The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, on Wednesday paid a visit to the Christmas Park in Uyo to assess the level of work done in preparation for the highly anticipated ‘2024 Christmas Unplugged 2.0’ festivities.
The governor who was accompanied by his deputy, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi, Secretary to State Government, Prince Enobong Uwa, Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien and members of the State Executive Council, was received and led on a facility tour by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, in company of the permanent secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Grace Akpan.
Inspecting the facilities, Governor Eno expressed delight at the design of the stage and observed that, with the dry harmattan dust of the Christmas season, there was need to find alternative location, where the 31 local government areas could display their cultural heritage away from the open field during the Sights and Sounds segment of the Christmas Unplugged 2.0.
He commended the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh for the level of work done so far and pledged his commitment towards ensuring a successful completion of the project ahead of the Christmas Unplugged festivities.
In his reaction, the commissioner expressed appreciation to the governor for stopping by to inspect the ongoing work at the Christmas Park, adding that the new design of the stage is in keeping with international best practices of giving events of such magnitude newness in architectural designs with each passing year.
Speaking to pressmen after the event, the Tourism commissioner disclosed that the event slated to run from December 1, 2024, to January 2, 2025, will feature an array of attractions, including cultural displays, culinary exhibitions, live performances and other exciting activities.
“We are creating something extraordinary for thr benefit of the public kin various sectors,” the commissioner said. “This year’s edition will be a celebration of our cultural heritage and a demonstration of our innovation. We invite Nigerias in home and diaspora to seize this opportunity to witness and enjoy this magnificent cultural extravaganza.”
Christmas Unplugged 2.0 is expected to draw visitors from across the globe, towards reinforcing the position of Akwa Ibom State as a leading cultural and tourism hub in Nigeria.
