Akwa Ibom State celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 with remarkable flair and pour of accolades from stakeholders for Akwa Ibom state governor, Pastor Umo Eno Ph.D and his investment in sustainable tourism.
Akwa Ibom communities in Uyo, Uruan and Itu witnessed a campaign for environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism practices on Saturday, October 4,2025, as the Commissioner for Culture & Tourism in Akwa Ibom State, Anieti Udofia Ph.D led tourism stakeholders for an Eco-Friendly RoadWalk & Clean Up to mark World Tourism Day 2025 in the state.
Although originally observed worldwide on September 27th,the Ministry of Culture & Tourism partnered with the Ime Udo led Akwa Ibom State Hotels & Tourism Board, for an Eco-Friendly Road Walk that aligns with this year's global theme,'Tourism and Sustainable Transformation'.
In separate statements, stakeholders hailed Governor Eno who has reaffirmed his administration's focus on tourism as a central pillar of the ARISE Agenda,highlighting projects like the Ibom International Convention Centre, ARISE Resort and renovation of Ibom Icon Hotel & Golf Resort,which emphasizes tourism's role in diversifying Akwa Ibom's economy beyond oil .
In the course of the sensitization,the Commissioner harped on the gains of maintaining a clean, green, and serene environment, as a safe and hygienic environment is a natural magnet for tourists and investors. He said Akwa Ibom State under the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno is ready to host the world for tourism,hence his huge investment in infrastructure.
In her remark while addressing the stakeholders,the Chairman,Akwa Ibom Hotels and Tourism Board, Mrs Ime Udo returned all glory to God Almighty for the successful outing. 'I am deeply grateful for the camaraderie and unwavering commitment showed toward the success of the World Tourism Day celebration. It would not have been possible without your collective support, presence, and invaluable contributions.
Speaking further,Mrs Udo, who doubles as Honourary Adviser to Governor on Culture & Tourism reiterated that, "When we unite with a shared purpose, the result is always an outstanding success and this event was a perfect example of that.Let us continue in this spirit of collaboration and excellence". She thanked the governor and commissioner for inspiring leadership and guidance.
Also speaking at the occasion,the immediate past President of Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) Mr. Nkereuwem Onung,who is Honorary Special Adviser to Akwa Ibom State Governor on Culture & Tourism, said the celebration aligns with broader efforts recognizing tourism as a tool for economic diversification and cultural exchange when managed with environmental considerations.
He said Akwa Ibom State's actions contribute to Nigeria's overall tourism impact, focusing on sustainable practices.The Road Walk and Cleanup Drive, which is a symbolic cleanup targeting key tourism areas in Akwa Ibom, emphasizing environmental cleanliness. The walk also involved promotion of Sustainable Tourism vision of the governor of Akwa Ibom state,Pastor Umo Eno Ph.D,positioning Akwa Ibom as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria.
Mr. Nkereuwem Onung commended Governor Umo Eno's initiatives fostering eco-conscious tourism,significant amongst them is the recovery of a gully erosion site which he has transformed to a tourists' haven named ARISE Resort. Onung said Akwa Ibom's engagement with sustainable tourism could enhance its tourism appeal, economic benefits and environmental protection, positioning the state as a model for responsible tourism practices in Nigeria.
World Tourism Day 2025, celebrated globally under the theme "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation", the event reiterates Akwa Ibom state's dedication to balancing tourism growth with ecological responsibility.
Among the tourism stakeholders and partners on the road walk were: the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Grace Akpan,Senior Special Assistant to Governor on Tourism (Hotels), Mrs Imabong Zoe, Senior Special Assistant to Governor on Entertainment, Mr David Sergeant (Utang Akwa Ibom) and the Chairman of Uruan local government council, Rt. Hon. (Surv) Iniobong Ekpenyong, among others.
See photos below;
.jpg)
0 Comments