Tourism stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State have launched a fresh campaign to transform the state into one of Nigeria’s leading tourism destinations, as part of efforts to reduce dependence on crude oil and create new economic opportunities.
The initiative was unveiled during a meeting of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) held at Gladmann Hotel in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital. Participants at the gathering emphasized the need for stronger private sector involvement in tourism development and increased investment in hospitality, leisure, and cultural attractions.
According to the stakeholders, tourism has the potential to become a major contributor to the state’s economy by generating jobs, boosting internally generated revenue, and supporting community development. They noted that the plan aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which focuses on economic growth, human capital development, and sustainable revenue generation.
Industry players commended the state government for investing in tourism-related infrastructure and facilities, describing such projects as important foundations for long-term growth. They highlighted several attractions and assets that could help position Akwa Ibom as a preferred destination for local and international visitors.
Among the projects mentioned were the ARISE Park, the Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort, and the state-owned airline, Ibom Air. Stakeholders also pointed to natural and historical attractions such as the Blue River in Ukanafun, the Mary Slessor historical site, and former slave trade locations in Ibiono Ibom and Ikot Abasi as valuable tourism assets with strong visitor appeal.
As part of efforts to drive the tourism agenda, FTAN inaugurated a 10-member State Executive Council tasked with promoting the “Destination Akwa Ibom” vision. The committee will coordinate tourism stakeholders, engage investors and development partners, and encourage new investments into the sector.
The newly inaugurated council is headed by Joseph Umoh as Coordinator, while Sunday Otoyo serves as Deputy Coordinator. Other members include Emediong Ebong, Obonganwan Mariaterese Adiakpan, Possibility Akpan, Anthony Bassey, Unwong Ette, Edima Imara, and Idorenyin Essien, each assigned various responsibilities to support the initiative.
Speaking during the inauguration, Umoh stressed that tourism should be viewed as a serious economic sector rather than simply a recreational activity. He explained that tourism covers a wide range of industries, including hospitality, culture, sports, entertainment, business events, and creative enterprises.
He pledged that the committee would work closely with stakeholders to improve the state’s attractiveness to visitors while creating value for residents and investors.
Also speaking at the event, Brendan Inyang encouraged stakeholders to focus on tourism as a viable alternative source of economic growth. He noted that several oil-producing nations, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have successfully diversified their economies by investing heavily in tourism.
Inyang added that Akwa Ibom already possesses important advantages, including quality infrastructure and a relatively secure environment, which can help attract both domestic and foreign investors.
The Vice President of FTAN for the South-South region, Faith Esohe Essien, called for greater collaboration among government agencies, private investors, and industry players. She emphasized that achieving the “Destination Akwa Ibom” vision would require collective effort and sustained partnerships.
Stakeholders expressed confidence that with proper coordination, strategic investment, and continued support from both the public and private sectors, Akwa Ibom could emerge as one of Nigeria’s top tourism and hospitality destinations in the years ahead.
