Akwa Ibom Ministry Proposes N16bn For Tourism Reforms

The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism has proposed N16 billion for tourism sector reforms in the 2026 budget.

The commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, disclosed this during bilateral discussions with the 2026 Budget Committee at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Giving a breakdown of the proposals, Dr Udofia said the capital expenditure would gulp N13 billion, with overhead cost pegged at N2 billion, and personnel costs projected at N554 million.

“Tourism is a strategic pillar of the Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, and the 2026 budget will focus largely on the development of major tourism hubs across the state, including Ikot Abasi, Itu, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo local government area,” he explained.

He lauded the governor for prioritising the growth of the tourism sector, describing it as “a globally thriving industry with vast potential for revenue generation, wealth creation and youth employment.”

He, therefore, appealed to the Budget Committee to give due consideration to the proposal with a view to addressing the challenges confronting the sector to pave the way for tourists, visitors and investors to make the state their number one tourism destination.

Responding, the chairman of the 2026 Budget Committee and commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Nsikan Linus Nkan, commended Udofia for his detailed presentation and assured that “the proposal will receive critical review for favourable consideration.”