Akwa Ibom chapter of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has congratulated the President of the group, Mr Nkereuwem Onung on his recent appointment as Senior Special Adviser (SSA) on Tourism to the State Governor, Umo Eno.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State
Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Eno had, last month, appointed Mr Onung as SSA on Tourism, alongside another FTAN chieftain, Mrs Ime Udo, in what has been described as representing ‘a milestone in the history of the umbrella body of tourism practitioners in the country.’
Onunu who doubles as the President of FTAN, and operator of Remlord Travels, a tour company based in Calabar, Cross River State, was at the 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the group, on July 20 in Abuja, also re-elected unopposed for a second term in office.
Congratulating Onung on the appointment, the Akwa Ibom chapter, in a statement, Monday, further hailed the FTAN president on his ‘unanimous re-election for another term.’
In the statement signed by Mr Joseph Umoh, the State Chapter Coordinator, while wishing Onung ‘a successful tenure in office,’ further assured of the Akwa Ibom tourism operators’ ‘total support and ready partnership’ with his administration at the national body.
Mr. Umoh also expressed the backing for Onung to drive the State Governor’s ‘ARISE agenda objectives to make Akwa Ibom State a world class tourism destination.’
“On behalf of the Executive Committee, the various tourism associations and members of the State Chapter of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria – FTAN, we most heartily congratulate you on the successful hosting of the 26th Annual General meeting (AGM) of our association held recently in Abuja, and your unanimous re-election for another term as the national President of FTAN.
“We also congratulate you, with great pride on your recent appointment as the Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to the governor of Akwa Ibom State on Culture & Tourism.
“We wish you a most successful tenure and further assure you of our total support and ready partnership as you steer the ship of FTAN; and in support of His Excellency’s ARISE agenda objectives to make Akwa Ibom State a world class tourism destination.
“Once again, please accept our congratulations on your well-deserved re-election and appointment,” read he statement by Umoh.
FTAN President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung
It would be recalled that, last Thursday, July 20, at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, in Abuja, during the AGM of FTAN, which held under the theme of; ‘Tourism Today and Tomorrow: Setting the Agenda for the New Administration,’ the Akwa Ibom Governor, Eno, formally unveiled his ARISE agenda in the state, with a call to the Federal Government to review the National Policy on Tourism in order for operators to realize and mine the enormous potential in the sector.
Governor Eno’s ARISE agenda seeks to grow the Akwa Ibom tourism industry through; an enhanced infrastructure base which entails significant investments in upgrading and developing tourism infrastructure in the stat. Others are:
‘Sustainable Tourism Initiatives: By implementing eco-friendly measures, conserving natural resources, and protecting the region’s rich biodiversity, its stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems will be preserved for generations to come.
“Cultural Heritage Preservation: Akwa Ibom State boasts a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.
“Destination Marketing and Promotion: Through strategic campaigns, collaborations with travel influencers, and participation in international tourism events, Akwa Ibom can be positioned as a must-visit destination, capturing the attention of travelers from around the globe.
“Community Involvement and Empowerment: By engaging local communities in the tourism sector, providing training and opportunities for entrepreneurship, and supporting local businesses, AKS can create a sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits the people,” the state government said.
According to Eno, ‘with the ARISE agenda, Akwa Ibom State is poised to become a premier tourism destination, offering breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.’
Speaking as Special Guest during the 26th AGM FTAN, Governor Eno noted that a review of the country’s National Policy on Tourism would engender growth and fasttrack infrastructure development ‘needed for operators and stakeholders alike to reap bountifully from the sector.’
Eno, who was represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, further posited that amendment of existing tourism laws must be accelerated for sporadic development in the sector.
