The Arise Palm Resort project in Uyo is emerging as a critical support asset for the operational sustainability of the Victor Attah International Airport, according to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN.
Speaking after an inspection tour of the resort facilities along Dominic Utuk Avenue, the Minister emphasised that modern aviation infrastructure requires complementary investments in hospitality, leisure, and commerce to attract consistent international traffic and airline confidence.
Keyamo explained that his visit to Akwa Ibom State was primarily to assess readiness for expanded international flight operations at the Victor Attah International Airport following its upgraded status. He noted that airports do not thrive in isolation and must be supported by high quality tourism and business infrastructure.
He stated that aviation and tourism are economically interdependent sectors, adding that passenger volumes, route sustainability, and commercial viability depend significantly on the availability of destinations and experiences that justify travel.
According to the Minister, the scale and design of the Arise Palm Resort position it as a key component of the State’s aviation ecosystem. He described the project as a purpose built family resort capable of hosting international visitors, airline crews, business travellers, and tourists arriving through the airport.
He highlighted features such as the artificial lake supplied by underground spring water, villas, floating restaurants, sporting facilities, and leisure spaces as infrastructure that directly enhances the attractiveness of the airport to both passengers and carriers.
Keyamo further observed that the project represents a strategic land use transformation, converting an erosion affected zone into a revenue generating tourism asset. He described this approach as an example of infrastructure led economic recovery and environmental reclamation.
Commending Governor Umo Eno, the Minister said the administration’s development strategy reflects a deliberate effort to diversify the State’s economy beyond traditional sectors by building assets that support increased air traffic, hospitality investment, and job creation.
He expressed confidence that the alignment between the international airport and the resort would strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position as a preferred aviation and tourism hub, with positive implications for passenger throughput and regional connectivity.
Governor Umo Eno, in his remarks, clarified that although construction progress has accelerated with the dry season, the resort will not be opened prematurely. He stressed that the State Government is prioritising quality and operational completeness over early commissioning.
He assured that a formal opening date would be announced once all components meet required standards, noting that the objective is to deliver a fully functional, world class facility capable of sustaining long term economic impact.
The inspection team included the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, members of the State Executive Council, political stakeholders, industry leaders, and other government officials.
