From Isaac Job, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Government plans to diversify its economy by investing in tourism to create jobs and boost revenue.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Dr Anieti Nsewo Udofia announced this in Uyo during World Heritage Day on April 18, 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 Governor 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, including the completion of 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.”
Dr Victor Ekpuk, in a virtual keynote from Washington, DC, emphasised the state’s diverse heritage, citing festivals like Usoro Usuk Udia and Ntuk Una Idi.
He urged documentation to preserve these assets, stating, “Not much has been written on our culture despite the fact that our cultural artefacts are all over the world in different museums.” Ekpuk also recommended reviving the raffia industry in Ikot Ekpene as a tourism driver.
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