Abia govt vows to boost state economy through tourism

The Abia State government has vowed to retrieve dilapidated Federal Government tourist centres in the state and turn them into profitable ventures.

The Senior Special Assistance to Governor Alex Otti, on Tourism and Entertainment, Martins Justice, said the move was geared towards revamping the state economy through tourism.

Justice who spoke on Wednesday in Umuahia, the state capital, said they intend to leverage the theme of the 2023 World Tourism Day which focused on green investments and tourism, to project the rich tourist and cultural potential of the state to the world.

He pointed out that tourism can boost the economy of the state, given its ability to promote the green economy and lifestyle of the residents of the state.

He said, “Governor Alex Otti is positioned to drive a regional and national tourism growth and is poised to strive to position Abia as a safe destination of choice for quality entertainment, leisure, and tourism, this little drops can already be seen in the lightning up of major Abia Cities within the past few weeks and remedial works on connecting roads within the cities, these efforts are to foster sense of security and a round the clock economic drive for the state.

“Upon resumption of office, I have taken the time to study and understand the key challenges of the tourism sector in Abia State, that also includes the dilapidated tourist sites, the existing capacity gaps within the sector, and challenges of hospitality institutions within the state, and we are jointly developing a blueprint for action in achieving the mandate of Dr. Alex Otti’s led administration drive for a more robust and inclusive economy.

“Tourism is not just about visiting new places; it’s about forging connections, understanding different cultures, and appreciating the incredible diversity of our world. It transcends borders and fosters a sense of unity among people.

“It has the power to break down stereotypes, promote tolerance, and build bridges of understanding. In a world where conflicts and divisions often dominate headlines, tourism becomes a force for peace and harmony.

“Yet, the impact of tourism extends far beyond cultural exchanges. It is a formidable driver of economic growth, providing livelihoods to millions of people around the globe.

“Small and large businesses, from local artisans to international hotel chains, rely on the tourism industry for their sustenance. As we emerge from the challenges posed by the global pandemic and insecurity, tourism can be a crucial catalyst for economic recovery and resilience,” he concluded.

Abia govt vows to boost state economy through tourism

Gov Otu reopens Marina Resort, lifts ban on scrap metal activities

Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River State has ordered the reopening of the Marina Resort, a tourist and leisure site, which was shut down over an accident that happened two months ago.

Otu disclosed this in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Emmanuel Ogbeche on Wednesday in Calabar.

It would be recalled that three medical students drowned in the resort on Saturday, June 24 during the National Convention of Medical Students hosted by the University of Calabar, when a number of them went for a boat cruise.

The governor stated that the order to reopen the resort was with immediate effect.

Read Also: Gov Otu bans ‘Okada’ activities in Calabar

In the same vein, the governor has lifted the ban on the activities of scrap metal operators in the state.

This followed the embargo placed by the state government in July to check incessant theft and vandalism of infrastructure in Cross River.

“Companies willing to carry out scrap metal activities must be guided fully by the following laid down rules such as registration with the Scrap Metal Regulatory Agency of the State.

“Obtain a valid operational license, a valid form of identification from the agency and obtain an approved location for their operations,” the governor was quoted as adding.

(NAN)

Gov Otu reopens Marina Resort, lifts ban on scrap metal activities

The Cross River State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Development, Mr Eric Anderson has said that no fewer than 10 countries are expected to participate in the 2022 edition of the Annual Calabar Carnival.

Anderson disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that after a two-year break caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the carnival is set to be staged from Dec. 1 to Dec. 31 2022.

The commissioner also said that so far, 20 states of the federation have indicated interest to participate in the carnival.

He said that the event will feature different song and stage productions, award ceremonies, choreography, music, power week, bikers day, beauty Pageant, street parties, beach soccer, and old school parties, among others.

He added that Mercy Chinwo, Joe Praize, Jimmy D Psalmist, Moses Bliss, local-based artists, and various choir bands have also been slated to perform at the event.

“For two years, there was a global issue that did not allow events across International lines to take place and for us, we are resuming as most big events around the world had their carnival a few months ago.

“Cross River is Nigeria’s tourism destination, so we are ready with exciting events from Dec. 1 to Dec. 31.

“For the last two years we did not hold the carnival, we had to sit back and review and look at ways to up the game.

“One of the aspects we realised is that we had a lot of people that want to be revellers in our carnival bands and so the size increased.

“So we had to create two more bands from the five bands we had to make it seven, so for this year we will be having seven bands to be competing,” he said.

The commissioner added that adequate security measures had been put in place to ensure the protection of the lives of participants and visitors coming to the state.

The carnival holds every December and was declared by the then governor of Cross River, Mr Donald Duke as an activity to mark the Christmas celebration yearly.

The quality of the festival has grown over the years making it Nigeria’s biggest carnival and an internationally recognized festival.

10 countries to participate in 2022 Calabar Carnival