Akwa Ibom Governor Pledges Commitment To Tourism, Blue Economy Development

Akwa Ibom governor pledges commitment to tourism, blue economy development… commends Editi Effiong for projecting State’s tourism potentials

As part of his effort to encourage tourism and enhance the State’s blue economy, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to encourage and reward young professionals who are willing to collaborate with his administration in promoting the positive image of the State through the ARISE Agenda.

The Governor made this known while fielding questions from Government House correspondents shortly after embarking on inspection of a locale of a movie, “The Black Book 2” (Old Scores), at Ishiet Beach/Market in Uruan Local Government Area.

He commended the movie Producer and Director, Mr. Editi Effiong, for his talent, vision, inspiration, and creative ability to project the tourism potentials and boost the economy of the State.

Governor Eno charged young Akwa Ibomites to shun divisive tendencies, be inspired, and emulate the creative effort of successful Akwa Ibom sons and daughters by joining hands to develop the tourism and blue economy of the State.

“The impression is amazing, seeing that we have one of our own trying to pull the world down here.

“I would love to thank and encourage him, and to let our young people see that Akwa Ibom has what it takes to drag the world’s attention.

“It depends on what you see. Someone can see this place and write one story about a swamp that has been abandoned and make all the noise. Another person sees this place and makes a great movie out of it that will market this place to the world and is able to attract the attention because of the work he has done here,” he said.

The State Chief Executive pledged his encouragement, support, and collaboration with Editi and other young Akwa Ibomites to enable them rise to the zenith of their calling.

“We are going to work with him. Editi is a young man I have known very well. This is one thing I say to our people in the diaspora, let’s partner. Come back home, whatever you see out there, bring it back here, and let’s work together.

“I think that is the story, and I am really impressed. If you know the number of people that have visited this State in the course of this film, the talents, and the caliber of artists that have been here, then this young man deserves an award and our support,” he added.

Ibom Deep SeaPort

On his part, the movie Producer and Director, Effiong, appreciated Governor Eno for his visionary leadership and passion for tourism development.

He expressed gratitude to the Governor for creating a hospitable and tourism friendly ecosystem to enhance talent exploration through the provision of good road network and quality modern facilities which distinguished the State as one of the most treasured locations in the country.

EFCC Releases Ex-AGF Malami After Hours Of Interrogation

EFCC releases ex-AGF Malami after hours of interrogation. He said he would return for further questioning.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released the former attorney general of the federation and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami, after hours of interrogation by the anti-graft team.

Mr Malami confirmed his release in his X account on Saturday. The former minister said that he had been released and scheduled for another meeting with investigators.
He said that the reality behind the “fabricated allegations” levelled against him would become clearer with time.

“In line with my undertaking to keep Nigerians updated on my invitation by EFCC, I give glory to Allah for his divine intervention. “The engagement was successful and I am eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continues to unfold.”

EFCC Releases Ex-AGF Malami After Hours Of Interrogation

The EFCC had summoned Mr Malami through a letter dated November 24, and signed by Sunday Ofen-Imu on behalf of its chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

The EFCC did not disclose the specific allegations for which Mr Malami was invited.

BREAKING: International Flight Operation – A New Dawn For Akwa Ibom

BREAKING: International flight operation – a new dawn for Akwa Ibom. On a bright Friday morning, a chartered plane descends smoothly onto the runway of Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo. For the first time in years, the airport, upgraded to international standards, welcomes travellers from abroad directly, without the need for cumbersome stop overs. As the passengers step out, they are greeted by warm sunshine, gentle coastal breezes and the promise of adventure in a land long admired but rarely visited.
Among them is Anna, a tourist from Europe curious about Nigeria’s lesser known treasures. She has booked a flight because she read about Akwa Ibom’s serene beaches, rich culture, and vibrant hospitality scene. With her suitcase in hand and camera ready, she hails a cab to the coast, to a place called Ibeno Beach, reputed to be the longest stretch of natural sandy beach in the country.

Elsewhere, a business traveller couple from Asia arrives at night, thanks to the recently restored night flight capability of the airport. The lights of Uyo’s cityscape welcome them. Their plan is not merely tourism. They come to explore opportunities in real estate, hospitality investments and marine port projects, drawn by Akwa Ibom’s emerging infrastructure and connectivity.

Discovering Hidden Treasures, Tourism Blossoms

With the ease of direct access, people like Anna are no longer daunted by complicated travel itineraries. They can touch down in Uyo and in a few hours find themselves sunbathing on Ibeno Beach, exploring mangrove lined creeks, savouring local cuisine, and attending cultural events.

Local hotels and resorts, some recently built, others simply refurbished, begin to fill up. Tour operators, boat ride operators, souvenir craftsmen, local guides and transport drivers see a sudden surge in demand. Families book weekend getaways. Young couples go for romantic beach walks. International guests craving unique tropical culture find themselves drawn to the forested hills, water side villages, and warm hospitality of the people.

Small businesses flourish. The souvenir making artisans produce hand woven crafts, traditional garments and artworks. Restaurants serve local dishes to foreigners curious about Nigerian coastal cuisine. Tour guides offer boat rides, ecotourism treks, historical site tours and even visits to old missionary sites and cultural villages.

From Tourism to Revenue, Jobs and Infrastructure

The inflow of travellers brings tangible income. Payment for airport services, landing fees, tourism taxes, hotel fees, tour operator commissions, local transport fares, dining and souvenirs. The government begins to record increased revenue from airport operations and tourism related levies.

At the same time, businesses spring up to meet the rising demand. New hotels, resorts, restaurants and tour agencies. This creates jobs for hotel staff, cooks, guides, drivers, artisans, maintenance staff, security personnel and many others. Local youth find employment in hospitality and related services.

Investors, seeing the rising interest and improved connectivity, start funding larger infrastructure projects. Roads to beach areas are improved. Leisure facilities, resorts, waterfront promenades and small marinas are built. With increased financial inflows, the state government reinvests into public infrastructure. Roads, electricity, waste management and beautification receive attention.

Having a modern internationally connected airport also strengthens Akwa Ibom’s appeal for trade and logistics. With proposed harbour or deep sea port developments on the horizon, the state is gradually transforming into an integrated logistics and tourism hub.

A Story of Renewal and Possibility

By opening its skies, Akwa Ibom changes from a hard to reach but beautiful coast to a must visit destination with easy access. People like Anna now tell their friends about their unforgettable beach holiday. Business minded visitors arrive to explore investment opportunities. Local entrepreneurs seize new markets.

The result is more jobs, improved livelihoods, rising incomes and increasing state revenue. The revenue helps fund roads, public utilities, coastal development and improvements to public facilities. Over time, the state becomes more prosperous and more vibrant, tourism and commerce leading to real, visible transformation.

International Flight

Why This Matters. Beyond the Story

Analysis shows that airport infrastructure, such as direct international flights, is strongly correlated with socio economic growth, increased tourism, employment and income generation.

With the recent approval for international operations at Victor Attah International Airport, the capacity to bring in foreign visitors without major transit delays is now achievable.

The resetting of night flight operations adds flexibility to travel schedules, boosting the attractiveness for both leisure and business travellers.

The state’s broader plan under the ARISE Agenda envisions tourism and hospitality as major pillars for economic diversification, lessening reliance on oil revenues.