Commission concessions Enugu museum for N2.9bn

The National Commission for Museums and Monument (NCMM), has signed an undertaking with, Engr. Obinna Mba, of Avaco Construction and Logistics Limited for the development of the National Museum of Unity, Enugu as part of efforts to make it functional.

This was disclosed by, the Curator of the museum, Mr Duru Aloysius, in Enugu, adding that the Public Private Partnership (PPP), was worth N2.9 billion, with a duration of One and half years.

He refuted the rumours making the rounds that the museum land has been sold to the land speculators in the state.

“This is to intimate all stakeholders and public on the benefits and importance of the project to the government, investor and the general, ” he said.

The curator said that due process was followed toward the award and execution of the concession project.

He said that the Director General of NCMM, Prof. Abba Tijani made a request for optimal utilisation of Enugu museum land to the Infrastructures Concessionary and Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the body saddled with such responsibility.

Duru said that the paucity of funds has made it practically impossible to develop and build the necessary infrastructure needed for optimal operations hence the need for concessioning approach.

“When completed the museum will be equipped will internationally accepted, amphi theatre, museum kitchen, craft center, auditorium, and children’s park among others, ” he said..

He revealed that there were pressures from the high and mighty in the state to encroach on the museum land which prompted the Director General to seek the intervention of ICRC.

He also said that a part portion of the land would be leased to the investor to develop guest houses in line with museum specifications to recoup his N2.9 billion investment for 25 years.

“This is with an option for another 25 years if need be, ” he said.

He said that discussions were ongoing to determine the faith of those currently doing various businesses in the place.

Speaking, the Chairman of business operators on the premises, Mr Kingsley Ezeyin, said that the one-month notice given to them by the contractor was not inadequate

Ezeyin, who retired as Assistant Director in the museum pleaded with the management of the museum and the contractor to extend the deadline given to them to vacate.

“This will enable us to prepare ourselves in finding a better place, ” he said.