Ejiro Efenudu
Landmark Africa, a leading real estate and hospitality development firm, has officially commenced the long-awaited renovation of the iconic Nike Lake Resort in Enugu State. This follows the signing of a N10 billion joint venture agreement with the Enugu State Government to transform the resort into a world-class hospitality and tourism destination.
The redevelopment marks a major step in Governor Peter Mbah’s vision to reposition Enugu as a prime investment and tourism hub in southeastern Nigeria. Once completed, the revamped Nike Lake Resort is expected to significantly boost local tourism, create thousands of jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
A New Era for a Historic Destination
Originally built in 1982, Nike Lake Resort has long held a nostalgic value for both local residents and visitors from across Nigeria. However, in recent years, the resort suffered from neglect and aging infrastructure. The Enugu State Government, determined to revitalize the state’s tourism potential, sought a credible private sector partner — ultimately selecting Landmark Africa for the ambitious transformation.
According to Landmark Africa’s founder and CEO, Mr. Paul Onwuanibe, the renovation will include a full-scale redesign of guest rooms, restaurants, conference halls, outdoor recreation facilities, and the surrounding lakefront. A new amphitheatre, water park, eco-lodges, and boat rides are among the features being introduced.
“We are committed to restoring the Nike Lake Resort as a beacon of hospitality excellence and a magnet for international and domestic tourism,” Onwuanibe stated during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Governor Mbah Commends Investment Partnership
Governor Peter Mbah, who attended the ceremony, expressed confidence in the project’s impact on Enugu’s economic revitalization agenda. He reiterated the state’s openness to strategic public-private partnerships that align with the administration’s vision of transforming Enugu into a $30 billion economy.
“This joint venture is not just about hospitality. It’s about creating jobs, driving investment, and unlocking the full value of our tourism assets,” said Governor Mbah.
He added that the state would ensure a transparent and enabling environment for investors willing to partner with the government on major infrastructure and development projects.
Economic and Social Impact
The Nike Lake Resort renovation project is projected to generate over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs during and after construction. It is also expected to attract both leisure and business travelers, further positioning Enugu as a major stop on Nigeria’s emerging tourism map.
Landmark Africa will manage the resort under a long-term lease arrangement and is working with local contractors and artisans to ensure community participation in the renovation process.
Tourism experts have praised the move, calling it a “model for sustainable tourism redevelopment” in Nigeria. They also noted that it mirrors similar successful public-private partnerships seen in countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and Ghana.
