FIC REPORT (ABIA STATE) – The Federal Government’s National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker in Umuahia are receiving major attention under the Abia State Government’s renewed drive to preserve the State’s historical heritage and develop its tourism potential.
The Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing the public on major decisions and developments arising from the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR.
Kanu said the National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker, both important landmarks in Nigeria’s history, have been designated among Abia’s State Monuments, alongside Government College, Umuahia.
He explained that the designation was aimed at strengthening the preservation of Abia’s historical and cultural heritage, promoting tourism and positioning the sites for wider national and international recognition, including potential recognition as UNESCO Heritage Sites.
The Commissioner disclosed that work on the retrofitting of the Ojukwu Bunker and National War Museum has reached approximately 80 per cent completion, with both projects expected to be concluded before the end of 2026.
According to him, the completed projects will enhance the preservation of the historical sites, improve visitors’ experience and further unlock their tourism and economic potential.
The National War Museum, established to preserve Nigeria’s military history and artefacts, and the Ojukwu Bunker, associated with the Nigerian Civil War era, remain significant historical landmarks in Umuahia and important components of Nigeria’s national heritage.
Kanu further disclosed that the State Government was erecting monuments at strategic locations across Abia to preserve its heritage and honour heroes and heroines.
One of the monuments is dedicated to the heroines of the 1929 Aba Women’s Riot, in recognition of their courage, resilience, resistance and leadership.
He added that the State Executive Council had also designated Ibom Waterfall in Arochukwu and Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi, Bende Local Government Area, as State Natural Monuments, while Aba has been designated a Creative and Innovative City in recognition of its commercial, industrial and creative significance.
The Commissioner said the initiatives reflected the administration’s commitment to preserving Abia’s history, strengthening cultural identity and creating new opportunities through tourism and the creative economy.
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC FIC Umuahia Abia State.
15th September, 2026.
