Editor: Scholastica Ugwuoke
Enugu State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, has assured that the state will experience a significant boost in sports tourism during the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged COAL CITY GAMES.
Report says, the Festival is scheduled to hold from November 27 to December 11, 2026.
Speaking in an interview the Commissioner disclosed that Enugu State boasts 85 tourism sites.
She explained that, the administration of Governor Peter Mbah is committed to positioning Enugu as a tourism hub not only in Nigeria, but across Africa.
Dame Madueke further revealed that the zipline facility in Ngwo will be ready for commissioning in November to receive sports officials and visitors coming for the Games.
The Commissioner outlined key projects under Phase 1 of the state’s tourism development plan to include, historic Nsude Pyramid which is currently being revamped and the site will feature the longest canopy walkway in Africa, measuring about 700 feet, Okpatu & Awhum Crest of Hope_ monument stands 70 feet tall on a hill 680 metres above sea level.
Also, a cable car system is being constructed to connect Okpatu Hill to the Awhum Waterfall, located 5 kilometres away, Awhum Waterfall is also undergoing expansion and development, Attakwu will host an animal sanctuary, while Akwuke will feature a sand beach and water parks, Ovu Lake project is also under construction and It will include an 18-hole golf course hotel resort, clubhouses, and boat racing facilities.
Phase 2 Plans consist of the Ezimo Waterfall, Lejja – described as the oldest smelting site in the world – and the Ezeagu Tourism Complex in Awgu as major projects to be developed.
