Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has emerged as Nigeria’s Tourism Governor of the Year.
He floored two other Governors, Biodun Abayomi of Ekiti and Bassey Otu of Cross River State.
Similarly, Akwa Ibom State has been named the most active tourism State in Nigeria.
Governor Eno emerged as the best-after foremost Tourism Magazine. ATQ News/Travelers Magazine last week, shortlisted him among three nominees and asked Nigerians to vote for their winner.
In a letter addressed to the Akwa-Ibom State Governor, the organizers said, “On behalf of the Board of ATQ News/Travellers Magazine, we wish to inform you, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, has been chosen as the Best Tourism Governor of the year 2023, in Nigeria.
The letter signed by the project Director, Ikechi Ukoh, said further that, “Nigerians have recognized and appreciated the hard work and dedication you have demonstrated in promoting tourism in Akwa Ibom State.
“Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the acknowledgement from tourism professionals who have voted you as the Best Tourism Governor of the Year 2023 in Nigeria.
“After releasing the shortlist of three Governors, we asked the Public to vote and it constituted 40% of the vote while Tourism 100 Club members constituted 60% of the vote.
“Your commitment to enhancing the tourism sector and showcasing the beauty of Akwa Ibom State is commendable, and we applaud your achievements in driving tourism growth and development in the region.
“Since 1996 Travellers Awards has had annual awards for the Best Performers in the industry.
“Travellers Magazine is the first travel magazine published in West Africa since 1993.
“Atqnews.com is the Premier Travel news website in Africa published since 2014.
“The award was set up to recognize individuals and firms who have excelled in Aviation, Travel and Tourism; and who also have contributed immensely to the growth of Aviation, Hotels Business, Tourism and Travels in Nigeria.”
Since the assumption of office in 2023, Governor Eno has not relented in boosting the tourism drive in Akwa Ibom.
Currently building a world-class resort and park at the previously erosion-ravaged ravine of Dominic Utuk Avenue-Etim Umana Street, the Governor has also erected a standard amphitheater at the Unity Park for all manner of public shows.
The amphitheater has hosted a series of events since it first hosted the state’s Carol festival last December.
But the tourism-friendly Governor is also currently building a tourism park along Udo Udoma Avenue, among others.
These account for the emergence of the State as the most tourism-active state in the country.
The tourism award will be presented on the 19th of April at the Wonders of Nigeria Expo
