FTAN will showcase Akwa Ibom’s tourism gems at Governing Council meeting in Uyo —Onung
• Onung
Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), has announced that the federation will highlight Akwa Ibom State’s tourism offerings during its upcoming Governing Council meeting, scheduled for May 21 to 24 in Uyo.
This event, according to him, will also emphasise the Governor Umo Eno administration’s initiatives to enhance tourism in the state.
At a press briefing to unveil the details of the council meeting in Uyo, on Friday, Mr Onung stated that the four-day event will also feature a gala night and a tour designed for guests to experience the rich culture and attractions of Akwa Ibom.
He noted that the decision to host the council meeting in Akwa Ibom was influenced by the state’s growing prominence in Africa’s tourism sector, providing stakeholders with a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the destination firsthand.
“Akwa Ibom State is a rising star in Africa’s tourism landscape, boasting a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. As a tourism professional who founded Remlords Tours decades ago, as the President of private sector tourism stakeholders, and as an Adviser to the Governor, I would like to commend the achievements that the current administration has made in the tourism sector.
“Some notable achievements include the identification and promotion of peace as a valuable tourism product, as development cannot occur without peace. Additionally, the state government has demonstrated its commitment to investing in tourism infrastructure, recognising its potential to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and enhance rural and riverine areas”
Onung stated that the Umo Eno administration in Akwa Ibom has allocated and invested significant funds towards the development of tourism in the state.
“The state has commenced the construction of ARISE PARK; a state-of-the-art recreational centre- for promotion of cultural heritage. The government aims to preserve and promote Akwa Ibom’s rich cultural heritage from the 31 local government areas, as evident in the annual Ibom Christmas Unplugged- a 32-day festival.
“These developments aim to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in Akwa Ibom State, considering tourism as a developmental catalyst.”
The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) serves as the leading organization for tourism in Nigeria. Its Governing Council includes representatives from more than 23 professional associations, such as travel and tour operators, hospitality professionals, destination managers, tourism consultants, cultural festival promoters, parks and gardens owners, and youth tourism associations.
