Landmark Group has announced its acquisition of prime waterfront land in Port Harcourt, in partnership with the Rivers State Government, to redevelop the iconic Port Harcourt Tourist Beach into a world-class leisure, hospitality, and tourism destination.
The news, confirmed by Elsie Ogianyo, Brand and Corporate Communications Manager for Landmark Group, comes shortly after CEO Paul Onwuanibe revealed the company’s expansion plans into two African countries, three Nigerian states, and the relocation of its headquarters from Lagos.
According to the statement, Onwuanibe expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting Landmark Group’s commitment to bringing a unique and unforgettable leisure experience to Port Harcourt. “We are excited to create unmatchable and unforgettable leisure experiences in Port Harcourt by leveraging our international expertise and local knowledge from Lagos in providing exceptional waterfront leisure experiences,” Onwuanibe said.
He emphasized that the initiative is not just about reviving a historic resort but also about building a lasting legacy that will showcase the best of Rivers State, drive socio-economic growth, and position the resort as a must-visit destination in Africa.
Dr. Israel Lebura Ngbuelo, Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, voiced strong support for the project, noting its potential to position the state as a leading tourism hub on the African continent.
Redevelopment of the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025, with phased completions expected as early as the fourth quarter of the same year. The project is anticipated to significantly impact the local economy by creating jobs, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and bolstering the local supply chain.
Furthermore, it is expected to generate diversified internally generated revenue for Rivers State, contributing to the region’s economic growth.
The Landmark Port Harcourt Leisure Resort will be the first of several premier tourism destinations that Landmark Group plans to develop across West Africa, with half of these projects based in Nigeria. The company’s broader vision includes establishing a network of iconic leisure destinations throughout the region, which will foster intra-Africa tourism and highlight the region’s untapped tourism potential.
Landmark Group’s commitment to expanding its operations follows the April 2024 demolition of the Landmark Beach Resort in Lagos, an event that led to an estimated loss of $80 million. Despite the setback, Onwuanibe sees it as a catalyst for diversification.
He revealed that Landmark Africa has received interest from governors in 12 states across Nigeria, with three states selected for new ventures after a thorough six-month evaluation.
Landmark Africa also plans to move its events and tourism platform out of Nigeria. Although the company has not received compensation for the demolition, Onwuanibe emphasized the importance of Landmark Africa to the local economy, having contributed over N10 billion in taxes the previous year.
He also criticized changes to the planned Coastal Road route, which was originally intended to run in front of the resort.
