50 Things to Do in Akwa Ibom: Private Sector Pushes New Tourism Drive
A bold new initiative is taking shape in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, aimed at positioning the oil-rich region as a premier tourism destination in West Africa.
The project, titled “50 Things to Do in Akwa Ibom,” is a privately driven effort by industry stakeholders to package the state’s cultural heritage, natural attractions, cuisine, and hospitality into a comprehensive travel guide.
The concept was unveiled on Friday in Uyo at a meeting that brought together tour operators, hoteliers, and tourism advocates. At the center of the initiative is the vision to make Akwa Ibom a “must-visit” state for both Nigerians and international holidaymakers.
For decades, Akwa Ibom has been known primarily for oil production. But with global shifts in energy markets and growing interest in cultural tourism, advocates say now is the time to pivot.
“Tourism is the new oil,” said tourism promoter, veteran tour guide, and initiator of the project, Mr. Ubong Ekpe Okon, who has spent 25 years in the industry. “When people visit a state, they want to know what to eat, where to sleep, what to buy, and the unique experiences they can take home. We have everything here but we must market it.”
The travel guide will serve as a “pocket-friendly manual” for visitors, highlighting experiences such as the wetlands of Ibeno, the rolling hills of Itu, and the history of slave trade routes in Oron. It will also feature restaurants, budget hotels, local markets, and even language tips for first-time visitors.
The idea was inspired by lessons from other African countries. After visiting Ghana and the Benin Republic, Ubong said he realized that tourists there are handed guides immediately upon arrival. “We have more attractions than many of these places. What we lack is documentation and promotion,” he said.
The project is not government-funded at least for now. “This is strictly a private sector initiative,” Ubong said. “We are not waiting for government, but we hope they will partner with us.”
The guide is expected to be distributed free at airports, hotels, and major entry points, not only in Nigeria but also across international airports in Dubai, London, and beyond. Stakeholders also want it included in airline seat pockets to ensure global reach.
Initial plans target 3,000 printed copies, supported by subscriptions from hotels, restaurants, and travel businesses whose services will be featured.
Prince Uduak Pedro, State Coordinator of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), called the initiative “long overdue.”
“Many states that take tourism seriously already have travel handbooks. This guide will not just help travelers; it will help the state build its economy,” he said.
Other industry players at the meeting, including Mr. Joseph F. Umoh, Chairman of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), drew comparisons to China and Dubai, where tourism is deliberately curated and aggressively marketed. They argued that Akwa Ibom’s beaches, cultural festivals, unique wildlife, and rich slave trade history could attract thousands of visitors, if properly developed.
According to the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom Hotels and Tourism Board, Mrs. Ime Udo, who was the Special Guest at the unveiling, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., is committed to growing tourism as part of his “Arise Agenda,” which seeks to diversify the state’s economy.
The unveiling of “50 Things to Do in Akwa Ibom” appears to align with that vision, though stakeholders stress that action is needed beyond words.
“Tourism is a chain reaction. It benefits everyone, airlines, hotels, restaurants, artisans, and even roadside sellers. If we get this right, Akwa Ibom can become Nigeria’s tourism capital,” she said.
For now, “50 Things to Do in Akwa Ibom” remains a private effort. But with growing momentum, advocates say it could soon redefine how Akwa Ibom is seen, not just as an oil hub, but as a destination where culture, history, and nature meet.
