By Richard Ndoma
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has thrown his weight behind a faith-based tourism initiative, the “Seven Angels’ Arena,” unveiled in the state by the National Vice President (South-South) of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Archbishop Emmah Gospel Isong.
The project, located along Idoro Road, was formally unveiled on Monday amid expectations that it would boost tourism, promote peace, and create employment opportunities for youths in the state.
Speaking at the ceremony, Isong said the arena, when completed, would serve as a multi-purpose facility designed to engage youths productively while complementing the state government’s development efforts.
“By the grace of God, this project will employ a lot of Akwa Ibomites to complement government’s peace and unity efforts geared towards development through youth engagement,” he said.
The cleric added that the arena would also function as a global hub for Christian leadership engagement, noting that as PFN National Vice President for the South-South zone, he would ensure the facility attracts international attention.
He disclosed that daily prayers would be held at the site at noon, while a special interdenominational prayer programme tagged “12-12-12” would take place annually on December 12.
Isong appealed to the state government for support, particularly in the areas of power supply, infrastructure, and transportation.
“We need power. There is no electricity here. We also need an amphitheatre, shuttle buses, and a library,” he said.
He explained that the proposed library would preserve the legacies of notable spiritual leaders, including the late Dr Uma Ukpai, Sunday Mbang, Archbishop Benson Idahosa, and Archbishop Elijah Mboho.
According to him, the arena would feature sports facilities, administrative offices, residential estates, farms, schools, an events centre, and commercial outlets.
Describing the project as more than a physical development, Isong said it was a mission inspired by scripture, adding that it reflects a “seven-fold spiritual transformation.”
In his remarks, Governor Eno commended the initiative and urged Akwa Ibom indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute actively to the development of the state.
“We are the ones to build this state, and we must do it together. It is not enough to stay outside and criticise,” the governor said.
He directed the Commissioner for Power to install a transformer at the project site within one month to improve electricity supply in the area.
The governor also endorsed the proposed library, noting that it would help preserve the history and contributions of prominent spiritual leaders in the state.
He further advised the project promoters to ensure that the aesthetic appeal of the facility is matched by its internal development.
“Make your gates very beautiful, but ensure what is inside is even more beautiful,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of the occasion and National President of the Arise and Renewed Hope Initiative, Uwem Okoko, described the project as a visionary initiative capable of fostering national development through prayers and unity.
He pledged the organisation’s support towards the successful completion of the project.
