Delta State has officially launched a statewide campaign aimed at boosting culture and tourism development, spearheaded by Ambassador Huxley Unumadu, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Executive Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Culture and Tourism Development.The campaign kicked off on August 22, 2024, with an official visit to the Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area, Barrister Possible Ajede.

During the visit at the council’s secretariat on Umuebu Road, Obiaruku, Ambassador Unumadu highlighted the significance of choosing Ukwuani L.G.A. as the starting point for the campaign. He emphasized that Ukwuani is his homeland, aligning with the adage “charity begins at home.”

Moreover, Ukwuani is home to one of Delta State’s most remarkable tourism attractions—the source of the Ethiope River, located in the Umuaja community.

The river, renowned for its pure, tasteless, and odorless water, flows from beneath an ancient, pre-historic Iroko tree, making it one of Nigeria’s most inspiring natural wonders.

Ambassador Unumadu expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign, noting that Delta State’s tourism sector holds tremendous potential to become a significant economic driver, comparable to crude oil.

He emphasized that if the state’s culture and tourism sector are properly harnessed and promoted on a global scale, they could generate substantial revenue for Delta State, contributing to the overall economic growth.

In response, Barrister Ajede, the recently re-elected Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, pledged his full support for the campaign.

He assured Ambassador Unumadu that all necessary resources and assistance would be provided to ensure the success of the initiative.

Ajede recognized the importance of the “Delta State is Beautiful” campaign, especially in the context of the global economic downturn, where governments worldwide must explore alternative revenue sources to navigate current challenges.

He stressed that the campaign should also focus on encouraging Delta indigenes in the diaspora to return home, invest, and contribute to the state’s socioeconomic development.

Ajede further suggested that the campaign should not only highlight tourism potentials but also the state’s natural resources, with a focus on establishing industries and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

He emphasized that this broader approach could significantly enhance Delta State’s economic resilience.

As part of the campaign, Ambassador Unumadu called on all 25 Local Government Council Chairmen to establish tourism committees within their jurisdictions.

These committees would serve as resource persons and tour guides for tourists and play a crucial role in generating revenue for the local councils by collecting dues and fees from hotels, guest houses, event centers, eateries, and other cultural and traditional institutions.

Ambassador Unumadu’s ambitious campaign seeks to position Delta State as a premier destination for tourism and cultural heritage, fostering unity and social inclusion across its diverse communities.