Entertainment
GOV. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has said that tourism and entertainment could be tools for national unity in the country if properly harnessed.
Eno, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Enobong Uwah, said this while declaring open the 2024 Christmas Unplugged season two in Uyo on Monday.
The governor expressed the commitment of the state government in supporting the sector to grow from strength to strength.
He added that it was the belief of the state government that this year’s experience would attract more tourists and businesses.
The governor described peace as an essential ingredient in growing both the tourism and entertainment sectors, as tourists would feel free to travel to tourism destinations across the country.
“Akwa Ibom is a peaceful state and is named after God, and Christmas is all about God.
“Christmas is when you have peace and goodwill to all men. It is time for all of us to show love for our fellow man.
“If we can do this by being here together, singing, and dancing, it will go a long way to continue to unify Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.
“At this point in our country, we need peace; once we have peace, I believe every other thing is going to be added.
“With celebrations like this to honour our Lord Jesus Christ, I believe he, in his infinite mercy, will bring blessings to our land,” Eno said.
The governor called on miscreants to steer clear of the venue as the law enforcement agents would deal decisively with troublemakers.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Charles Udoh, said this year’s Christmas Unplugged season two was ready to offer the best of relaxation and entertainment with notable artists.
Udoh said the event would be graced by local and renowned artists to perform and entertain the audience.
He said that the event would create jobs directly and indirectly for about 1,400 persons for a minimum of 32 days.
According to him, the event was jointly organised in partnership with MTN, Guinness, Champion Breweries, and a lot of others.
“Beyond entertainment, beyond the entrepreneurial aspect of it, we also have an opportunity where micro and small entrepreneurs of Akwa Ibom, currently 210 of them, are here in their numbers to hone their skills.
“In 32 days all these entrepreneurs will hone their skills and make profits.
“There will be the village square, where all the 31 Local Government Areas will showcase their culture and thrill the audience,” Udoh said.
He assured participants of adequate security for vendors, tourists, and all those doing business in the village. (NAN)
2nd December, 2024.
C.E.
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