The Akwa Ibom State Government has called on indigenes in the diaspora to return home with their ideas and invest in sectors that promote the state’s local talents, culture, and tourism potential.
Governor Umo Eno who made the call during a visit to a movie location in Uruan Local Government Area, pledged his encouragement, support and collaboration with young Akwa Ibomites to enable them rise to the zenith of their calling.
The visit of Governor Umo Eno to Ishiet Adadiah, a community known for its stagnant river, oil stained shoreline, and mostly fishing population, has been tipped as a strong addition to the state’s growing appeal in the entertainment industry.
The community is seen as a natural film destination, offering realistic settings that enhance visual storytelling.
The community, which is currently hosting a movie production, had the Governor urging filmmakers to tap into the rich resources and cultural assets found in local communities to better project African stories.
Governor Eno charged young Akwa Ibomites to shun divisive tendencies, be inspired and emulate the creative effort of successful Akwa Ibom sons and daughters by joining hands to develop the tourism.
“The impression is amazing, seeing that we have one of our own trying to pull the world down here.
“I would love to thank and encourage him, and to let our young people see that Akwa Ibom has what it takes to drag the world’s attention
“It depends on what you see. Someone can see this place and write one story about a swamp that has been abandoned and make all the noise. Another person sees this place and makes a great movie out of it that will market this place to the world and is able to attract the attention because of the work he has done here,” he said.
The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to developing and supporting local talents by providing the resources and platforms needed for the entertainment industry to thrive in the state.
” We are going to work with him. Editi is a young man I have known very well. This is one thing I say to our people in the diaspora, let’s partner. Come back home, whatever you see out there, bring it back here, and let’s work together.
“I think that is the story, and I am really impressed. If you know the number of people that have visited this state in the course of this film, the talents, and the caliber of artists that have been here, then this young man deserves an award and our support,” he added.
Movie producers, Editi Effiong and ace comedian/actor, Bright Okpocha (Basket mouth), who interacted with newsmen said their choice of the state as the movie location was due to its peaceful and safe environment, numerous tourist attractions, and well accessible roads that made travel to various shooting locations easier.
They expressed gratitude to the Government for creating a hospitable and tourism friendly ecosystem to enhance talent exploration through the provision of good road network and quality modern facilities which distinguished the state as one of the most treasured locations in the country.
