The Enugu State Government has signed a landmark deal with the Landmark Africa Group to transform the iconic Nike Lake Resort into a premier destination for tourism, business, and hospitality.
The agreement, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), grants Landmark the management and operational responsibilities for the resort. As part of the deal, the state government is contributing to the resort as an asset, while Landmark will invest ₦10 billion in the first phase of the project to restore the facility to its former glory.
Governor Peter Mbah described the partnership as a significant step towards achieving his administration’s goal of growing Enugu’s economy to $30 billion within six years.
“Landmark Group is a known name in the hospitality sub-sector. Your reputation and experience precede you. So, I was glad when I became aware that you indicated interest to come and manage and run the Nike Lake Resort,” Mbah said during the signing ceremony at the Government House in Enugu.
He emphasized the importance of the Nike Lake Resort to the state’s tourism and economic development, describing it as “iconic” and integral to the administration’s vision of making Enugu a premier destination for investment and tourism.
Governor Mbah reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure to support the partnership.
“This year alone, we have earmarked ₦800 billion to provide various forms of infrastructure – physical, social, and digital. We are spending hugely to ensure that this place becomes the premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living,” he said.
He highlighted the ongoing dualisation of the Enugu-Opi-Nsukka Road, a project aimed at boosting ease of doing business and attracting more investors to the state.
Paul Onwuanibe, Founder and CEO of Landmark Africa Group, expressed excitement about the partnership, praising the governor’s efforts in improving infrastructure and security in Enugu.
“I know this is one of the states that not only has the position as a good governance state but also one that has made great progress in a short period under this administration. We want to be greatly part of it and part of that transition that takes Nike Lake to its past glory,” Onwuanibe said.
He assured that the company’s investment would bring significant economic benefits to the state, including job creation, increased tax revenue, and a boost in tourism, with a target of bringing two million visitors annually to Enugu.
“We intend to invest over ₦10 billion in the first phase of the partnership. From the employment perspective, supply chain and value chain improvements, tax contributions, and increased international visitors, this will be a big win for Enugu State,” Onwuanibe added.
