The Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Council; Hon. (Barr.) Etetim Onuk has appealed to the Akwa Ibom State Governor; Pastor Umo Eno to consider developing the vast tourism sites in Itu Local Government Area, particularly as it would be in line with his Arise Agenda and his promise to boost the tourist sector.
The Itu Council boss stated this on Friday during the State Governor’s inspection visit to some historical landmarks in Itu Local Government Area. He noted that the Local Government has unique sites with rich historical values and significant cultural background that can be turned to money spinning resorts that would attract tourists from within and outside Nigeria.
Barr. Onuk passionately appealed to the Governor to consider converting those sites to historical resort that would not only create enormous employment opportunity for the people but also generate revenue for the government. He disclosed the Local Government’s readiness to partner with the state government to revamp the tourism sub-sector. He particularly stressed the need to establish a conservation centre to carter for the rare sclater’s guenon at Ikot Uso Akpan as well as protect other endangered species.
Speaking during the visit, the Govevenor who was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism; Mr. Charles Udo described the scenary and landsmarks in Itu Local Government as remarkable and unique, reiterated his promise to invest in tourism as a viable industry that can stimulate the state’s economy and create numerous opportunities for all.
Sites visited include; Exploration of tourism sites in Itu LGA by the AKS Governor, Pst. Umo Bassey Eno through the Ministry of Tourism led by the Honorable Commissioner, Sir Charles Udoh
The sites visited include; the historic Cruickshank residence Oku Iboku, the moribund Leper Colony, Mary Slessor hospital at Obot Itu, Mary Slessor Chapel, and the famous Queen’s Beach.
