Akwa Ibom Intensifies Countdown To ARISE Palm Resort Launch
Gov Eno Sets September Deadline for ARISE Palm Resort Commissioning
Governor Inspects Project, Urges Contractors to Maintain Momentum
AKWA Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has fixed September 2026 for the official commissioning of the ARISE Palm Resort, expressing confidence that the flagship tourism and hospitality project will be completed on schedule while urging contractors to accelerate work despite the rainy season.
The governor spoke after inspecting the project located along Dominic Utuk Avenue in Uyo, where he assessed the level of progress and interacted with officials overseeing construction.
According to him, the pace of work has strengthened his confidence that the contractors are committed to delivering the project within the stipulated timeframe.
“I believe we can do this in September. We have two months to tidy up, and the rains should not be an excuse,” the governor said.
Resort Positioned as Major Tourism Investment
Governor Eno described the ARISE Palm Resort as one of the administration’s strategic investments aimed at expanding Akwa Ibom’s tourism and hospitality sector while stimulating economic growth, attracting investors and creating employment opportunities.
He explained that the facility is expected to operate at full capacity after commissioning, adding that government has already developed sustainability mechanisms to ensure effective management and long-term viability.
According to him, proper maintenance will remain central to the success of the project.
Focus on Sustainability Beyond Commissioning
The governor observed that many public infrastructure projects across Africa deteriorate shortly after inauguration because maintenance is often neglected.
He assured residents that his administration had already put in place structures that would guarantee professional management of the resort after completion.
“Government has already developed sustainability mechanisms for all major projects under the ARISE Agenda,” he stated.
He stressed that preserving the facility’s quality and commercial value would remain a priority long after commissioning.
Contractor Reports Significant Construction Progress
Managing Director of Bulletine Construction Company, Chief Faysal Harb, assured the governor that construction was progressing according to schedule.
He disclosed that operators would begin taking possession of completed sections from August, while apartments, restaurants and other key facilities were already approaching completion ahead of the planned opening.
Marketing Campaign Already Underway
Destination Marketing Manager for the project, Mrs. Stella Fubara, said preparations had moved beyond construction into operational planning and destination marketing.
She revealed that discussions were already ongoing with prospective operators, vendors and members of the workforce to ensure a seamless commencement of operations after commissioning.
According to project officials, the transition from construction to operations is expected to position the ARISE Palm Resort as one of the state’s leading hospitality destinations.
Project Expected to Boost State Economy
The resort forms part of Governor Eno’s broader ARISE Agenda, which seeks to diversify Akwa Ibom’s economy through investments in tourism, infrastructure and hospitality.
Government officials believe the facility will strengthen the state’s profile as a leisure, conference and investment destination while supporting job creation and increasing internally generated revenue.
The governor was accompanied on the inspection by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; and other senior government officials.
