Gov Eno Revokes Illegal Land Allocation at Tropicana Layout, Restores Master Plan

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has revoked all illegal land allocations at the Tropicana Layout in Uyo, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring the area’s original master plan.

Speaking with Government House Correspondents shortly after inspecting the site designated for the proposed ARISE Shopping City on Tuesday, Governor Eno cautioned residents against encroaching on or acquiring government land for personal use.

“Even though the land has not been utilized for years, there have been several cases of encroachment. That is why I came here personally to revoke every title and activity that deviates from the original master plan,” the governor stated.

Eno explained that his vision to establish a world-class tourism ecosystem in Akwa Ibom State informed the revival of abandoned projects such as the 5,000-seat Ibom International Convention Centre and the 200-room Ibom International Hotel, as well as the introduction of the Ibom International Shopping City.

“We are building a tourism ecosystem for our State. Previous administrations have laid a solid foundation, and we are committed to building on it to make Akwa Ibom better,” he said.

Highlighting tourism as a major pillar of his administration’s development agenda, Governor Eno said: “We are working to revive tourism because it defines our State. Akwa Ibom has all the infrastructure to become Nigeria’s top tourist destination, and we are building on that strength.”

He further disclosed plans to integrate tourism assets across Uyo, Ikot Abasi, Ikot Ekpene, and Oron into a comprehensive Tourism Master Plan, covering sectors such as culture and heritage, medical tourism, agriculture, and aviation.

On the ARISE Shopping City, Eno said the development is designed to complement the State’s hospitality and entertainment infrastructure, creating a one-stop hub where visitors can attend events, shop, lodge, and enjoy recreation in one location.

“We need a Shopping City with international brands where tourists can relax, shop, and enjoy leisure at global standards. Instead of travelling abroad for these experiences, they can find the same quality right here in Akwa Ibom,” he added.

Governor Eno revealed that the ARISE Shopping City project has a 12-month completion timeline. He expressed confidence that Akwa Ibom’s quality road network, serene environment, and peaceful atmosphere will soon attract massive investment and tourism traffic once the new facilities are completed.

He firmly warned against illegal land acquisition, saying, “We will not allow anyone, no matter how highly placed, to disrupt the peace and harmony of Akwa Ibom State.”