By: Moses Praise
…A Historic Step in Cultural Preservation
By: Moses Praise
On 18 April, communities around the globe will come together to celebrate World Heritage Day, an occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting the protection of sites of historical significance. The observance of World Heritage Day dates back to 1983, when the General Conference of UNESCO adopted the idea, leading to the establishment of the International Day for Monuments and Sites. Initially celebrated on 18 April, this day serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage in fostering mutual respect and understanding among peoples and nations.
In a monumental step towards cherishing its own cultural identity, as the world observes this remarkable day, Akwa Ibom State stands poised to make history with its inaugural celebration of this significant occasion. The theme, “Cultural Heritage and Economic Development: Optimising the Tourism Component of the ARISE Agenda,” resonates deeply with the aspirations of Akwa Ibom, a state rich in culture and poised for economic transformation through tourism.
The event, which aims to bring together cultural enthusiasts, historians, and community leaders from various parts of the state, will create an opportunity to highlight the unique cultural assets of Akwa Ibom. Bolstering the ongoing efforts to preserve its rich heritage, it will take place on 19 April 2025 at the prestigious Nelson Mandela Hall of Watbridge Hotel, IBB Avenue, Uyo, featuring His Excellency, Governor Pastor Umo Eno, as the Special Guest of Honour.
This celebration arrives at a crucial time for Akwa Ibom State, which seeks to highlight its unique cultural attributes while harnessing them to stimulate economic growth. Under the insightful leadership of Dr. Anieti Udofia, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, the Ministry has established a robust framework that connects cultural heritage preservation with economic initiatives. Dr. Udofia has been a driving force behind the integration of tourism strategies within the context of the state’s broader economic development agenda.
The state government, under the forward-thinking leadership of Governor Umo Eno, Ph.D., has demonstrated its commitment to cultural and economic development through a series of initiatives designed to optimise the tourism industry. Governor Eno has consistently expressed that a flourishing tourism sector can create jobs, empower local communities, and drive sustainable development. “Our cultural heritage is a wealth that must be shared, preserved, and utilised. By celebrating our heritage, we are building the foundation for economic prosperity.”
The World Heritage Day celebration in Akwa Ibom promises to be a vibrant showcase of the state’s rich traditions, featuring exhibitions of local crafts, performances by traditional musicians and dancers, and educational workshops that engage the community. These festivities not only commemorate Akwa Ibom’s heritage but also underline the potential for tourism to be leveraged as a catalyst for development.
Moreover, the event will serve as a platform for dialogues among stakeholders, including artisans, cultural practitioners, business owners, and policymakers, fostering collaboration aimed at enhancing the state’s tourism offerings. This collaboration is geared towards creating sustainable practices that protect Akwa Ibom’s cultural sites while making them accessible to visitors and tourists.
As Akwa Ibom State embarks on this historic celebration, it signifies a step towards a future where cultural pride and economic development go hand in hand. The combination of focused governmental support, visionary leadership, and community engagement positions the state as a burgeoning hub for cultural tourism.
The inaugural World Heritage Day celebration is more than a milestone; it is a clarion call for Akwa Ibom’s residents to unite in preserving their cultural identity while creating opportunities for growth and development. In doing so, Akwa Ibom not only honours its rich heritage but also paves the way for a vibrant economic future, where tourism plays an essential role in the state’s ARISE Agenda.
As the state prepares to unfurl its cultural tapestry to the world on 19 April 2025, the hope is that this celebration ignites a renewed passion for heritage that resonates beyond today, inspiring generations to come to embrace and celebrate their cultural history.
