RismadarVoice Reporters, April 1, 2026
Preparations are underway for the 2026 World Heritage Day celebration in Akwa Ibom State, with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, set to deliver the keynote address at the event slated for April 18, 2026.
The event, to be held at the Tropicana Event Centre, Udoudoma Avenue in Uyo, is being organized by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism in collaboration with the University of Uyo. It marks the second time the state will host the global celebration.
Speaking during a television interview, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, said this year’s theme, “Akwa Ibom Heritage Alive,” reflects the state’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity while embracing modern development.
He noted that the celebration will feature a rich lineup of activities, including storytelling, cultural performances, exhibitions, and intellectual discourse aimed at showcasing the state’s heritage.
Udofia said the choice of Soyinka as keynote speaker highlights the significance of the event and reinforces the state’s ambition to position itself as a cultural and tourism hub.
As part of the activities, a storytelling competition for students in tertiary institutions is ongoing, with prizes of N1 million, N600,000, and N400,000 for first, second, and third place winners respectively. Over 100 participants are also expected to receive consolation prizes of N20,000 each.
The commissioner commended sponsors such as Karossy Travels and Tours Limited, as well as other partners including Kenyon International West Africa Company Limited, Bulletine Construction Company, U&K Construction Company, Amitech Construction Company, and GAIS Engineering Ltd, for their support.
He added that the World Heritage Day celebration aligns with the broader efforts of Governor Umo Bassey Eno’s administration to promote tourism, unity, and cultural preservation in the state.
Udofia also highlighted other upcoming initiatives, including a Unity Concert scheduled for April 6, 2026, featuring performances by prominent artists and choirs.
He urged residents to actively participate in the events and called for a collective effort to preserve and promote Akwa Ibom’s rich cultural heritage.
