Nollywood Veteran Columbus Irosanga says that Tourism is one of the available economic windows in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers.
Irosanga disclosed this on Sunday at Asarama, a community in the area council, during a ‘Boat Regatta’ which formed part of program indicating the third edition of the ‘Andoni Unity Festival’.
“Security is indeed key to harnessing inherent tourism potentials in Andoni, that is why I want to greatly commend the local government Chairman, Erastus Awortu, for keeping the peace.
“Tourism can thrive in Andoni, seeing that for more than two years since inception of the Awortu’s administration, there has been relative peace in the area.
“If this pronounced peace is sustained, tourists will definitely begin to come here to seek entertainment and business which are embedded in our culture.
“Culture is actually the image of the people and Canoe regatta is one of the things that distinguishes the Riverine folk, so, celebrating it shows that they appreciate their environment.
“The displays by 11 wards of the LGA is exciting and I pray that it gets better and also gives room for more displays from the locality and beyond,” he said.
According to the film actor, when investors and tourists begin to visit the area, the people’s crafts, local artefacts and delicacies will begin to earn economic values that will create employment revenue for the council.
An indigene of the area, Mr Agustus Nte, also recounted inherent economic as well as long term benefits of the festival while also urging the council to adopt it as a yearly ritual, irrespective of administrative transience.
Nte who is a former Director of Academic Planning, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, described the annual ‘Andoni Unity Festival’ as a worthy investment so far initiated by the council.
Nte also called on government and private enterpreneurs to tap into the hidden investment opportunity that had just been uncovered by the festival.
Erastus Awortu, Chairman of the council, commended guests and participants, saying the year’s edition was greeted by lots of creativity and innovation which displayed the culture and artistry of the people.
Describing Andoni boat regatta as most unique, the chairman promised to continue to showcase its potentials with a view of attracting investors and economic growth to the area.
