Governor Umo Eno has urged the Akwa Ibom diaspora in the U.S. to channel skills and resources into boosting tourism, investment, and cultural heritage in the state

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has called on Akwa Ibom indigenes in the United States to channel their expertise, professional networks, and resources toward driving tourism, investment, and cultural heritage promotion back home.

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Speaking through Helen Obareki, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, at the 38th annual convention of the Akwa Ibom State Association of Nigeria, USA, Inc. (AKISAN), Governor Eno commended the group for preserving cultural values and fostering unity among the diaspora.

He urged members to adopt a model of “backward integration,” mirroring diaspora communities such as the Chinese and Indians, by transferring technology, fostering business partnerships, and promoting tourism.

The governor cited attractions including Ikot Abasi’s historic castle, ONNA’s pottery industry, and Ikot Ekpene’s raffia craft as untapped economic assets.

Governor Eno highlighted the example of Itawan James, a U.S.-trained professional who returned to establish the Arise Senior Citizens’ Centre, encouraging others to follow her lead.

He also announced plans to host the 2026 AKISAN Convention in Uyo and redeemed a \$5,000 pledge from last year’s dialect competition.

Unveiling tourism-focused projects, he revealed plans for Arise Resorts a mini-Disneyland with luxury facilities alongside a 5,000-seater international conference centre, a five-star hotel, a shopping mall, and a hospital.

AKISAN President Mbong Ekiko thanked the governor for his support and assured continued collaboration on the state’s Arise Agenda.

The three-day convention featured a Governor’s Townhall Meeting, Women’s Summit, Children’s Summit, and Business and Technology Summit, with attendees from across the U.S. and Nigeria.

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The Akwa Ibom delegation included Information Commissioner Aniekan Umanah, former SSG Emmanuel Ekuwem, Inemesit Uwah, and Itawan James.