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Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has presented ₦155 million to local council areas across the state as a reward for their participation in the 2024 edition of the Christmas Unplugged festival.

The presentation was held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, over the weekend.

‎ According to a statement, the award, which translates to ₦5 million per local government area, was a fulfilment of a commitment by the state government to support and encourage local governments that showcased their cultural and tourism assets during the festival.

Represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, the governor expressed his administration’s continued commitment to cultural development and grassroots engagements.

‎‎ The commissioner said, “When I was appointed commissioner, one of the first memos I saw on my desk was the proposal for the payment of ₦155 million to local councils, ₦5 million each as a reward for their participation in the last Christmas Unplugged.

“I approached His Excellency with the memo, and before we proceeded on our retreat, he graciously approved the funds to demonstrate good faith and commitment. Today, we are witnessing the fulfillment of that promise.”

‎ Speaking on behalf of the council Chairmen, the Chairman of ALGON and Uyo Council, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, lauded Governor Eno’s investments in the state’s tourism potential.

‎‎ “This is one of the many laudable investments His Excellency has made in this sector. By encouraging local governments to explore and develop their tourism potential, he is laying the groundwork for a vibrant cultural economy.”

Also present at the event was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Grace Akpan, who expressed appreciation for the governor’s unwavering support.

‎‎ “I want to sincerely thank our Governor for his consistent investment in culture and tourism in Akwa Ibom State. His Excellency is deeply passionate about the development of tourism across our communities,” she said.

‎MEANWHILE, Udofia has urged the staff of his ministry to uplift the ARISE Agenda of the state in their daily activities even as he celebrates staff born in the month of April.

The monthly birthday celebration, which has become a regular feature in the ministry, is inspired by the belief that staff happiness and motivation are catalyst to high performance and productivity in service.

Represented by his Permanent Secretary, Mrs Grace Akpan, the commissioner expressed deep appreciation to the staff for their support and dedication towards efficient service delivery of the programmes of the ministry, whereby uplifting the ARISE Agenda.

Udofia prayed to God to bless the April-born staff with long life in good health and prosperity and wished them a happy birthday.