Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment towards harnessing the cultural and tourism potentials of the state to drive economic development.
Eno disclosed this at the opening of a 32-day fiesta tagged: “Akwa Ibom Christmas Unplugged Season 3” in Uyo, yesterday.
He said Akwa Ibom’s tourism sector is advancing immensely, adding that the upgrade of Victor Attah Airport to an international status is a deliberate step to boost the tourism sector.
“For us, tourism is becoming our state’s middle name. We have taken deliberate steps to advance the sector.
“From the hills of Itu, to the beaches of Ibeno, to the relics of Ikot Abasi, we are developing tourism in Akwa Ibom with our God-given resources.
“Ibom Air is opening the way. We are doing all we can to tick all the boxes, this is to ensure that we expand the sector.
“We can move people within the sub-region. We are slowly building our tourism potentials”, he said.
Eno added that the Christmas Unplugged Season 3 offers visitors and residents the opportunity to relax and have fun during the yuletide.
“We assure you of a hitch-free event. Top notch preparations have been made to provide adequate security and medical emergencies”, he said
Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, said the Eno-led administration had transformed the state into a choice destination.
Udofia commended the governor for his passion to develop the tourism sector, saying,”I also thank the governor for giving me the opportunity to interpret his tourism vision for the state.
The Chairman, Uyo Local Government Council, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, expressed confidence that the 2025 edition of the Christmas fiesta would be successful.
“A lot of energy and resources have been put in to prepare for this year’s event, we are very optimistic that it will surpass previous editions,” he said.
Udo, also the Chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom Chapter, said local government chairmen would synergise efforts towards ensuring a successful outing.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the opening ceremony featured a variety of performances and cultural displays. NAN
