Akwa Ibom State government has worked out modalities for the development of Ibeno beach and other tourist sites to boost tourism in the state.
This, the government intends to achieve through a partnership with the Multi-National Oil exploration firm, ExxonMobil Plc.
The State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, disclosed this during the dedication service of Little Masters Goodnews and Goodness, twin babies of the Prelate, Apostle Isaiah Isong, held at The Believers Assembly (Evangelical) Nigeria, Mbiabong Etoi, off Oron Road, Uyo.
He said that the state government had sealed a deal with the oil company to develop tourism and establish Trauma Centre at Immanuel Hospital, Eket but regretted the delay in the take off of the projects.
He noted that the hosting of “Ukapisua” by Ministry of Culture and Tourism and subsequent establishment of a Christmas Village at the beach would facilitate commencement of the project.
The governor was of the opinion that rather than leaving the beach to be occupied by reptiles and other dangerous animals, efforts were being intensified to develop the beach.
He expressed optimism that the project would attract employment, create wealth, open up the state for tourism as well as attract revenue to the state coffers as it is done in the Carribean.
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On the proposed hosting of “Ukapisua Canival,” the governor explained that the Christmas festival did not intend to reinvent idolatry as canvassed in some quarters but to spice up the celebration.
He said it would also encourage outdoor activities in the spirit of the season.
He warned, however, that no masqurade should be allowed to feature at the event.
He particularly lauded the vision of the Culture and Tourism Ministry for organising the “Ukapisua fiesta,” reiterating his administration’s resolve to support the carnival.
Governor Emmanuel also decried the absence of a befitting worship centre in the state, saying that it was unfortunate that religious activities had been held at the state Civic Centre – Ibom Hall, whereas a worship centre would have served that purpose.
He announced plans of his administration to pep-up the infrastructural consolidation drive by laying foundation for an edifice that would be used as a centre of worship.
He added that the ground breaking would take place by January, 21 2018.
The governor said that the International worship centre would compete in capacity with similar centres and serve as tourists site, adding that it would be decorated with outstanding religious symbol to inspire children on Christian living.
The governor appreciated the fathers of faith in the state for their belief and steadfastness in the programmes and projects undertaken by the present administration, saying that he was confident that God spoke through them in November this year, when they got together and adopted him for another term in office.
He thanked God for the gift of the twin babies to Prelate Isong and wife and congratulated the couple for dedicating the children saying that it was in fulfillment of God’s promise in the scriptures, to bless his people with fruits of the womb even at advanced age.
In his sermon, the immediate past state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Cletus Bassey, read from Genesis 21 : 2 and explained that God fulfills promises at appointed time for those who believe in him and implored parents to indulge in prayers for divine guidance to raise their children.
He decried the increase in moral decadence in the society, attributing it to lack of adherence to parental advice by the younger generation while urging children to be obedient to their parents.
The service, which was well attended, featured praise and worship session and rendition of the ‘dakkada’ creed in English and a translated version in Ibibio, French and Latin, by the children ministry of the church, the Believers Bible Children Ministry.
There was also a presentation of Holy Bible to the governor and his wife, Martha.
