January 02, (THEWILL) — Akwa Ibom State has wrapped up its 32-day Christmas Unplugged 3.0 festival with the grand celebration of Uyo Day 2025, held at the Village Square, Christmas Park, Uyo.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, described Christmas Unplugged, particularly Uyo Day, as a fulfilment of the founding fathers’ vision of unity, peace, and shared identity among the people of Uyo.
He commended the state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his commitment to tourism development, cultural preservation and economic growth, noting that the festival has positioned Akwa Ibom as a vibrant cultural and tourism destination.
Prince Uwah expressed gratitude to the Governor for showcasing the state’s rich heritage globally and highlighted the numerous infrastructural and social developments recorded in the Uyo Local Government Area under the current administration.
He assured residents of sustained dividends of democracy and declared that Uyo would deliver overwhelming support for Governor Eno in the 2027 gubernatorial election.
“Today, Uyo stands united. As SSG, I can say authoritatively that we have never had it this good”, he said, applauding the Governor’s inclusive leadership.
Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, said the festival was designed to project Uyo’s cultural and economic potential to a global audience.
According to him, Christmas Unplugged significantly boosted tourism and commerce, with increased visitor traffic and full hotel occupancy throughout the festive period.
Delivery Advisor to the Governor on Tourism, Mr Charles Udoh, noted that the initiative has helped preserve indigenous culture amid rapid urbanisation.
In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Uyo, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, praised Governor Eno’s cordial relationship with traditional institutions and urged continued support for his administration beyond 2027.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, thanked the Governor for prioritising tourism, describing the sector as more active and impactful under his leadership.
The event attracted top government officials, lawmakers, traditional rulers, political appointees, community leaders, women, youth groups, students, and other stakeholders.
Uyo Day 2025 featured a colourful cultural procession, traditional dances, historical recitations, indigenous cuisine displays, fashion parades, and a chronological presentation of villages and village heads across Uyo Local Government Area.
