ANAMBRA: THE EMERGING TOURISM HAVEN

By Uche Kalu :

On Sunday, October 13th, 2024, Anambra State was abuzz with excitement as the Anambra Picnic and Funfair took over the state-of-the-art Film Village in Awka. This highly anticipated event united families, friends, and thrill-seekers of all ages, transforming the venue into a dynamic hotspot of entertainment, laughter and joy.

The picnic and funfair offered an unforgettable experience, featuring:

Thrilling games and activities, scintillating music and dance performances, delicious local cuisine and refreshing treats.

Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, partnered with the Anambra State Tourism Volunteers Network (TV) to host the prestigious event. The TV Network, comprising passionate tourism enthusiasts, focuses on promoting tourism’s vast benefits and fostering its growth in the state.

The event’s success underscores Anambra’s commitment to promoting tourism, cultural heritage, and community bonding. As the state continues to invest in initiatives like the Film Village, Anambra solidifies its position as a premier destination for leisure, entertainment and cultural exploration in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Culture and Entertainment, Mr Don Onyenji emphasised the importance of cultural events in promoting unity and social cohesion.

According to him, “this picnic and funfair is more than just entertainment; it’s about celebrating our rich cultural heritage and fostering community bonding. Anambra State is committed to supporting initiatives that showcase our unique identity and promote tourism development.”

He maintained that globally, tourism has emerged as the new oil and gas, driving economic growth and development. According to him, if Anambra State fully develops its tourism sector, it could become the next richest state in Nigeria in a remarkably short time.

Onyenji further noted that the present administration has intentionally embraced tourism project and also committed billions of naira in tourism development in the state, both through its policies, programmes, and physical projects.

Anambra State is already recognized for its vibrant commercial activities and entrepreneurship. By harnessing its tourism potential, the state can further diversify its economy, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, agricultural strengths and strategic location. With continued investment and support, Anambra is poised to climb the economic ladder, potentially surpassing other states in the near future.

The commissioner elaborated on the governor’s vision for Anambra, aiming to transform it into a thriving homeland where residents can live, work, unwind, and enjoy themselves. Key projects underway to achieve this vision include the groundbreaking Solution Fun City Awka (SFCA), Sub-Saharan Africa’s first-of-its-kind entertainment hub, boasting a country club, amusement park, and sports facilities. Other notable initiatives include the Neighbourhood Leisure Park in Awka and the construction of a massive ten-storey hotel also in Awka.

These developments underscore the governor’s commitment to making Anambra an attractive destination for residents and tourists alike, ultimately boosting the state’s economy and prosperity. By investing in infrastructure and entertainment, Anambra is poised to become a model for liveability and economic growth in Nigeria.

“The development of the Solution Fun City alone will create numerous job opportunities and serve as a central hub for leisure and tourism in the state,” Onyenji stated.

He further explained that Governor Soludo is transforming Anambra into a tourist haven, beyond the impressive Solution Fun City. Significant projects underway include the retrofitting and expansion of the Igboukwu Museum, home to a rich collection of Igbo cultural artifacts.

The Agulu Lake Leisure Park is also being developed, with plans for an artificial beach, offering exciting recreational opportunities. These initiatives will cement Anambra’s status as a premier tourist destination in Nigeria, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

He also explained that the state government is making significant strides in promoting rural tourism by developing and showcasing heritage sites across various communities. Key sites include: Ogbunike Cave, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, Anam Sand Beach and the historic Ojukwu Bunker in Amorka, which played a pivotal role during the Nigerian Civil War among others.

Unveiling the Anambra State Chapter of the Tourism Volunteers Network, he emphasized the importance of collaboration to boost the sector. To ensure tourism development reaches beyond urban areas, the state government is actively engaging with local communities to establish leisure parks, promoting grassroots growth and community involvement.

“Anambra State is home to numerous natural and historical treasures that are yet to be fully explored. Our goal is to bring these attractions to the forefront, not just for entertainment or for tourism development, but also to preserve our rich cultural heritage,” he said.

The commissioner extended an invitation to investors to consider Anambra State, highlighting its vast tourism potential, numerous investment opportunities, and status as the safest and most conducive state for investments in the country.

Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, represented by the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, Ambassador Phil Robert praised Anambra’s tourism potentials and commended the state government’s innovative approach and commitment to boosting tourism.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including Prince Chinedu Okafor, Chairman of Awka South Local Government, and Mr. Chinedu Obidigwe, former National Assembly member representing Anambra East/West Federal Constituency. Also in attendance was Chidi Uzowulu, State Coordinator of Anambra Tourism Volunteers Network, along with numerous other dignitaries. They collectively acknowledged Anambra’s vast natural resources and tourism potential, praising the current administration’s efforts to develop and harness these assets.