Our Reporter, Abuja
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State on Thursday unveiled the newly reconstructed Hotel Presidential, describing the project as a revival of the state’s pride and a bold statement of its readiness for global business.
The iconic hotel, originally built 62 years ago under the leadership of the late Premier of Eastern Nigeria, Dr. Michael Okpara, had been abandoned for about 15 years before its rehabilitation by the present administration.
Speaking at the unveiling, Governor Mbah said the event marked more than the reopening of a hotel but the rebirth of Enugu’s confidence and a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to recover dormant assets and convert them into engines of growth.
“For about 15 years, this glorious edifice stood in ruin, an affront to our pride. When we came into office, we made a strong pledge to recover what belongs to our people, to convert dormant assets into productive assets, and to turn liabilities into engines of growth. That is why this unveiling is more than opening the doors of a hotel; it is the reopening of Enugu’s confidence,” Mbah declared.
The governor noted that world-class standards were adopted for the reconstruction to align with his administration’s vision of positioning Enugu as a preferred destination for investment, tourism, and conferencing.
“Together with the International Conference Centre, the 345-room ICC Hotel under construction, and Enugu Air, this project positions Enugu as the Conferencing Capital of Africa and a hub for tourism, investment, and opportunity,” he added.
Governor Mbah commended Amber Hospitality, managers of 12 successful hospitality brands across the globe, for bringing their expertise to Enugu. He also praised Dilworth, the contractors, as well as the state’s Commissioners of Works and Infrastructure and of Culture and Tourism, for their contributions to the successful delivery of the project.
“This is not just about a hotel. It is about confidence, jobs, pride, and the spirit of a people who know that tomorrow is here,” the governor said.
