Enugu State is preparing to unveil the country’s first zipline and Africa’s longest canopy walkway,In a landmark move set to redefine tourism in Nigeria,. These projects are part of a massive N30 billion tourism development initiative approved by the state government.
According to Enugu State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, the developments will begin with the Nsude Pyramid Canopy Walkway—a 600-meter-long elevated trail that will connect Ugwu Uto to the historic Nsude Pyramids. This will be the first canopy walkway in Nigeria’s Southeast and the longest in Africa.
The first-of-its-kind 300-meter zipline will be located at the Ngwo Pine Forest, which is already a popular destination for photo shoots. Plans include beautification with rotundas, flower gardens, and new visitor facilities.
Other highlights of the first phase include:
The Cross of Hope at Okpatu Hill: A 50-meter-tall cross standing atop a 15-story building, reaching a total elevation of 630 meters above sea level—the tallest cross in Africa.
Awhum Waterfall Enhancements: Additional canopy and boardwalk installations to enhance the mystical experience.
Akwuke Beach and Atakwu Waterpark: Waterparks featuring food courts, experience centres, and powered by renewable energy.
Ovu Lake Golf & Resort: A full-fledged resort with a golf course, boat jetty, and event hosting facilities.
Tourism consultants Ikechi Uko and Queen Ebele Enemchukwu were commissioned to assess over 15 potential sites earlier in 2024. Their recommendations shaped the final project blueprint, which received Governor Peter Mba’s approval.
The ambitious second phase includes a cable car system from Okpatu to Awhum, as well as developments in Ezimo, Oji River, Awgwu, Nsukka, and Ezeagu. All efforts are part of the state’s broader goal to grow its economy from $3 billion to $30 billion, with tourism as a key driver.
According to Uko, “This is the most ambitious tourism investment by any Nigerian state since Dr. Donald Duke’s tenure in Cross River. Enugu is undergoing an unprecedented renewal.”
Governor Mba’s administration plans to attract 6 million visitors annually by 2027. With these developments, Enugu is poised to become a tourism hotspot in West Africa.
