The Akwa Ibom state Christmas village created over N1 billion in value since it was opened early December.
The village which is set on a huge spread of land at the Cultural Center allows for effective social distancing and respect of COVID-19 protocols.
It has created value of more than N1 Billion Naira since it was opened on the 1st of December.
Commissioner of tourism, Orman Esin who made this known while addressing the visiting team of tour Operators and stakeholders added that the “The Christmas village is a statement to show that Akwa Ibom is ready for the business of tourism”.
He told the team that the rich tourism potentials of the State are now ready for exploitation adding that state has audited its tourism assets and will be launching out with Programs in the New Year to Showcase them to the World.
According to the Commissioner, the Akwa Ibom Christmas Village is the biggest Christmas event of its kind in Africa with the size of its location and potential for growth.
Over 600 vendors attracting thousands of visitors every evening. This will become a must-visit place in Nigeria every December.”
With lots of musical events, drama, games and outdoor catering services, the village has been keeping the bustling spirit of Christmas high in Uyo.
Meanwhile, the state has commenced the process for the creation of a legal framework for Ibom Industrial City to help harness the benefits that will accrue from the Ibom Deep Seaport project recently approved by the Federal Government.
Accordingly, a bill is to be sent to the state assembly for the commencement of legislative processes over the industrial city which is expected to house the port project
Ini Ememobong, commissioner for information and strategy who made this known in Uyo, the state capital said the decision was reached at the state executive council presided over by Governor. Udom Emmanuel.
“Council received a memorandum on the Ibom Industrial City which demanded the creation of a legal framework to establish the Ibom Industrial City, to help harness the benefits set to accrue from the Deep sea port and the concomitant industrial city.
“The memo specifically sought council’s permission to forward a bill on the subject matter to the House of Assembly for legislative action.
“Council approved the memo and directed that it be forwarded to the Akwa Ibom State House Of Assembly.
” This industrial city is planned to strategically assist the maximization of the benefits of the approved Seaport,” he stated.
Ememobong who did not disclose when work would begin on the ibom deep Seaport estimated to cost over $300 billion said the council also approved the site and prerequisite matters for the construction of a mass housing estate in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria and Family Homes Funds limited.
He said the council directed the ministry of housing to facilitate the quick commencement of the mass housing scheme.
