The Akwa Ibom State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aleph Technical and Advisory Services for the professional management of key government owned hospitality assets in the state.
The signed MoU covers Ibom Icon and Golf Resort, Four Points by Sheraton -Ikot Ekpene, Ibom International Hotel, and the ARISE Palm Resort.
Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno described the partnership as “a strategic step towards repositioning the state’s tourism and hospitality sector to meet international standards and unlock greater economic value.”
He said that Akwa Ibom has “what it takes to become a leading tourism destination” adding that with the right expertise and support, the facilities “would operate more efficiently, attract more visitors, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s internally generated revenue.”
The Governor assured the management of Aleph Technical and Advisory Services of his administration’s full support to ensure successful management of the facilities, in line with the ARISE Agenda.
“We remain committed to building a vibrant tourism economy under the ARISE Agenda” the Governor said.
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The Team Lead of the firm, Jad Shamseddin, said the team spent some days in the state assessing the facilities. He noted that they were built to meet up with international standards.
He outlined the strengths and weaknesses of each facility and expressed confidence that with some adjustments, they would achieve the desired results.
The Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) is expected to be signed after the completion of due diligence.
Economic Diversification
This development aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises economic diversification and sustainable growth.
By strengthening the tourism and hospitality sector, the Akwa Ibom State Government is reinforcing efforts to reduce overdependence on oil revenue, expand non-oil income streams, and build a resilient economy driven by investment, enterprise and job creation.
Members of the Aleph team present at the signing included the Vice President, Food and Beverages, Marc Matar; Director, Development, Aman Raheja; Director, Projects, Fiona Stewart; Head of Technical Design, Joseph Keserwany; and Area Director, IT, Waqar Ashraf.
Akwa Ibom stakeholders present included the Secretary to the State Government; Prince Enobong Uwah; Dean of the College of Commissioners and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affair, Mkpisong Frank Archibong; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom; President General of the ARISE with Renewed Hope Initiative, Uwem Okoko, amongst others.