In a significant move to boost tourism and economic development in Rivers State, the Landmark Group has secured waterfront land in Port Harcourt to redevelop the long-neglected Port Harcourt Tourist Beach. This initiative, undertaken in partnership with the Rivers State Government, aims to transform the area into a premier leisure, hospitality, and tourism destination.
Project Overview
The redevelopment project, named the Landmark Port Harcourt Leisure Resort, is set to commence in the first quarter of 2025, with phased completions expected to begin by the fourth quarter of the same year. The resort will be the first of several prime tourism destinations that Landmark Group plans to develop across West Africa, with a significant number located within Nigeria.
Economic and Social Impact
This ambitious project is anticipated to have a substantial impact on the local economy by:
- Employment Generation: Creating numerous direct and indirect job opportunities during and after construction.
- SME Growth: Fostering the development of small and medium-sized enterprises through increased demand for goods and services.
- Revenue Enhancement: Contributing to diversified internally generated revenue (IGR) for Rivers State, thereby boosting economic development.
Government Support
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed strong support for the project, emphasizing its potential to revitalize the state’s tourism sector. The government has already initiated preparatory work, including sandfilling of swampy sections of the beach, to facilitate the redevelopment.
Strategic Expansion
This development follows Landmark Group’s recent announcement to relocate its Nigerian headquarters and expand operations into other African countries and Nigerian states. The decision was influenced by the demolition of the Landmark Beach Resort in Lagos to make way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, resulting in an estimated loss of $80 million.
Future Prospects
The Landmark Port Harcourt Leisure Resort is poised to become a must-visit destination in Africa, showcasing the best of Rivers State and driving socio-economic growth. The project aligns with Landmark Group’s broader vision to establish a network of iconic leisure destinations across West Africa, promoting intra-Africa tourism and highlighting the region’s untapped potential.
In summary, the collaboration between Landmark Group and the Rivers State Government to redevelop the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach signifies a pivotal step towards revitalizing the tourism landscape in the region, with promising economic and social benefits on the horizon.
