AKSG Unveils Plans To Diversify Its Economy By Investing In Tourism

UYO
The Akwa Ibom government has unveiled plans to diversify its economy by investing in tourism to create jobs and boost revenue.
The commissioner for culture and tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, announced this in Uyo during World Heritage Day, themed: “Heritage Under Threat From Disaster and Conflict.”
Udofia revealed that the state adopted a local theme, “Cultural Heritage and Economic Development: Optimising the Tourism Component of the ARISE Agenda,” aligning with the Gov Umo Eno’s development blueprint.
He stated, “The ARISE Agenda, spearheaded by our visionary governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., recognises the critical role of culture and tourism in driving economic growth and development and is taking bold steps toward repositioning tourism in Akwa Ibom.”
The commissioner highlighted achievements of the governor, including the completion of the ARISE Park, the International Conference Centre, ongoing maintenance of sports facilities, and upgrades to the Ibom Hotel.
He added that Akwa Ibom’s cultural heritage could generate more revenue than oil, noting, “Our heritage sites, festivals, and traditions are not only a source of pride but also a potent tool for economic development.”
Udofia said that investing in tourism would create jobs, revenue, preserve cultural heritage and promote entrepreneurship.
The keynote presenter, Dr Victor Ekpuk, from Washington, DC, emphasised the state’s diverse heritage, citing festivals such as Usoro Usuk Udia and Ntuk Una Idi.
Ekpuk, who virtually presented his address, urged documentation to preserve the assets, stating, “Not much has been written on our culture even though our cultural artefacts are all over the world in different museums.”
He also recommended the reviving of the raffia industry in Ikot Ekpene as a tourism driver.