A’Ibom Displays Artifacts At World Heritage Day celebration, Intends To Boost Economy Through Tourism

Nelson Utip

The government of Akwa Ibom State is bent on boosting the economy of the state through investment in tourism to enhance job creation which will boost it’s revenue base.

The state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia stated this at Wattbridge Hotels in n Uyo during the World Heritage Day celebration over the weekend with the theme “Heritage Under Threat From Disaster and Conflict” which the state localized to “Cultural Heritage and Economic Development: Optimising the Tourism Component of the ARISE Agenda”, in tandem with the present administration’s  development blueprint.

“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.” He stated.

He highlighted achievements of the administration in tourism development which includes, the completion of ARISE Park, the International Conference Centre, ongoing maintenance of sports facilities, and upgrades to the Ibom Hotel. He further stated 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.”

In a virtual keynote address, Dr Victor Ekpuk based  in Washington, DC emphasised the state’s diverse heritage, citing festivals like Usoro Usung Udia and Ntuk Una Idi,

Dr Ekpuk called for documentation to preserve our cultural heritage, he stated that:

“Not much has been written on our culture despite the fact that our cultural artefacts are all over the world in different museums.”

He in addition recommended the resuscitation of the raffia industry in Ikot Ekpene as a tourism booster.