Umo Eno begins Ibom Convention Centre, hotel reconstruction

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has flagged off the reconstruction of the Ibom International Convention Centre and the 200-room Ibom Hotel in Uyo, reaffirming his commitment to repositioning the state as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria. The Governor said the projects, abandoned for over 15 years, are integral to his administration’s ARISE Agenda, which seeks to diversify the state’s economy beyond oil.

Speaking at the project site, Governor Eno emphasized the need for critical infrastructure to support tourism. He said the convention centre and hotel, along with the ongoing ARISE Resort project, are key components of the state’s tourism master plan. “We are building the infrastructure needed to make Akwa Ibom a one-stop tourism haven,” he said.

Referencing Hebrews 11:39–40, the Governor noted that though the projects were initiated years ago, they remained incomplete. He said his administration was divinely positioned to complete them, given his background in the hospitality industry. “This is about deploying the finisher’s anointing. We must not let billions of state resources already invested go to waste,” he stated.

Eno described Uyo as the host city of choice for national events and said the new facilities would attract more seminars, retreats, and conventions. He assured the public that the hotel would be completed within 12 months and would meet international standards.

He added that the ARISE Resort, currently under construction, will feature a 9-hole golf course, banquet hall, artificial lakes, chalets, and playgrounds, making it the best family-themed resort in the country. “With Ibom Air, our international airport, and a peaceful environment, Akwa Ibom is set for tourism-driven growth,” the Governor said.

The Governor also urged citizens to remain united and focus on development over politics. “Let us reduce political bickering. The ARISE Agenda remains our blueprint for governance,” he said.

Leaders at the event, including Senator Aniekan Bassey and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, praised the Governor for his inclusive leadership and dedication to completing legacy projects. They pledged their support for his administration and political future.

Commissioner for Special Duties, Ini Ememobong, said the projects are critical to boosting tourism traffic to the state. Traditional and local government leaders also commended the Governor’s resolve to complete inherited projects, describing him as a visionary leader and “jinx breaker.”