The Imo State Government yesterday announced it has embarked on a total rehabilitation and reconstruction at the Imo Concorde Hotel.
The prestigious hotel, a landmark project in Owerri located on Concorde Boulevard, off Port Harcourt Road, is one Hospitality centre considered to be best among the rest in the entire South-East until recently.
Recall that earlier this year, Governor Hope Uzodimma announced the formalization of a momentous partnership through the signing of an MoU with Hassan Allam Holding and Punz Limited for construction of a 200-Room Imo Marriot Hotel in Owerri.
Many Igbos and Imolites in particular, saw the coming of
the 200-Room Imo Marriot Hotel in Owerri, as a total move to abandone the Imo Concorde Hotel, but the government swiftly back then insisted that both hospitality centres can coexist in Owerri to serve everyone.
South East Reporters gathered that Marriot Hotel in Owerri is facilitated by a PPP-model, and the Governor said back then that the endeavour is slated for completion within a swift 24-month timeframe.
The project receives financial backing from esteemed institutions such as Afrexim Bank and Fidelity Bank Plc, with the State Government serving as an equity partner.
The Imo Governor while speaking on Marriot Hotel in Owerri said that embracing this initiative showcases thw commitment to the expansion of our hospitality industry, thereby catalyzing economic growth and prosperity.
“This collaborative effort epitomizes our dedication to driving sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for our citizens,” he said.
With the government still showing interest in Concord, South East Reporters gathered that the current move aims to revamp the hotel’s facilities, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and functionality, thereby returning it to its past glory as the most outstanding hospitality destination and 5-Star Pearl of the East, to compete with Marriot Hotel in Owerri when completed.
Barrister Jerry Egemba, the Imo State Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture said that the work is focused on revitalizing the hotel, not destroying it as many may have alleged.
He said that the Imo State government’s efforts will ensure that the Concorde Hotel regains its former glory and continues to be a beacon of hospitality and luxury in Owerri.
South East Reporters learnt that the scope of work includes total scraping of every single old stuff and replacing them with all brand new finishings, replacement of doors and furniture, upgrading hotel amenities, and electrical works such as the supply and installation of three 500 KVA generators and one RMU.
Additionally, the project encompasses the air conditioning system, plumbing works, sewage and water treatment plants, ELV works, fire fighting works, surveillance systems, industrial kitchen, lifts, external works, maintenance, and repairs of existing roads and parking areas.
It is equally gathered that other aspects of the project include the renovation of the swimming pool, changing rooms, gym house, MEP, and finishing works.
Information available shows that the existing bar and village bar will also be renovated, along with the beautification and landscaping of the surroundings, as well as the tennis and basketball courts, outdoor kitchen, and band stand/sitting area will be renovated to standard.
The Commissioner said that the rehabilitation project underscores the Imo State Government’s commitment to revitalizing critical infrastructure and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the state’s landmarks.
South East Reporters can confirm that the rehabilitation of Concorde Hotel Owerri is coming up when the Enugu State Government led by Peter Mba is equally rehabilitating the prestigious Hotel Presidential, Enugu that has been under ruins for the past 20 years.
