Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has declared that government-owned hospitality facilities will no longer operate at a loss under his watch.
Speaking after an inspection tour of renovation works at the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Governor Eno said the state’s numerous hospitality assets—including Four Points by Sheraton in Ikot Ekpene, the upcoming ARISE Resort, and properties in Lagos and Abuja—must be transformed into profit-making ventures.
“We cannot keep investing so much money only to record deficits because we are chasing international brands. We can be our own brand,” he said.
Governor Eno, who is a Fellow of the Nigerian Hotel and Catering Institute, revealed plans to establish a state hospitality management group to develop a consistent brand identity for all facilities. He urged Akwa Ibom professionals in the hospitality industry to return home and contribute their expertise.
Drawing parallels with the success of Ibom Air, he said: “Five or six years ago, Ibom Air was not a brand, but today, it is one of the best in Africa. We can do the same with our hotels.”
The Governor inspected prototype rooms at Ibom Hotel, noting that the first 40 rooms will be ready by October ahead of December festivities. He also emphasized the need for standardized operations, training, and retraining to sustain quality.
He was accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, members of the State Executive Council, and delivery advisers
