By Solomon Okpo
The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism has proposed a total budgetary allocation of ₦16 billion for its programmes and activities in the 2026 fiscal year.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, disclosed this on Wednesday, August 20, during the ongoing bilateral discussions with the 2026 Budget Committee at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
Breaking down the proposal, Dr. Udofia said the capital expenditure accounts for ₦13 billion, while overhead costs stand at ₦2 billion, with personnel costs projected at ₦554 million.
He stressed that tourism is a strategic pillar of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, and the 2026 budget will focus largely on the development of major tourism hubs across the state, including Ikot Abasi, Itu, Mkpat Enin, and Eastern Obolo.
Udofia further lauded Governor Eno for prioritising the growth of the tourism sector, describing it as a globally thriving industry with vast potential for revenue generation, wealth creation, and youth employment. He appealed to the Budget Committee to give due consideration to the proposal.
Responding, the Chairman of the 2026 Budget Committee and Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Nsikan Linus Nkan, commended Udofia for his detailed presentation and assured that the proposal would receive critical review for favourable consideration.
The Commissioner was accompanied to the budget presentation by his Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Grace Akpan, alongside Directors in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
