Akwa ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has recommended conditions to the Federal Government to attain in order for operators and regulators in the country’s tourism sector to effectively mine the huge potential the industry portends for the growth of the economy.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State
Speaking as Special Guest at the 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) which held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, Thursday, Governor Eno, who also used the platform of his address to formally unveil his ARISE agenda for the development of the Akwa Ibom tourism, listed six conditions for the Federal Government to attain in order for the country to effectively mine the huge potential in the sector.
The Governor was represented on the occasion by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, a one-time Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, in the Goodluck Jonathan administration, and former state commissioner for Culture and Tourism, who is also the immediate past Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Education in the 9th Assembly.
Senator Eyakenyi who apologised for the unavoidable absence of her principal, explained further that the governor had to attend the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting convened by President Bola Tinubu, at the Presidential Villa, same day.
“It is because of the importance the governor attaches to this event and the delegates in attendance that he personally sent me to represent him, instead of any other official in his cabinet,” explained Eyakenyi.
Governor Eno’s ARISE agenda seeks to grow Akwa Ibom tourism industry through an enhanced infrastructure base which entails significant investments in upgrading and developing tourism infrastructure in the state.
Other conditions 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.’
Akwa Ibom Deputy, Senator (Mrs) Akon Eyakenyi representing Governor Umo Eno at the 26th AGM of FTAN , in Abuja, lst Thursday
According to Governor, the six conditions to be met by the Federal Government for tourism to grow, include; a review of the National Policy on Tourism, Amendment of existing laws to fasttrack tourism development, address insecurity, building of infrastructure, instituting a national culture in support of tourism, positive branding of tourism products and destinations.
Describing the National Tourism Policy as not in tune with the realities of modern industry practice, Eno noted that the ‘global tourism sector isn’t stagnant. It is growing and evolving almost with the speed of light. We can’t afford to use policies which emanated from old thinking to drive a 21st century, ICT driven sector,’ even as he advised that it has become imperative to also amend existing law guiding tourism operations.
“We must tailor our legal framework to encourage investments in the sector. In that case, existing laws must be reviewed and new ones enacted to encourage direct foreign investments and the participation of more local investors in the sector,” the governor said.
In addition to the already listed recommendations, the Akwa Ibom governor further urged the Nigerian Government to address growing insecurity across the country, and initiate a policy that ensures building of tourism-enabling infrastructure, maintaining that ‘insecurity and tourism development are mutually exclusive.’
“We must work very assiduously towards building a reputation as a safe and secure country in order to attract more tourists and even investors to the country.
“Quality infrastructures must underpin tourism development. The Dubai tourism sector, for instance is largely driven by bold infrastructures. From the quality of our airports, to roads, seaports, railways and other infrastructures, the signature of excellence must be unmistakable,” Eno said.
While restating his demand for what he called a ‘national culture in support of tourism,’ the governor noted the call is planked on the natural hospitality of the Nigerian people, as he stated that this trait has to be improved on ‘because we are competing with the rest of the World.’
FTAN National President, Mr Nkereuwen Onung (left) welcoming Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi (right) to the 26th AGM of the association in Abuja, as Ibom Air Director of Communications and Marketing, Ms Aniekan Essienette and FTAN Board Of Trustees (BOT) Chairman, Chief Samuel Alabi watch
“Government should aggressively sensitize Nigerians on attitudinal change in the direction of tourism development so much so that we should be ranked the best in the world in hospitality.
“We must be intentional about the image we project to the world, hence the need for a conscious corporate branding of Nigeria to make it more attractive,” Eno said.
The Akwa Ibom governor, who assumed office, May 29, this year, commended the FTAN AGM organisers for the apt theme of ‘Tourism today, tomorrow and Future,’ which he said timely because ‘tourism is universally recognized as the next black gold. It has sustained economies of several nations across the world and helped ensure sustainable development of those nation’s economies and in the process advance the quality of life of her citizens.’
Citing examples of countries like The Gambia, Ghana in West Africa, and Caribbean nations such as Jamaica, Aruba, The Bahamas, or the Mexican cities of Cancun, the South American nation of Brazil, the Island of Phuket in Thailand, European countries like Italy and France, and the United States of America, that had all effectively mined their tourism potential to produce marketable products for tourists, Governor Eno asked, ‘what is the current state of tourism in Nigeria and why has it not taken the centre stage in our developmental plans?’
“I think, successive governments have simply not seen the need to actively invest in this sector. Our over-dependence on oil has in a way, stunted growth in this critical sector and it is heartening to note that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that tourism will be a key area of concentration in his administration and we remain optimistic.
“Nigeria is blessed with many historic sites. It is an historical fact that more slaves departed to the new world from Badagry in Lagos State, yet Badagry has not factored in the travel plans of most African Americans who desire to establish links with their Motherland.
“The Argungu Festival in Sokoto or the Durbar that used to attract foreigners in thousands have all disappeared in the tourism calendar, same with the Yankari Games reserves, in Bauchi, which was a must see place for foreigners and other tourists.
“I think government should engage professional associations such as yours (FTAN) and work out a framework to finally tap into this solid sector. Jobs will be created, growth will occur, millions of our youths will be gainfully engaged, and at the end of all, everyone wins.
“In Akwa Ibom State, tourism is a key focal point in our ARISE Agenda. As a hospitality practitioner myself, we are determined to invest heavily in this sector and get our people back to work.
“We will promote our nationally and internationally known cuisines, and thanks to our dear daughter, Hilda Baci who recently won the Guinness World Record for the longest hours spent cooking by an individual, our rich cuisines now are on the international map.
“We have several historic sites, the house where the founder of Nigeria, Fredrick Lord Luggard lived in, is in Ikot Abasi. We have the Raffia works in Ikot Ekpene and other sites to see.
“We have everything going for us, world-class infrastructure, the ease of travel made possible by Ibom Air, Nigeria’s most preferred airline, peace and youthful and innovative population and above all a deeply hospitable people.
“Moreover, we have the longest clear sand shoreline in the country, deep green forests, mangrove stretches, artworks, Mary Slessor House in Itu, the Opobo boatyards, the scene of the 1929 women’s riot in Ikot Abasi, the marine transport beaches in Oron, the fishing ports, the National Museum and Monuments, Oron, the Ifiayong trading posts, etc. to give tourists a great and memorable viewing experience..
“The Ibeno beach, located on the Atlantic coast and endowed with a long stretch of natural white sand, is the longest sand beach in West Africa. It is an absolutely breathtaking work of nature – one of the best tourist sites in Africa and an excellent location for leisure, water sports and picnics. In the course of this administration, we intend to turn this amazing gift of nature, into a resort such as those found in The Gambia or Runaway Bay, Ochio Rios in Jamaica or those in Cancun, Mexico,” he said.
Governor explained ARISE agenda does not just target increased arrivals into the state, but in addition ‘give those who visit our state, maximum value for money and satisfaction to warrant voluntary repeat visits.’
“Presently, the Ibom Icon Hotel, situated amidst rich palm forest vegetation within the Nwaniba Golf course, offers the kind of serenity that is rare to find anywhere else in West Africa. The Four Points by Sheraton Hotel situated in the heart of the Raffia City of Ikot Ekpene is designed to give global standards hospitality to tourists. Of course, there are several medium level hotels scattered across the State for the benefit of tourists.
“Ibom Specialist Hospital, Uyo is a World class medical facility designed to redirect medical tourism from other parts of the World to Akwa Ibom State. Then, we have the 30,000 capacity Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the best sporting facility in Nigeria and one of the best in Africa. The Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Center, located in the State capital, just a few metres from the Banking and Financial Institutions Layout is an integrated recreational facility, housing a cinema, shopping malls and upon completion, a five star hotel, an international conference centre and a theme park.
“With all these already in place, our administration will focus on the development of our vast coastline, upgrade of facilities in the various tourist sites to international standards, expand existing infrastructures and consolidate on the present atmosphere of peace and security in the State.
“As we invite experts to discuss and contribute to our blueprint in an event tagged; “Ibom Dialogue” holding between the 24th and 27th of this month, we hope to connect the dots, fine-tune our proposals and come up with a clear policy on economic development, including tourism and an action plan with timelines for implementation,” he stated.
On the increasing popularity of the culture of holidays, recreation and relaxation, and the love for adventure, as well as, admiration for arts, Governor Eno stressed that the global tourism sector will keep growing and earning trillions of dollars.
“How much of this humongous amount will enter our national treasury? This question or concern becomes even more imperative in the face of the declining relevance of crude oil, which accounts for 95% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and 80% of budgetary revenues.
“We have seen how tourism and its multiplier effects have helped to develop the economies of nations, creating thousands of jobs, boosting trade, supplying foreign exchange and increasing tax returns for their governments. Nigeria cannot afford to be left out of the global tourism windfall,” he declared.
A panel session featuring industry practitioners, including; Mrs Ime Udo, president of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mr Allen Effeh, vice president of the Nigerian Hospitality and Tourism Development Conference; Clara Okoro, the Founder and Cteative Lead, My Beautiful Africa; and Kabir Ali, national secretary, Nigeria Association of Zoos and Wildlife Parks.
The session was themed on; ‘Community involvement in Tourism Development: Building Partnerships for Sustainable Tourism.’
Issues as sustainable tourism, environmental conservation and community participation formed the thematic occupation of the session as guests fielded questions.
Sustainable tourism aims to minimize negative environmental, social, and cultural impacts while maximizing positive contributions to local communities and the environment.
However, according to the experts, for sustainable tourism practices to be successful, the products must also be economically viable.
“It is essential to develop tourism products and experiences that not only prioritize sustainability but also meet market demand and attract customers.
“Sellable tourism products should showcase sustainability as a core element, emphasizing eco-friendly practices, responsible resource management, community involvement, and respect for local cultures.”
For Kabir, leveraging on technology and the Ai is no longer an option, as tourism products and packages must be presented with an African touch to help with marketability.
Also, he noted that capacity building for communities helps sustain tourism as they become fully engaged with the products coming out of their destinations.
