Owerri is preparing for a major comeback in Nigeria’s hospitality map as the legendary Concorde Hotel undergoes a complete transformation, re-emerging as the Concorde-Hilton Hotel, Owerri. The multi-million facelift, set for completion in October 2025, is not just about refurbishing a building, but about restoring the pride of Imo State and igniting its tourism economy.
Commissioned 42 years ago, the Concorde Hotel was once the crown jewel of Eastern Nigeria — a magnet for tourists, political elites, and business leaders. But over the decades, neglect and decay reduced it to a shadow of its former glory. Now, under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma, the structure has been stripped to its core and rebuilt with vision and international expertise.
The reborn hotel will feature 245 luxury rooms, with 35 rooms per floor, three ultra-modern conference halls, a nightclub, and a rich ecosystem designed to boost nightlife, tourism, and business activities in Owerri.
“This renovation is about more than prestige,” Governor Uzodimma said at the unveiling. “It is about jobs, tourism, and restoring Imo as a premier destination for business and leisure.” Already, construction has created hundreds of jobs, and when completed, the hotel is expected to employ thousands more across hospitality and tourism sectors.
The real game-changer, however, is the partnership with Hilton Group. The globally renowned hospitality giant will bring its international service standards, global booking platforms, and premium reputation to Owerri — a move that analysts say could permanently shift the hospitality landscape in Nigeria’s Southeast.
Residents are thrilled. Jonathan Amadi, an Imo indigene, said, “The poor state of Concorde Hotel was embarrassing to us. We’re glad the governor is fixing it.” Another resident, Ebere Uzoh, added, “Some governors would have sold it, but Uzodimma chose to restore it. This shows true leadership.”
Hospitality experts believe the Concorde-Hilton will become a hub for conferences, tourism, and international partnerships. With the Museum of West African Arts opening in neighboring Edo and Nigeria’s creative economy expanding, Owerri’s new hotel could benefit from a wider regional tourism revival.
For Owerri, it’s a renaissance, a statement of pride, and a reminder that when leadership meets vision, even abandoned landmarks can rise again as world-class icons.
