Enugu State to Unveil Nigeria’s First Zipline and Africa’s Longest Canopy Walkway

L-R: Enugu State Culture and Tourism Commissioner, Dame Ugochi Madueke; Executive Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mba; Tourism Consultant, Amb. Ikechi Uko; Former Mrs.Tourism United Nations, Ebele Enemchukwu

Enugu State is gearing up to become Nigeria’s new tourism hub with the unveiling of ambitious projects, including the country’s first zipline and the longest canopy walkway in Africa. The state government has approved a budget of over N13 billion for the first phase of these projects, signaling a significant leap forward in the region’s tourism development.

The key project in the first phase is the Nsude Pyramid Canopy Walkway, which will span 600 meters, making it the longest in Nigeria and the first in the Southeast. Starting at Ugwu Uto, the walkway will slope 500 meters down to the site of the ancient Nsude pyramids. The area will be enhanced with scenic rondavels, while a lighthouse and observatory with a restaurant will be situated atop a hill at 530 meters above sea level, offering stunning panoramic views.

In addition to the canopy walkway, Enugu will soon feature Nigeria’s first-ever zipline. Stretching 300 meters across the picturesque Ngwo Pine Forest, this new attraction will complement the forest’s already growing popularity for photoshoots. Plans also include the addition of rotundas and floral displays to enhance the overall visitor experience.

The state will also be home to the Cross of Hope at Okpatu Hill, which will become the tallest cross in Africa. Standing 50 meters tall atop a 15-story building, the cross will reach a total height of 630 meters above sea level, providing a striking visual landmark.

Awhum Waterfall, one of the most famous natural sites in the state, will also undergo significant enhancements. A new canopy walkway and boardwalk are set to further elevate the mystique and appeal of the waterfall, drawing even more visitors to the site.

The tourism blueprint also includes plans for Akwuke Beach and the Atakkwu Waterpark, which will feature experience centers, food courts, and renewable energy solutions. Ovu Lake Golf and Resort, equipped with a boat jetty, will be another prime addition, hosting world-class events and offering a unique leisure experience.

In early 2024, Enugu State hired tourism consultants Ambassador Ikechi Uko and Queen Ebele Enemchukwu to evaluate key tourist sites across the state. Their recommendations helped secure approval for the first phase of development, which is expected to cost N30 billion. The second phase will include a cable car system connecting Okpatu Hill to Awhum Waterfall and further developments in locations like Ezimo, Oji River, Nsukka, and Ezeagu.

These developments are a cornerstone of Governor Peter Mba’s broader economic vision to increase Enugu’s GDP from $3 billion to $30 billion by 2027, with tourism playing a central role in that transformation. The state aims to attract 6 million visitors by 2027, driving economic growth and job creation.

Tourism consultant Ikechi Uko praised the state’s commitment, stating, “This is the most ambitious tourism investment by any state since Dr. Donald Duke’s tenure in Cross River. Enugu is undergoing a transformation that will reshape the state’s tourism sector and leave a lasting legacy for the nation.”

With significant upgrades to infrastructure, new conference centers, the Enugu Air Project, and revamps of landmarks like Nike Lake Landmark and Hotel Presidential, Enugu is positioning itself as a major player in the global tourism market. Governor Mba’s mantra, “Tomorrow is here,” underscores the state’s ambitious trajectory toward becoming Nigeria’s tourism capital.