News
RMAFC Chairman Visits Arise Resort in Uyo, Commends Governor Umoh Eno’s Visionary Leadership
Joel Ajayi
The Chairman, Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has applauded the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno Bassey (PhD), for the transformational development of the Arise Resort Project in Uyo, describing it as a model of visionary leadership and sustainable development.
Dr. Shehu, who led a high-powered delegation of Honourable members and some management staff on a working visit to the site, on Wednesday 30th April, 2025, expressed deep admiration for the State Government’s efforts in reclaiming over 70 hectares of severely eroded land and transforming it into a thriving eco-tourism and economic hub.
“We are truly amazed by what we have seen here today,” Dr Shehu said. “This is more than just land reclamation—it is about converting a tragedy into an opportunity for economic growth and social transformation. It takes intellect, vision, and commitment to lead such a project, and I must commend Governor Umoh Eno and his capable team.” He added.
He assured the Akwa Ibom State Government of the Commission’s support. He said, “When we see good projects, we stand by them. We will look at your request passionately and make the necessary recommendations to support you in completing this remarkable initiative.”
In his remarks, Governor Umoh Eno welcomed the RMAFC team and took them through a visual presentation of the evolution of the site—from an erosion-ravaged wasteland to a world-class resort. He appealed to the Commission for continued support, noting that the state government alone can not bear the cost of such a monumental development.
“We’ve invested billions of Naira to reclaim this land, but if we stop there, we risk creating ungoverned spaces that could become security threats,” said the Governor. “We are building this resort not just as an infrastructure project but as part of our long-term economic diversification strategy, anchored on tourism and the digital economy. We want to make this a destination for conferences, leisure, and innovation.”
The governor also disclosed that a formal request had been sent to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to commission the project upon completion.
The visit concluded with a tour of the facility by the RMAFC delegation, during which the Chairman and his team reiterated their support and pledged to advocate for federal assistance to enable the state government complete the project.
The Arise Resort is envisioned to become a premier destination for conferences, recreation, and digital innovation, making it a key pillar in Akwa Ibom’s non-oil economic development plan.
Foreign news
Diplomatic Community in Nigeria Joins Italian Envoy in National Day Celebration
By Joel Ajayi
It was a vibrant evening of joy, connection, and cultural celebration as the Acting Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, hosted members of Nigeria’s diplomatic community in Abuja to commemorate Italy’s National Day, la Festa della Repubblica.
Held in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, the event was a memorable gathering marked by laughter, heartfelt exchanges, and a shared appreciation for the enduring ties between Italy and Nigeria.
In his address, Mr. Foti described the occasion as a time to reflect on the core values that define Italy: liberty, democracy, justice, and the enduring creativity and resilience of its people.
“It is a day to celebrate our rich history, our unparalleled cultural heritage, and our contributions to art, science, and innovation,” he said. “But beyond Italy, today we also celebrate the strong and growing bonds between the Republic of Italy and the Federal Republic of Nigeria — our economies, our cultures, and above all, our people.”
The ambassador emphasized the depth of the bilateral relationship, recalling that diplomatic ties between Italy and Nigeria were established on February 20, 1960. He noted that since the 1970s and 1980s, Nigeria has become a second home for many Italians who have contributed significantly across various sectors.
“We are proud to be part of this welcoming and vibrant society,” he said. “I have personally witnessed the dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and warmth of the Nigerian people, as well as their hospitality toward the Italian community.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Foti expressed optimism about the future of Italy-Nigeria relations, pointing to untapped opportunities for deeper economic cooperation, technological collaboration, and cultural and academic exchange.
“Nigeria is a cultural powerhouse, a leader in Africa and globally in art, literature, and film,” he remarked. “Italy, with its deep-rooted cultural legacy, is eager to expand its engagement with Africa, and particularly with Nigeria.”
He acknowledged the growing Nigerian interest in Italian culture — from fashion and design to cinema and tourism — while noting that Italy hosts the third-largest Nigerian diaspora community globally, after the United States and the United Kingdom.
The ambassador also highlighted the countries’ cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, peace and security, migration, and human trafficking. Both nations are signatories to the Paris Agreement and active participants in global policy dialogues.
“Our relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding,” he noted. “We see this in our economic ties, cultural exchanges, love for football, and the increasing number of Nigerians who study and travel to Italy, as well as Italians drawn to Nigeria’s rich history and culture.”
He pointed out the many shared qualities between Italians and Nigerians, from strong family values and communal bonds to a vibrant fashion industry and a dynamic film sector.
“We are both historically migrant societies that have achieved success abroad while keeping close ties to our homeland,” Mr. Foti said. “We share humor, resilience, and a deep appreciation for life’s ironies.”
Addressing the issue of stereotypes, he cited renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, saying: “The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the support of Nigerian authorities and all who attended the celebration.
“On behalf of the Italian government and the people of Italy, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who joined us. Your presence is a testament to the strength of our friendship and our shared future.”
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured5 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured5 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News5 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
