…Commends Gov Otti for reviving Aba’s flagship hospitality facility
Our Reporter, Abuja
The Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD Nigeria) has urged the Abia State Government to ensure full transparency and accountability in the ongoing redevelopment of the Enyimba International Hotel, Aba.
While commending Governor Alex Otti for initiating the revival of the long-abandoned hotel — described as a flagship hospitality project expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate Abia’s economy — the civil society group stressed the need for public disclosure of key project details.
In a statement issued in Aba and signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD raised concerns over what it called “grey areas” surrounding the partnership structure, cost, and procurement process of the project.
The group noted that while the state government had earlier announced a partnership with Radisson Blu, recent reports suggest possible involvement of other firms, yet without any public record detailing the exact structure, duration, or financial obligations of the parties involved.
FENRAD also queried the wide cost range of between $25 million and $50 million quoted in public reports, describing it as inconsistent with standard procurement principles. It called on the government to publish the actual contract sum, procurement method, and evaluation criteria used in selecting the developer.
It further demanded that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or concession agreement be made public, including details of equity participation, revenue-sharing, and project timelines.
As an environmental rights group, FENRAD also emphasized compliance with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations and labour standards, urging government to ensure community engagement given the project’s location within Aba’s commercial hub.
“The Enyimba Hotel represents more than a physical structure; it symbolizes Aba’s commercial heritage and the promise of renewed investor confidence in Abia State,” the statement read.
FENRAD reaffirmed its commitment to continue monitoring the project under its civic oversight mandate, in line with the Freedom of Information Act, Public Procurement Act, and Abia State Fiscal Responsibility Law.
