Aniekan Umanah
At exactly 4:05 p.m., the convoy of Governor Umo Eno rolled into the sprawling ARISE Resort , a bold tourism project rising from what was once a barren expanse of gullies.
The Governor arrived aboard a black Mercedes Benz VIP Sprinter 2500 Executive bus, accompanied by distinguished guests and stakeholders in this unfolding story of transformation.
Dressed in a well-cut navy blue caftan, paired with blue Angelo Galasso loafers, adorned with pearly ornaments and accessories, and crowned with a native cap boldly inscribed ARISE and Renewed Hope, Eno cut a stylish yet purposeful figure as he stepped onto the grounds of the resort, a dream taking shape before his eyes.
He was joined by Mr. Thomas Larmerna, CEO of Digital Learning Network, Chicago, and Mr. John Akpan, the company’s Executive Vice President, who are exploring opportunities to establish a children’s computer manufacturing venture in Uyo. With him also were Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; Commissioner for Information, Elder Aniekan Umanah; Delivery Advisor for Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh; and other top officials.
On ground to receive the Governor was Chief Faysal Harb, Managing Director of Bulletine Construction, the project contractor, who offered detailed explanations at each stop. He assured that construction is advancing steadily, with test runs slated for September ahead of full commissioning in December 2025.
The inspection began at the Golf House, anchoring the 9-hole course nestled amid landscaped greens and scenic walkways. The Governor scrutinised progress, asked technical questions and gave directives. At the Banquet Hall, where construction was in earnest, he directed that a central media control system and well-appointed breakout rooms be included, stressing that global standards must define every aspect of the project.
The tour continued through the villa section where 45 luxury villas are rising, and the Children’s Playground, designed to include a café for ice cream and snacks, ensuring a truly family-centred experience. At the Sporting Arena, a comprehensive wellness and leisure hub came into focus, salon, gym, spa, indoor and outdoor sports courts, football pitch, tennis and squash courts, volleyball, bowling alleys and spectator terraces.
The Governor also inspected the 20-unit guest apartment complex, comprising 15 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments with finishing touches aligned to global hospitality standards. Beyond these, the resort features artificial lakes with floating bars, continental and African restaurants, shopping outlets, a fully-equipped Police post and modern medical facilities , making ARISE Resort not just a tourism attraction but a self-sufficient city within a city.
Addressing the press, Eno expressed joy at the tourism marvel emerging from over 70 hectares of once-desolate gullies. “This is a bold testament to turning desolation into destination — a forgotten space into an unforgettable experience,” he declared.
Visiting investors were equally impressed. Mr. Thomas Larmerna described the resort as “a signpost for tourism in Nigeria, with an appeal that rivals global leisure destinations.” Mr. John Akpan hailed it as “a product of creative imagination that will project Akwa Ibom on the world stage.”
Speaker of the State Assembly, Elder. Udeme Otong, praised the Governor’s vision, affirming that the project is “a testament to the judicious utilisation of funds appropriated by the Assembly for the state.”
As the sun dipped across the skyline, the ARISE Resort revealed its promise, a transformation of land and spirit, from gullies to glory, desolation to destination. More than a project, it is a legacy in the making, one that will redefine tourism in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria and Africa.
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