Concorde Hotel Under Renovation by 3R Administration

 Concorde Hotel Owerri: Renovation Under Governor Hope Uzodimma

By Douglas Princemola 

Concorde Hotel in Owerri, built in 1979, was once a prominent destination in Imo State and the South-East region. With 245 rooms, it served business travelers and tourists. Over time, it experienced neglect and deterioration, reducing its role in the state's hospitality sector.

Governor Hope Uzodimma initiated a plan to renovate the hotel. The project focused on restoring the structure, modernizing its facilities, and making it suitable for long-term commercial use. The state government contracted Roycon Engineering to carry out the rehabilitation.

The renovation includes work on structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, air conditioning, elevators, and safety systems. It also involves upgrading recreational facilities such as the gym, pool, and sports areas, as well as improving sewage treatment, water systems, and security installations.

To manage the hotel after renovation, the Imo State Government entered a 25-year agreement with the Hilton Group. Under this arrangement, the hotel will operate as Concorde Hilton Hotel, Owerri, once completed.

The estimated cost of the renovation is about 19 billion naira. The state has paid an initial 30 percent, with additional payments scheduled. The renovation was originally planned to take 12 months, though the contractor aims to complete it within nine months.

The project addresses the longstanding decline of the hotel. The government's approach includes both infrastructure work and a shift to professional hotel management. The goal is to make the hotel operational and economically viable.

The reopening of the hotel is expected to support business travel, conferences, and tourism. It may also lead to new employment opportunities and increased activity in the local hospitality sector.

Additional projects, such as the development of the Nworie River beach, are being carried out alongside the hotel renovation to support tourism and leisure services in the state.

As of mid-2025, the hotel renovation was reported to be nearly complete, with plans to formally open the facility once final work is done.

Governor Uzodimma’s administration views the renovation of Concorde Hotel as part of its infrastructure and economic programs. If completed as planned, the project may contribute to renewed commercial activity within Owerri and the surrounding area.