Akwa Ibom governor urges diaspora to drive tourism, investment

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has urged members of the state’s diaspora in the United States to leverage their skills, professional networks, and resources to drive tourism, investment, and cultural heritage promotion in their home state.

Represented by Noble Lady Helen Obareki, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, the Governor delivered the message during the 38th Annual Convention of the Akwa Ibom State Association of Nigeria, USA, Inc. (AKISAN), held at the Marriott Hotel, Arlington, Virginia.

Governor Eno commended AKISAN for sustaining the state’s cultural values and fostering unity among Akwa Ibom indigenes abroad. He encouraged members to adopt a model of “backward integration” like the Chinese and Indian diasporas by channelling education, technology, and business connections toward socio-economic growth.

Citing attractions such as Ikot Abasi’s historic castle, ONNA’s pottery industry, and Ikot Ekpene’s raffia craft, he challenged the diaspora to attract investments, transfer technology, and promote the state’s tourism potential. He highlighted Dr. Itawan James, a US-trained professional who returned home to establish the world-class ARISE Senior Citizens’ Centre, as an example to emulate.

In a major announcement, the Governor pledged to host the 2026 AKISAN Convention in Uyo and urged immediate planning with the state government. He also redeemed his $5,000 pledge from last year’s convention to the winner of a native dialect competition, reinforcing his passion for preserving indigenous language.

Governor Eno outlined tourism-driven projects including the proposed ARISE Resorts, a mini-Disneyland with luxury facilities, a 5,000-seater international conference centre, a five-star hotel, a shopping mall, and a world-class hospital.

AKISAN President, Engr. Mbong Ekiko, thanked the Governor for his consistent support and for sending a five-person delegation to the event. He assured the association’s commitment to partnering with the state government to advance the ARISE Agenda and other development programmes.

The 2025 convention featured a Governor’s Townhall Meeting, Women’s Summit, Children’s Summit, and Business and Technology Summit. It attracted Akwa Ibom people from across the US and Nigeria, uniting the global community in celebrating heritage, achievement, and a shared vision for the state’s future.