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From Isaac Job, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Government has said it will inaugurate Ibom Kitchen to drive tourism as part of the 2026 Christmas activities, and has disclosed the sponsors of the month-long Christmas programme, scheduled to run from December 1 to January 1, 2027, at the Christmas village in Uyo.
Speaking at a press conference in Uyo, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, said traditional meals would be prepared across the 31 local government areas of the state.
Udofia explained that the Christmas festival would be celebrated on the theme “The Taste of Akwa Ibom: Our Food, Our Culture and Our Heritage”, adding that the rich delicacies of the state could be harnessed to drive tourism.
“From traditional meals prepared across its 31 local government areas to cultural displays, music and a pageant celebrating the Akwa Ibom woman, the state is preparing for a festive season that will showcase its heritage and tourism attractions as Ibom Christmas Unplugged 4.0 opens on November 30.”
Udofia explained that the briefing provided an opportunity to update partners, sponsors, tourists, tourism enthusiasts and the general public on preparations, while reflecting on the achievements of the 2025 celebration.
Reviewing the previous edition, Udofia said it would help the state to assess its progress, identify areas for improvement and build on what had been achieved.
“The 2025 celebration recorded more than 4.5 million visits to Unity Park, with over 800 vendors and 300 kiosks participating in the event.”
“According to the organisers, this year’s edition will build on that experience, with 300 kiosks and additional spaces for brand displays.”
One of the major attractions will be the Ibom Kitchen, where the state’s food culture will be on display.
“Each of the 31 local government areas is expected to present at least five traditional dishes on its allocated day, giving visitors the chance to enjoy the different meals and food traditions across Akwa Ibom.”
Udofia said other side attractions at the event, scheduled to hold between December 1 and January 1, would include Mbopo Akwa Ibom, a cultural pageant designed to showcase the beauty, intelligence, character, cultural values and purpose of the Akwa Ibom woman.
Udofia listed the sponsors as Ibom Air, MTN, Seplat Energy and Champion Breweries, among others.
The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Culture and Tourism Commission, Mrs Ime Udo, described the initiative as a platform founded on the philosophy of “Beauty with a Purpose”.
She explained that it went beyond conventional beauty pageants by giving young women opportunities to develop their potential, build careers and achieve greater economic independence.
She said the winner would serve as the state’s tourism ambassador for 365 days and receive a brand-new car, a cash prize to be announced by Governor Umo Eno, as well as an office within the Office of the Governor.
The grand finale is scheduled for December 20 at Arise Palm Resort Banquet Hall.
The Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah, said the state government’s investment in tourism was aimed at making the sector a major contributor to the state’s economy.
He explained that developing local tourism sites and promoting Akwa Ibom to a wider audience would help attract visitors, support businesses and create jobs.
“Beyond the food and cultural showcases, the programme will feature daily performances by local artistes, Christmas carols, a Niger Delta cultural day, children’s activities, reggae night, old-school night and a New Year’s Eve crossover celebration.
“A government pavilion will also showcase projects undertaken by the administration of Governor Umo Eno and highlight investment opportunities in tourism, agriculture and other sectors.”
Other planned activities include a celebration with civil servants, a women’s day, a corporate consortium and visits to orphanages, adding community and business activities to the entertainment programme.
Umanah stated that the festivities were expected to create opportunities for local businesses, vendors and artistes to connect with new audiences, while giving communities a platform to showcase their products, talents and cultural heritage.
“As the celebrations draw to a close on December 31, Unity Park will host a New Year’s Eve crossover, bringing residents and visitors together for a night of worship and thanksgiving as they usher in the New Year.”
