Hotel operators in Enugu metropolis have reported significant financial gains from the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) National Conference taking place in the city. On Tuesday, several hotel managers revealed that their establishments were fully booked ahead of the five-day event, which commenced on August 23rd, 2025.

Mrs. Priscilla Emehelu, who manages a hotel on Nza Street in Enugu, described the surge in bookings as unprecedented outside of festive seasons such as Christmas and New Year. She noted that while Enugu has traditionally been a preferred destination for returnees—particularly those arriving from abroad who often stay for up to a month—the recent security challenges in the South East had previously dampened hotel patronage. However, the NBA conference brought a remarkable influx of visitors. According to Mrs. Emehelu, nearly all hotels in Independence Layout were fully occupied, causing the overflow of guests to seek accommodations in other parts of the city. She expressed hope for more such conferences to boost the hospitality sector.

Oliver Ezigwu, a staff member at a hotel in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Enugu, confirmed that bookings were made well in advance. He emphasized that despite the high demand, the hotel management chose not to increase room rates and instructed staff to provide top-notch service to visitors. Ezigwu highlighted Enugu’s growing reputation as a hub for national and international conferences, with even hotels in the Golf Estate area experiencing increased patronage.

Mr. Anyone Agu, former Chief Executive of Enugu Small and Medium Enterprises, commended Governor Peter Mbah’s efforts in revitalizing the state’s infrastructure and economy. He praised the rehabilitation of the Enugu State International Conference Center (ESICC), which is hosting the NBA conference, calling it a key milestone for Enugu’s city and state branding, tourism revenue, and investor confidence.

Security consultant and retired police officer Mr. Eugene Eze attributed the success of the event to the city’s improved safety measures, suggesting that enhanced security played a role in the NBA’s decision to hold the conference in Enugu. He also highlighted government efforts to improve water supply and noted that other major events, such as the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ national conference, had also recently been hosted in the city, further attracting high-profile visitors.

The NBA’s national president, Mr. Afam Osuigwe, SAN, had earlier announced that the conference was expected to draw over 20,000 participants, underlining the scale and importance of the event for Enugu.