We are very aware of the cardinal significance of tourism in the socio-economic life of any society pertaining the development of such society and Gov Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the executive governor of Enugu State has once again demonstrated that he is ready to tap optimally from the area of tourism and hospitality management in the state through the massive construction of huge sculptures at the Unity Park, strategically located at the centre of the town, in proximity to the Okpara Square of all places.
Arriving at the place that was formally desolate and more like a forest with the possibility of inhabiting wild and nocturnal creatures, one would be stunned and marveled at gigantic structure of a lion of more than 30-fit tall, a large rooster, an irrepressible studying figure, a passionate footballer and other spectacular sculptures.
The most prominent among the sculptural edifices is the lion which is known for its ferocity and majesty, standing literally and elegantly as the proverbial king of the forest with its eyes eternally vigilant and hypnotizing. Its immense, muscular, stealthy and majestic structure endowing it with an intimidating appearance. GOV IFEANYI UGWUANYI must have been aware that the potential onlookers and tourists would be imagine that figuratively that the lion as a territorial animal will not tolerate trespasses lightly. What a symbol of eternal vigilance and security?
Furthermore, Gburugburu knew before embarking on the project that the lion’s ability to be at the top of the food chain with the ultimate killer instincts led to the adoption of the lion as a symbol and insignia denoting power, royalty, aggression and might.
As one moves a few steps away from the sculpture of the lion, he would be greeted by a great sculpture of a rooster; awash with wondrous artistry and aesthetics. Like a life cock, the sculpture guards the general area where his hens are nesting and attacks other roosters encroaching his territory. With our native intelligence we know that during the daytime that a rooster often sits on a high perch off the ground, serving as a lookout for his group and will not hesitate to sound a distinctive alarm call if predators are nearby, frequently crowing to assert its territory.
In fact, one would not effectively appreciate ENUGU Unity Park by reading it in black and white until he or she takes out the time to enjoy the leisure inherent in visiting the place that would eventually place ENUGU STATE at the hub of tourism in this side of the globe.
GOV IFEANYI UGWUANYI must be working with sound technocrats blessed with high sense of arts and economic viability to undertake such symbolic project.
Truly, Enugu Start Unity Park is a sight to behold.
ENUGU STATE IS IN THE HANDS OF GOD.
Written by
HON.MRS. BIBIAN ANEKWE.
ENUGU DI N’AKA CHUKWU MOVEMENT (DG.)
