In a bid to secure effective management and reposition state-owned hospitality facilities, the Akwa Ibom State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aleph Technical and Advisory Services.
The deal was sealed on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Government House, Uyo, shortly after the return of Governor Umo Eno from a working visit to Abuja and CSS Farms in Gora, Nasarawa State.
Under the agreement, Aleph will oversee the management of four major hospitality assets in the state:
Ibom Icon Hotel & Golf Resort
Four Points by Sheraton Ikot Ekpene
Ibom International Hotel
ARISE Palm Resort
Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Eno expressed confidence in the state’s potential to emerge as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria.
He assured the management team of Aleph Technical and Advisory Services of his administration’s full support, stressing that improved professional management would unlock the commercial value of the facilities.
According to him, the hospitality industry remains a critical pillar in the state’s economic diversification strategy, with tourism positioned to generate employment, stimulate local businesses, and enhance internally generated revenue.
Earlier, the Team Lead of Aleph, Jad Shamseddin, presented findings from the firm’s preliminary assessment of the facilities.
He disclosed that the team had spent several days evaluating the properties and described them as uniquely built to international standards.
While acknowledging existing strengths, Shamseddin noted that certain operational and structural adjustments would be required to optimize performance.
He expressed optimism that with strategic improvements, the facilities would achieve the desired profitability and service excellence.
The parties indicated that a formal Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) would be signed after the completion of due diligence processes.
Members of the Aleph delegation included Marc Matar, Vice President, Food and Beverages; Aman Raheja, Director of Development; Fiona Stewart, Director of Projects; Joseph Keserwany, Head of Technical Design, Joseph Keserwany; and Waqar Ashraf, Area Director, IT.
On the government’s side were Enobong Uwah, Secretary to the State Government, Uko Udom, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice; Frank Archibong, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Aniekan Umana, Commissioner for Information, Anieti Udofia, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism; Professor Eno Ibanga, Commissioner for Works; Engr. Uwem Okoko, President General of the ARISE with Renewed Hope Initiative, amongst others.
The agreement signals a renewed push by the state government to professionalize the management of its hospitality infrastructure and strengthen its standing in Nigeria’s competitive tourism market.
