Stakeholders in tourism industry have reiterated the need for a crime-free society to promote tourism activities across the world.
Addressing a press conference in Uyo, on Wednesday, to mark World Tourism Day on the theme: “Rethinking Tourism”, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom state Hotels Management and Tourism Board, Obong Ini Akpabio, listed crimes capable of threatening tourists including terrorism, banditry and kidnappings.
Akpabio, a former Managing Director of Nanet Hotels, explained the need to create a peaceful environment where tourism business will thrive and add more value to the economy.
“Let me use the occasion of this year’s World Tourism Day to position our country in general and our Stars in particular to rethink tourism.
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“There is need to create a peaceful environment for all of us to eradicate terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and all other vices that negatively affect tourism.”
He observed that Akwa Ibom state government has impacted on tourism sector through Ibom Icon Hotels and Golf Resort, 4 points by Sheraton Hotel, Godswill Akpabio International stadium, Victor Attah International Airport, Tropicana Entertainment centre, Dakkada Smart Building, International Worship Centre, e-library and Ibom Airline.
Akpabio appealed to Governor Udom Emmanuel to explore some historical tourism sites in the state for more revenue, adding that tourism can generate more income for the state than crude oil.
He mentioned those tourist attraction sites as Mary Slessor cave, blue and white river, bridge of no return and Lord Lugard amalgamation house in Ikot Abasi local government area and others.
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