‘FG, Rivers tourism MoU, step towards sustainable investments’
July 30, 2026 5:46 am
Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa
By Dennis Naku
The member representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Awaji-inombek Abiante has hailed the partnership between the federal and Rivers State governments for the development of culture, tourism and creative economy in the oil rich state.
Abuabte, noted that the agreement will open up his constituency for sustainable investments in culture and tourism that would turn around the local economy and lead to increased state revenue.
Recall that the apex government and the Rivers State government had on Monday July 27, 2026, signed a MoU for the development of tourism, arts, culture and creative industries.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Siminalayi Fubara had explained that the agreement will reposition the state for greater investments in culture and tourism as well as promote the vast ecotourism prospects in Andoni Local Government Area and other parts of the state.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Mrs Hannatu Musawa, had emphasised that the Renewed Hope Cultural Project will take advantage of the cultural and tourism potentials of Rivers State to expand investments in the sector.
Abiante recalled his interventions and moves aimed at unlocking the rich cultural potentials of his constituency.
He stated, “While I welcome this move like every member of my constituents – the Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency, I’m particularly delighted that my years of struggle and relentless efforts in drawing the attention of government, national and international development agencies to the cultural and tourism potentials of our people is gradually paying off.”
He expressed optimism that the MoU will revolutionize the culture and tourism in his constituency, saying “as envisioned, the centre to be sited in Opobo town will not only serve as research centre for historical studies of the ancient town but of the entire Niger Delta and beyond.
He equally spoke of his previous moves to draw the attention of development partners to invest in the area.
“I have been in constant communication with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation since 2017 on the need to explore the tourism prospects of Andoni Local Government Area.
“The abundant wildlife, including elephants found within the Andoni environment complemented by natural beaches and serene mangroves are tourism assets that will be unlocked through this agreement”, he stated.
Dennis Naku is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with approximately 19 years of professional experience. He has previously worked with Champion Newspapers and National Mirror Newspaper, reporting across multiple beats. His work reflects extensive newsroom experience and a commitment to professional journalism practice.
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