National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Paulinus Nta, A’IBOM |
The Akwa Ibom State Government is aiming to create 2,000 direct job opportunities for indigenes through the Ibeno Beach Waterfront development project.
The government is also focusing on strategic sponsorship for the development of tourist sites in the state to attract both tourists and investors.
These initiatives are part of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which emphasises the development of the tourism sector as a key economic driver.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Charles Udoh, revealed this on Wednesday in Uyo.
He highlighted that tourism is a significant revenue source and a key avenue for job creation.
The state government is leveraging all necessary resources to boost the sector for its potential benefits and gains.
He emphasised that the Ibeno Beach Waterfront project, spearheaded by Landmark Africa, will provide automatic employment for 2,000 workers.
This project is expected to attract substantial foreign investment to the state.
“With Akwa Ibom now spotlighted as Nigeria’s premier tourism destination, the government is channeling efforts into strategic sponsorship for the development of tourist sites across the state, particularly in Ikot Abasi, Itu, Ibeno, and other coastal areas,” Udoh stated.
He noted that Akwa Ibomites in the diaspora have shown interest in developing the Slave Boat, which was confiscated from slave masters by natives of Ifiayong, Nwaniba in Uruan LGA during the slave trade era.
This historic artifact has been lying idle at the Marina of Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort.
Udoh called for collaborative efforts from public-spirited individuals to join the government in developing the state’s rich and diverse tourist sites.
This development aims to enhance the cultural heritage and historical significance of Akwa Ibom, thereby boosting the state’s tourism and revenue profile.
Discussing the benefits of the upcoming Christmas Unplugged Season 2.0, Udoh stated that the festivity will bolster the local economy, benefiting small business owners, hoteliers, taxi drivers, artists, choir groups, vendors, and other participants through numerous value chain opportunities.
Sir Udoh noted that the event would also enhance the state’s tourism profile, further establishing Akwa Ibom as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria and Africa at large.
