Enugu State is on the verge of launching Nigeria’s first zipline as part of an ambitious eco-tourism development programme that will introduce a series of adventure attractions across the state.
The landmark project, located at the historic Ngwo Pine Forest, is nearing completion and forms the first phase of a broader strategy to position Enugu as one of Nigeria’s leading tourism destinations.
The revelation was made by tourism expert and consultant to the Enugu State Government, Mr. Ikechi Uko, following an oversight visit by the Enugu State House of Assembly Committee on Chieftaincy, Culture and Tourism to inspect ongoing works at the Ngwo Pine Forest Zipline Project.
State Commisioner for Culture and Tourism Dame Ugochi Madueke led Hon. Malachi and Hon. Ekwueme Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Committee on the oversight visit.
According to Uko, lawmakers expressed excitement over the transformation taking place at the country’s largest pine forest, where several tourism facilities are at advanced stages of construction.
He disclosed that the project will feature Nigeria’s first 400-metre zipline, while supporting infrastructure including rotundas, a food court, public conveniences and an experience centre are nearing completion. Construction of a staircase leading visitors to the famous Ngwo Cave and Waterfall is also progressing rapidly, while the support columns for the zipline have been completed and are awaiting the installation of cable systems.
Describing the development as a major milestone for tourism in the state, Uko said Enugu is embarking on one of the most ambitious tourism infrastructure programmes in Nigeria.
Beyond the Ngwo Pine Forest, he revealed that the first phase of the tourism project includes more than 700 metres of canopy walkway at Nsude, a 5-kilometre cable car linking Okpatu Hills to Awhum Waterfalls, another canopy walkway at Awhum, and the construction of the 70-metre Cross of Hope at Okpatu Hill.
The projects are designed to create a network of adventure tourism attractions capable of drawing domestic and international visitors while stimulating local economic activities.
Uko also outlined plans for a second phase of the tourism expansion, which will commence immediately after completion of the initial projects.
The next phase will include the development of a water park at Akwuke Beach, a luxury resort at Ovu Lake, and the Atakwu Wildlife Project, alongside the development of several waterfalls and lakes across the state into tourism destinations.
According to him, the investments are expected to significantly boost tourism, create employment opportunities, attract private investment and strengthen Enugu’s position as a premier destination for nature-based and adventure tourism in Nigeria.
The projects align with the state government’s vision of leveraging its rich natural landscapes, forests, hills, caves, waterfalls and cultural heritage to diversify the economy through sustainable tourism development.
