Gov. Umo Eno.
By Dianabasi Effiong
A Policy Evaluation and Advocacy Forum 2026 will begin in Uyo on May 14 for government officials, corporate leaders, and academics to discuss Nigeria’s shift from oil dependence to tourism-led growth.
Organised by the Institute of Corporate Leadership and Mentorship (ICLM) in partnership with Appleton Private University and the International Federation of Private Universities, the forum has as its theme, “Beyond Oil: Redefining the Future of Nigeria’s Tourism Industry.”
The event is also expected to assess how policies under the ARISE Agenda can be turned into practical tools for expanding tourism, leveraging Nigeria’s cultural heritage, geography, and hospitality as new drivers of GDP.
According to the ICLM Director General, Apostle Emmanuel Eduongo, the forum aims to create an ecosystem that attracts foreign direct investment through a professionalised tourism sector.
Key participants include the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Akwa Ibom, Dr. Anieti Udofia; the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; eminent scholar, Dr. Saviour Ekpe; economist Martins Umoh; the NUJ Akwa Ibom Council Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, and leaders from the hotel and tour operator sectors.
Speakers will examine the economic case for reallocating capital from oil to tourism, the role of sports and cultural events in drawing international visitors, and the need for infrastructure, service standards, and trained human capital.
Attendees will also visit selected tourism infrastructure in Akwa Ibom to assess how the state is implementing its development model.
Organisers say the forum will mark a turning point in Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy, with conclusions expected to carry global resonance.
