.7 km Port Harcourt Road marks a significant milestone in Aba’s revival, addressing decades of neglect and enhancing connectivity in the state’s commercial hub.