Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting and rewarding young professionals who partner with the government to promote the state’s image and advance its tourism and blue economy agenda under the ARISE Agenda.
The governor stated this while speaking with Government House reporters after inspecting a filming location for the movie The Black Book 2 (Old Scores) at Ishiet Beach/Market in Uruan Local Government Area.
He commended the film’s producer and director, Mr. Editi Effiong, for his talent, vision, and creativity in showcasing Akwa Ibom’s tourism potential and contributing to the state’s economic development.
Governor Eno urged young Akwa Ibomites to avoid divisive tendencies and instead draw inspiration from the achievements of successful indigenes by contributing to the growth of the state’s tourism and blue economy sectors.
“The impression is amazing, seeing that we have one of our own trying to pull the world’s attention down here.
“I want to thank and encourage him, and also let our young people see that Akwa Ibom has what it takes to draw global interest.
“It all depends on perspective. Someone may look at this place and see only an abandoned swamp. Another person looks at the same place and creates a great movie that markets Akwa Ibom to the world,” he said.
The governor pledged continued support and collaboration with Effiong and other creative young citizens to help them excel in their fields.
“We are going to work with him. Editi is a young man I know very well. This is why I encourage our people in the diaspora: let’s partner. Come back home, bring back what you’ve learned, and let’s build together.
“If you consider the number of people who have visited the state because of this film, the talents and calibre of actors involved, you’ll see that this young man deserves an award and our support,” he added.
In his remarks, the producer and director, Editi Effiong, thanked Governor Eno for his visionary leadership and commitment to tourism development.
He appreciated the state government for providing a welcoming and tourism-friendly environment, supported by improved road infrastructure and modern facilities, which he said make Akwa Ibom one of Nigeria’s most attractive filming locations.
