Events

Akwa Ibom to host world tourism summit in September

Published

1 year ago

April 29, 2025

Akwa Ibom State announces plans to host its first World Tourism Summit in September, “Ibom Tourism Fare,” to boost tourism and revenue

Akwa Ibom State is set to host its inaugural World Tourism Summit in September of this year, marking a significant step in the state’s strategy to develop its numerous tourist attractions and significantly boost its internally generated revenue.

Also read: Akwa Ibom partners MTN to boost sports tourism

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Anieti Udofia, during a recent radio programme in Uyo, the state capital. Mr. Udofia revealed that advanced plans are underway for the three-day event, which has been aptly named “Ibom Tourism Fare.”

Highlighting his achievements since assuming office just over a month ago, Commissioner Udofia proudly spoke of the successful Heritage Day celebration held on April 19th.

He announced that this event, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Akwa Ibom people, will now be an annual affair, observed every year on April 18th.

Furthermore, Mr. Udofia addressed the popular “Orange September” event, traditionally held to commemorate the State’s anniversary. He indicated a strong likelihood of its return, albeit with some modifications to better resonate with the public.

We are making plans to host a first-ever World Tourism Summit, which will last for three days,” said Anieti Udofia, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Akwa Ibom State.

“You need to do what people like, and so there will likely be a return of the ‘Orange September’ initiative, but with some changes,” he stated.

The Commissioner emphasized that all decisions within his Ministry are guided by the ARISE AGENDA, underscoring the pivotal role of tourism in driving development, enhancing the State’s internally generated revenue, and generating more employment opportunities for the people of Akwa Ibom.

Mr. Udofia also shared exciting plans for the development of key tourist sites, including the popular Ibeno Beach. He expressed the State Government’s eagerness to forge partnerships with private investors to further stimulate growth within the tourism sector.

Adding a touch of his personal approach, Commissioner Udofia playfully referred to himself as the “Happy Hour” Commissioner, assuring that his Ministry is committed to delivering enjoyable and engaging experiences that will attract a greater number of visitors to Akwa Ibom State.

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Culture

WAKE UP! Art Exhibition Returns for a Second Act

Published

2 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Mariam Balogun

The contemporary art and photography exhibition “Wake Up!” is back again for a second edition.

Curated by Awele Onwordi, Wake Up! 2 exhibition pays homage to the Nigerian youth and burgeoning street culture which many of its contributing artists reference in their works.

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Titled “Young, Wild, Free”, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, resilience, freedom and cultural influence found in Nigerian youth.

Taking aim at societal issues and economic concerns, the exhibit reflects the youth and their refusal to compromise or bow despite all the challenges stacked against them while charting youth culture through art, music, fashion, skateboarding, photography and community.

The exhibition will be held, once again, at the Angel and Muse Gallery at 25 Sumbo Jibowu street off Ribadu Road off Awolowo Road in Ikoyi.

It will open on Saturday 5 September 2026 and will run until 11 September 2026
This second edition which focuses on celebrating, nurturing and exploring artistic practices rooted in youth and street culture will feature works from DENCITY and SUPERGLIDER HOUSE.

Exhibiting artists include Ajilore Kehinde – their work is deeply influenced by Nigerian street culture and works of other artists like Slawn, Peters Ejiro, etc, Chuka Onwordi – graphic designer who embodies themes of death, melancholy and beauty in his works, ZIDYEP – Abuja based creative whose works move between digital and physical spaces through art, graphic design and air brushing , Franklyn Okoye – graphic designer and artist whose works explore themes of identity and hyper-reality, Awele Onwordi – founder & curator of WAKE UP and multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans character art, creative logo design, album covers and more , Oluchi Kogolo – digital illustrator whose work explores street culture, personality and storytelling through a raw and playful visual style and Kozetuo Apeji – multidisciplinary artists who work explores experimental approaches to problem solving through both digital and traditional art forms.

Commenting on the exhibition in her curatorial statement, Awele noted that “despite economic instability, limited opportunities and socio-political challenges, Nigerian youth continue to shape culture through music, fashion, art, skateboarding, raves, photography and community.”

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Continuing and harping on the raison d’etre of the exhibition she said, “Young, Wild and Free exists to celebrate Nigerian youth while also creating a platform that supports and amplifies them.”