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.
Signed
Maryam Umar Yusuf, mnipr
Head, Information and Public Relations Unit
(RMAFC)
