Chime Harps On Recreation

Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State has urged Nigerians
to engage in recreational activities, with a view to reducing stress and
improving family values.

The governor who made the call in Enugu during the
inauguration of the multi-million naira Oakland Amusement Park advised the
people to always find time to unwind after a hard day’s work.

The governor, who was represented by Mr Joe Mamel, the
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, said that tourism was a major revenue
earner for many countries of the world, adding that the newly inaugurated park
would further boost the state’s socio-economic development.

“We want to make Enugu a destination point for tourists in
the country. We are encouraging the private sector to invest in the tourism
sector as we have provided the enabling environment for them to operate,’’ he
said.

Chime announced that the state government would organise a
cultural festival between December 13 and December 22, as part of efforts to
boost culture and tourism in the state.

While commending the owners of Oakland for establishing the
park in the state, the governor pledged to partner with them and other
investors in efforts to develop the state.

Speaking, Mr Odega Jideonwo, the Managing Director of
Oakland Amusement Park, said that he embarked on the project because of the
lack of recreational facilities in the state.

“I decided to do something that will promote family values
because this is something that is lacking in our society,“ he said and
commended Chime for making the state investor-friendly and for the
infrastructural development of the state.

The Tide reports that the entertainment facilities at the
park include a roller coaster, bumper cars, indoor games and “carousel’’.

Our correspondent also reports the governor’s representative
and other dignitaries undertook a tour of the amusement park’s facilities.