Enugu is transforming the ancient Nsude Pyramids with a slew of projects aimed at enhancing its cultural and eco-tourism appeal. The monument is located at Nsude, a quiet rural community in Udi LGA of Enugu State.
The Peter Mbah-led government recently announced an imminent construction of Nigeria’s longest canopy walkway and a slew of other tourist infrastructure around the Pyramids. It is a 600-metre canopy walkway that will become the longest in Nigeria and first of its kind in the South-East. The walkway begins at Ugwu Uto, a scenic hilltop location, and descends over 500 metres to the base of the ancient Pyramids.
Also included are a slew of support projects to deepen the visitor’s travel experience while maintaining the natural integrity of the landscape. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, explained the nature of the support projects at a briefing.
“There will be rondavels around the hill. A lighthouse and an observatory with a restaurant will be located on the hilltop at about 530 metres above sea level,” she said.
Why it matters
This project exposes Nsude Pyramids, a most fascinating yet underexplored historical landmark in Nigeria that highlights the Southeast Region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Nsude Pyramids are series of ancient clay structures arranged in concentric circles and resembling smaller versions of the Egyptian pyramids. The structures are made from mud and clay, stacked in diminishing circular layers.
Centuries ago, the Nsude Pyramids served as religious and ceremonial altars for the ancestors of the Nsude people.
Their spiritual and historical significance continues to attract scholars and heritage enthusiasts. For curious eco-tourists, the site offers a rare combination of archaeology, mystique, and natural beauty.
Tied to a broader agenda
When completed and opened, this project will create new jobs in hospitality, introduce guiding services, boost local transportation, and energize craft markets. Smart farmers, food vendors, and artisans in surrounding communities will quickly exploit opportunities to supply goods and services to a growing stream of tourists.
The project, while focused on enhancing tourism, is also tightly linked to the Enugu State Government’s broader strategy to diversify the economy through culture and creative industries. By placing the pyramids at the center of the development, the government emphasizes the importance of heritage preservation while driving economic growth.
“This is not just about building infrastructure,” said Dame Rita Mbah, Executive Chairman of Enugu State Tourism Board. “It’s about giving life to the stories of our people, creating jobs, and opening rural areas like Nsude to sustainable development.”
A coming standout attraction
With its blend of ecological charm, historical intrigue, and state-led investment, Nsude is poised to become a standout attraction in Nigeria’s tourism landscape. For eco-tourists and cultural explorers, the upcoming Nsude Canopy Walkway and the storied pyramids beneath it offer a journey into both the earth and the soul of Igboland.
The Nsude pyramid project is a fascinating development. Governor Peter Mbah is moving mountains in developing Enugu State. The beauty of his approach is the holistic and multifaceted nature of his developmental strides. We also appreciate the labour of the indefatigable Commissioner Dame Madueke. May God bless our Governor and his lieutenants.