Idongesit Ashameri, Uyo
In a bid to honor the history of Nwaniba and surrounding communities, which served as a major slave route in Nigeria, the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism is set to host its first-ever Ibom Boat Regatta and Fishing Festival in celebration of World Tourism Day (WTD) on September 27, 2024.
Themed “Tourism and Peace,” the 2024 WTD celebration aims to position sustainable tourism as a transformative driver for communities by creating jobs, fostering inclusion, and boosting local economies.
Speaking with journalists in Uyo on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Charles Udoh, acknowledged the peaceful nature of the communities hosting Ibom Icon Hotel and Marina Beach. He pledged the state government’s commitment to reciprocating the hospitality shown by these communities.
Udoh revealed that the regatta and fishing festival will showcase Akwa Ibom’s rich maritime heritage while promoting tourism, culture, and peace. Key highlights of the event will include the unveiling of a fully restored slave boat, symbolizing a significant yet painful chapter in the region’s history as part of the transatlantic slave trade.
This restoration project, funded by the National Association of Akwa Ibom USA Incorporated, demonstrates ongoing efforts to preserve the state’s heritage. In addition, a newly established Slave Memorial Park, initiated by a local philanthropist, will also be officially commissioned.
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“These projects are part of the state’s broader vision to harness Akwa Ibom’s historical and cultural assets,” Udoh said. “Governor Umo Eno’s administration is committed to turning our rich heritage into a major economic driver. This year’s World Tourism Day focuses on peace, and through events like the regatta, we are fostering unity within the Marina community and beyond.”
The Commissioner highlighted the government’s preparations for the event, including strong security measures. “We have partnered with the Nigerian Navy to acquire 14 gunboats to secure our waterways. Additionally, we are introducing a fully air-conditioned luxury ferry service, expected to arrive soon, to enhance marine transport and attract tourists,” he added.
The festival, featuring cultural displays, tug-of-war contests, and fishing competitions, aims to stimulate economic activity in coastal communities and attract tourists and investors. Participation will be by invitation, with Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, serving as the Special Guest of Honour.
Udoh also outlined other efforts to position Akwa Ibom as a tourism hub, including the preservation and restoration of significant historical sites such as the amalgamation site, locations tied to the 1929 Women’s War, and the Mary Slessor House.
In line with the state’s tourism development agenda, Udoh revealed that an erosion-ravaged area is being transformed into a world-class tourist center. The site will feature a nine-hole golf course, an artificial lake with a central restaurant, luxury chalets, a football field, basketball courts, floodlights for night sports, and a children’s park. These facilities are designed to provide visitors with a comprehensive leisure, sports, and relaxation experience.
To further streamline tourism activities, Udoh announced that on World Tourism Day 2024, the state will unveil an official tourism website, discoverakwaibom.com. The platform will feature a directory of accredited tour operators and hotels with their grading, ensuring tourists are protected from scammers. “The listing will be reviewed annually,” he added. The website will also assist in gathering data and conducting trend analysis for future tourism planning.
