To shore-up IGR, Anambra looks to tourism

Anambra State Government intends to shore up its internally generated revenue, through tourism, says Charles Omelu, managing director, Pandora Events Limited, an event management firm.
Anambra has three major tourist sites located at the three senatorial zones of the State, namely Ogbunike cave, in Anambra South senatorial zone, Agulu Lake, in Anambra Central and Owereizukala water fall in Anambra North senatorial zone.
Omelu, who was in Owerri, the Imo State capital to market Anambra at 25, to presidents of South-East city chambers, on the aegis of South-East Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (SECCIMA) stated that the several events slated for the celebration are not for jamboree, but carefully outlined to showcase the potentials of the State.
Speaking exclusively to BUSINESSDAY, he explained that the State has concluded arrangements to host a maiden cultural carnival at the three tourist sites, which would also promote the culture of the people.
The cultural carnival which begins on September 24, 2016 with Central senatorial zone, would feature cultural dances, masquerades and the cuisine of the people. The grand finale will be held in Awka on December 17, where winners from the senatorial zones would perform.
In his words, “It is the intention of the current administration in Anambra State to develop our tourist centres at Egbunike cave, Agulu Lake and Water fall at Owereizukala to shore up the State’s internally generated revenue.
He however solicited sponsorship from Anambra citizens, corporate bodies and friends of the State to mark the 25th anniversary of the State.
“If you know that what Anambra is doing is good, please partner us, because celebration takes away pain and sorrow. We call on all our friends to join us celebrate the State at 25, because peace and security that exists in the State calls for investment in the State.
He also stated that the State Government is offering tax rebates to sponsors in line with the corporate Social Responsibility activities.
“Today we can boast that Anambra State is the most peaceful place to do business in the South-East region and country at large, so, we are calling on our Igbo sons and daughters that have many businesses elsewhere to also invest in the East and especially, Anambra, “he advised.