Eno Highlights Tourism, Employment Benefits of Major Uyo Projects
…commends contractors’ pace of work
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has highlighted the economic and employment benefits of the ongoing construction of the International Convention Centre, Ibom International Hotel and ARISE Shopping City projects in Uyo.
Governor Eno said the projects had engaged more than 2,000 people daily over the past year, contributing to economic activities while also supporting peace and security in the state.
The Governor disclosed this on Thursday, September 17, 2026, while speaking with members of the Government House Press Corps after inspecting the ongoing construction works at the three project sites in Uyo.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress of work, noting that the projects represented the realisation of visions initiated by previous administrations.
“I am happy that there is visible progress and we thank God for what we see on ground. The International Hotel and the International Conference Centre were envisaged 16 years ago and I am happy that we are realizing that vision,” Eno said.
The Governor said the projects would contribute to the tourism development and youth empowerment objectives of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.
According to him, the facilities, when completed, would attract tourists, visitors and investors, create employment opportunities for young people and promote Akwa Ibom’s tourism potential internationally.
“The International Convention Centre can take 5,000 people, and there are partitions that would help you segment your meetings. There are twelve breakout rooms, restaurant and other facilities,” he said.
Eno reiterated his administration’s commitment to developing modern tourism infrastructure capable of supporting the state’s growing profile as a tourism destination.
“What we are seeing here is part of development. If this is a state capital, and we want tourists to visit, we must have the facilities to accommodate them by developing those facilities to international standards,” he added.
The Governor also commended the contractors handling the projects for maintaining the pace of work, expressing optimism that the facilities would be completed and commissioned as scheduled for the benefit of Akwa Ibom residents.
The inspection tour was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr Aniefiok Johnson; Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga; Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah; other members of the State Executive Council and government officials.
