Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has revoked all illegal land titles at the Tropicana Layout in Uyo, restoring the area to its original master plan.
Speaking to reporters after inspecting the ARISE Shopping City site on Tuesday, Eno warned individuals against encroaching on or acquiring government land for personal use.
“Even though the land has not been used for years, there has been a lot of encroachment. That is why I revoked every title and activity that was not part of the original plan,” he said.
The governor said his administration is committed to developing a world-class tourism ecosystem, building on existing projects such as the Ibom International Convention Centre, the 200-room Ibom International Hotel, and the new Ibom International Shopping City.
“We are trying to revive tourism. Akwa Ibom has all it takes to be Nigeria’s top tourist destination,” Eno stated.
He explained that the state’s tourism plan covers Uyo, Ikot Abasi, Ikot Ekpene, and Oron, adding that future projects would include cultural, agricultural, medical, and aviation tourism.
The ARISE Shopping City, according to him, is designed to attract international brands and provide tourists with accommodation, shopping, and leisure options in one location.
“The Shopping City will make it possible for visitors to enjoy quality leisure and recreation without leaving the state,” he said.
Eno added that the project is expected to be completed within 12 months and will further boost Akwa Ibom’s tourism and investment profile.
