The Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Hon. Dr. Nnabuhe Imegwu, on October 27, 2011, celebrated the World Tourism Day by giving awards to deserving sons and daughters of Rivers State, who had impacted on the society, in the area of culture.
Those who were awarded by the Culture and Tourism Ministry are Monima Harry, Chairman Actors Guild of Nigeria (NGA) Rivers state chapter, Oba Omega, stage name, real name Emmanuel Moses Amakiri aka the krikata master, for making Rivers State proud in maintaining the best Niger Delta Artiste award twice.
Elizabeth Alfred, real name Soba Akpana, who has been Beautifying Port Harcourt since year 2000 and promoting art in the state.
Others are Prince Hezekiah for being outstanding in his comedy trade since 2008. Hezekiah has received eight comedy awards since he started from 2008. Prince Hezekiah was adjudged the best Niger Delta comedian in year 2010 and 2011 by the Niger Delta Advancement Awards group, Mrs. Ayo Sokari, Director Toppearl Catering Institute for being outstanding creative designs in the marriage institution and Chief F. Woke, Director Savannah Hotels, for complementing tourism in Rivers State. Biokpo West was not given an award, but made the list for his creativeness in reciting a poem made out specially for the World Tourism Day Celebration.
Speaking as the special Guest of Honour, Engr. Tele Ikuru, the State Deputy Governor representing Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, the state Governor, said the commissioner for culture and tourism has indeed introduced a new dimension in celebrating the World Tourism Day, and the state will welcome it.
Engr. Tele Ikuru applauded the commissioner for the innovation and pledged upholding in the scheme of things. He also commended Nollyhood for the role the body has played in the society, particular Rivers State chapter for being peaceful and free from scandals.
He however, appeal to the body to increase their antics as to improve society in the area of promoting culture. The Deputy Governor also appealed to operators of Hotels to showcase tourism in local content to tourists who might want to enjoy the Rivers true tourism in their whims and caprices .
He also appealed to the public to make out time atleast once a week to go out for tourist adventure, noting that Rivers State has good tourist sight that need to be developed to generate fund into the state coffers. ####
Allanso Jonathan Allanso
