Akwa Ibom’s government commits to protecting heritage sites as vital tourism assets, aiming to enhance sustainable development and boost the local economy

The Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated its dedication to collaborating with host communities and other stakeholders to prevent the destruction or defacement of heritage sites, recognising these locations as essential assets for tourism.

The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Ani­eti Udofia, made this commitment during his recent visit to the Mary Slessor Memorial Cairn in Use Ikot Oku, Ibiono LGA.

This visit is part of his ongoing familiarisation tour of tourism sites across the state, aimed at reinforcing the government’s focus on the preservation and promotion of tourism.

During the tour, Dr. Udofia underscored the importance of safeguarding heritage sites, stressing that the government is intensifying its efforts to integrate these sites into broader tourism development plans.

The visit to the Mary Slessor Memorial Cairn highlights the state’s commitment to preserving landmarks that are not only rich in historical significance but also central to the local tourism industry.

Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Grace Akpan, Dr. Udofia emphasised that the ARISE Agenda, the Umo En­o administration’s development blueprint, prioritises tourism promotion.

The administration recognises tourism as a critical driver of sustainable development, with plans for the upgrade and maintenance of heritage sites, including the Mary Slessor Memorial Cairn.

“The Umo En­o administration is fully dedicated to safeguarding and promoting Akwa Ibom’s rich cultural heritage,” Dr. Udofia declared during the visit.

He further revealed that Governor Umo En­o is planning significant upgrades to tourism facilities and heritage sites across the state. These upgrades aim to improve visitor experiences and create employment opportunities, especially for the host communities.

The Commissioner also highlighted the key role that tourism plays in boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), stating that Governor Umo En­o’s tourism-driven leadership would revitalise the sector, creating economic opportunities and contributing to sustainable development.

Emphasising the collaborative nature of heritage preservation, Dr. Udofia called for the active involvement of host communities in safeguarding these sites.

He recognised their role in ensuring the sustainability of Akwa Ibom’s tourism assets and strengthening the tourism sector as a whole.

The Council Chairman of Ibiono Ibom LGA, Hon. Asuakak Umoh, warmly welcomed the commissioner to the Ibiono Ibom heritage site.

Hon. Umoh praised the region’s rich cultural heritage and commended Governor Umo En­o for his commitment to the development of tourism in the state.

During the tour, the delegation visited several notable tourism sites in Ibiono Ibom LGA, including the Mary Slessor Memorial Cairn, the Okopedi Beach Market, the Traditional Rulers’ Council (TRC) Complex at Ikpa Ibiono, and the Mary Slessor Vocational School.

These sites collectively represent the cultural and historical richness of the region, further underscoring the importance of preserving such assets for future generations.

The Akwa Ibom State Government’s ongoing efforts to protect its heritage sites are poised to enhance the state’s tourism potential, creating a thriving, sustainable sector that benefits local communities and the broader economy.

An Australian woman has died after a boat capsized off Bali, injuring another person and leaving several tourists in danger

An Australian woman has tragically died following a boat capsizing in rough waters off Bali, Indonesia, on Friday morning. The boat, known as Sea Dragon 2, was en route to Nusa Penida, a popular island near Bali, when it was hit by large waves, according to local authorities.

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The incident occurred as the vessel, which was carrying 16 people, including 11 Australian tourists, was struck by unexpectedly violent weather conditions. The boat capsized in the treacherous waters, throwing passengers into danger.

Ida Bagus Putra Sumerta, the police chief of Bali, confirmed the incident and reported that a nearby boat rushed to the scene to rescue the passengers. Emergency responders quickly evacuated the survivors, and at least two people were taken to the hospital for medical treatment.

One of the Australian tourists was pronounced dead shortly after being rescued. Another passenger sustained a burn injury and was treated for the wound.

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade expressed condolences and confirmed that it was providing consular services to the affected families.

“At least two Australians were injured, and we are offering consular support to the family of the deceased,” said a spokesperson for the department.

The deadly boat accident has raised fresh concerns about maritime safety standards in Indonesia, a country of more than 17,000 islands where marine accidents are not uncommon.

In 2018, a ferry sank in one of the world’s deepest lakes on Sumatra island, leading to over 150 fatalities. Critics have pointed to lax safety measures as a contributing factor to the frequent maritime tragedies in the region.

The latest incident comes as Bali continues to attract a steady stream of international tourists, despite ongoing challenges related to transport safety in Indonesia’s busy waters.

As authorities investigate the capsizing, there are calls for improved safety regulations to prevent further tragedies in the region.

Indonesia remains a popular destination for tourists, but with its reputation for frequent maritime accidents, the latest tragedy highlights the ongoing need for better safety standards and stricter enforcement to safeguard visitors and locals alike.

Abia State government partners with the Federal Government to revamp the National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker into world-class tourist attractions

In a bid to transform Abia into a top tourist destination, the state government has announced major tourism initiatives in collaboration with the Federal Government.

The project will focus on revamping two of the state’s most significant historical sites—the National War Museum and the Ojukwu Bunker in Umuahia—into world-class tourist attractions.

Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, revealed the exciting plans during a press briefing at the Government House following the State Executive Council meeting on Monday.

He confirmed that the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy will lead the project to enhance the appeal of these historical sites.

The National War Museum, located in Umuahia, holds immense historical value as it houses relics from the Nigerian-Biafran War of the late 1960s, one of the most significant and devastating conflicts in Nigeria’s history.

The museum is the only one of its kind in West Africa, showcasing various artefacts, including fighter jets, weapons, and other relics from the three-year-long war in which an estimated three million people lost their lives.

Equally significant is the Ojukwu Bunker, an underground location used by the Biafran war cabinet during the Nigerian Civil War. It served as the hideout for key leaders of the Biafran Republic, including the then Head of State, Gen. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, shielding them from the advancing Nigerian forces. The bunker is an important reminder of Nigeria’s turbulent history and a major site for those interested in the country’s past.

In addition to these key historical sites, Kanu also highlighted that over 55 other historical and cultural locations across Abia State have been discovered and will be included in the state’s tourism development plans.

Among these are Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi, Bende, Mazi Okoro Orji’s Compound in Arochukwu, and Ntubugwo Oloko in Ikwuano, which is historically significant as the site where participants of the 1929 Aba Women’s Riot were tried.

To accommodate the expected influx of tourists, the state government is also planning to build a five-star hotel in Umuahia. Kanu emphasized that these projects will not only preserve Abia’s rich history but also generate economic opportunities through the tourism sector.

Matthew Ekwuribe, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, further elaborated on Abia’s natural attractions. He highlighted the presence of waterfalls in at least three local government areas, caves in Alayi, Isuikwuato, and Umunneochi, as well as the Azumini Blue River, a unique natural wonder.

Ekwuribe also pointed out Akwaete Beach as an untapped treasure, showcasing Abia’s potential for diverse tourism offerings.

“These historical and natural sites, when fully developed, will attract visitors not just from Nigeria, but from all around the world,” Ekwuribe added.

With these ambitious plans, Abia State is positioning itself as a key destination for historical, cultural, and eco-tourism in Nigeria.

The revitalisation of the National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker, along with the development of other cultural sites, aims to preserve Abia’s legacy while boosting the local economy through tourism.