Nigeria’s Tourism, Aviation Sector Gets Major Boost from Arise Palm Resort – Minister

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has hailed the ongoing Arise Palm Resort project in Akwa Ibom State as a “mind-blowing” infrastructure marvel. According to the Minister, the facility is strategically positioned to serve as a major tourism anchor for the recently upgraded Victor Attah International Airport.

During an extensive inspection of the site in Uyo, the state capital, on December 17, Keyamo emphasised the critical intersection between air travel and the hospitality industry.

Keyamo said, “His visit to the State was to ensure that the necessary infrastructure was in place to support the smooth take-off of operations at the Victor Attah International Airport following its recent upgrade to international status.”

The minister underscored that the success of an international airport often depends on the quality of the surrounding commercial and leisure infrastructure.

“Aviation is tied to tourism and commerce. Tourism and commerce are integral parts of aviation. So, we thought it fit to come and see the supporting infrastructure available at the new international airport that is about to take off,” he said.

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The Arise Palm Resort, which features an artificial lake fed by natural springs, luxury villas, floating bars, and high-end restaurants, earned high marks from the minister for its scale and ambition.

“This one we have here, the Arise Palm Resort, is indeed huge and mesmerising. What is here is one of the best facilities we will have in this country. The hotel is a proper family resort to support our international airport business,” he stated.

A notable highlight of the project is its environmental transformation. What was once an area plagued by erosion is being reclaimed and reimagined as a premium destination.

Keyamo commended Governor Umo Eno’s vision, noting, “Governor Eno wants to turn this place into a separate tourist attraction, different from the rest of the country. And we are already there.”

He continued, “This was an erosion spot, but today, it is spectacularly being transformed into a world-class tourist hub. It is mind-blowing. It is like a tenth wonder of the world. I just want to congratulate the people of Akwa Ibom State in advance. The donation is significant and beneficial to them. It will support the international airport. There is a symbiotic relationship between aviation and tourism. And, with this boom, it is going to be one of the busiest international airports in Nigeria,” he assured.

Governor Umo Eno, who accompanied the minister, expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress but urged patience regarding the launch date. While the dry season has allowed for accelerated construction, the governor clarified that the resort will not open this December.

“Work has gone up well, as we expected, but we still will not open in December. I like this project to be thoroughly finished. I do not like what is called ‘soft opening’. When we open, let us open in full,” the Governor said.

Governor Eno promised that a formal opening date would be revealed soon, stating: “Very soon, we will announce a more stable date for its official opening. Let’s not rush things. I am impressed with what I have seen here in the last month. We will soon get it done and put it to use as expected.”

The inspection delegation included the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, along with various state executive members and industry leaders.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the Arise Palm Resort located? 

The resort is situated in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, in Southern Nigeria.

What are the main features of the resort? 

The facility includes an artificial lake supplied by natural spring water, a clubhouse, luxury villas, floating bars and restaurants, and various sporting and recreational facilities.

How does the resort benefit the Victor Attah International Airport? 

The resort provides the high-quality hospitality and leisure infrastructure necessary to support international travellers, boosting the airport’s commercial viability and tourism appeal.

Why was the December opening postponed? 

Governor Umo Eno opted against a “soft opening”, stating his preference for the project to be 100% complete and fully operational before welcoming the public.

What was the site used for before the resort construction? 

Previously an erosion-prone zone, the area has undergone an environmental transformation to become a tourism hub.