Gov Eno Reaffirms Commitment to Boost Aviation, Tourism, Blue Economy

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to position the state as major tourism, aviation and blue-economy destination.

Governor Eno gave the reassurance at the award and dinner night of the 2026 League of African Ambassadors Golf Tournament in Uyo, where he was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Elder Aniekan Umanah.

The Governor said his administration was deliberately developing the state’s tourism assets and transport infrastructure to attract visitors, investors and businesses from across Nigeria, Africa and the international community.

He highlighted ongoing developments at the Victor Attah International Airport, including plans for an activation of the Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul, MRO, facility to enable aircraft maintenance and repair services in the state.

Governor Eno noted that the state’s aviation development goes beyond the airport terminal, stressing that improved connectivity is critical to unlocking the potential of tourism and attracting more visitors and investors.

The Governor also disclosed that his administration was expanding maritime infrastructure as part of preparations for the proposed Ibom deep-sea port and development of the blue economy.

He said new maritime facilities, including ferries, cooling facilities for fishermen and drying facilities for aquaculture operators, were being developed, with some expected to be commissioned in the coming months.

Governor Eno further disclosed that the state was expanding its tourism and hospitality infrastructure, citing the development of a resort with a nine-hole golf course, a 5,000-capacity convention centre and a new hotel expected to be commissioned this year.

He added that a 350-bed international hospital was nearing completion and would support the state’s medical tourism ambitions.

Earlier, the Captain of the Uyo Golf and Country Club, Chief Isuamfon Archibong, commended the Governor for the sustained support towards the maintenance and upkeep of the golf course, describing it as tourism infrastructure rather than merely a recreational facility.

He disclosed that the club hosted its biggest golf open in Nigeria during the year, attracting more than 350 golfers from over 20 golf clubs, with the event generating economic activity for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, artisans and traders in the state.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Organising Committee of the League of African Ambassadors Golf Tournament, Ambassador Ben Okoyen, commended the Akwa Ibom State Government and the Uyo Golf and Country Club for hosting the tournament.

Ambassador Okoyen described the tournament as more than a sporting event, saying it provides a platform for African ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders and professionals to promote friendship, networking, unity and diplomacy through golf.

By Lovina Emole

Related