Sadiq Albert
Port Harcourt, Oct. 24, 2022 – Mr Mkpon Ijonama, President-General, Obolo Youth Coalition (OYC) has urged government and individuals to harness tourism and hospitality potentials of coastal Communities in Andoni local area council of Rivers so as to enhance revenue and employment generation.
Ijonama made the call on Monday in Port Harcourt while analysing huge economc opportunities within the coastlines of Andoni local government area of the State.
He therefore, urged government to ensure that the forest landmark of Andoni is adequately gazetted and conserved to sustain the natural habitat suitable for tourism.
Ijonama, who is also an entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mkpochi Resources, a conglomerate of indegenous businesses noted that the natural coastlines of Andoni is an untapped economc hub capable of poverty reduction and revenue generation when adequately developed
“Hospitality/tourism business in Andoni could best be discribed as ‘low hanging fruits’ because the coastlines already radiates nature’s beauty.
“From ‘Down-below Fishing Community’ to the ancient Oyorokoto fish settlement lies a natural rain forest which houses wild animals like elephants, hippos, several spacies of snakes, wild cats amongst other animals, no doubt the forest is best for a wildlife reserve.
“The various fish settlements in the arera over the years remained prominent in promoting commercial fishing, a major trademark of the people of the area.
“The Ikuru Town Sand beach is also a tourists delight and nature’s beauty in the area council,” he said.
The youth leader also commended Dr Dagomie Abiante, Lawmaker representing Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency on his legislative role in the establishment of the Federal Collage of Fisheries in Andoni.
According to him, the collage would assist groom youths across the country on mechanised fishery, Engineering technologies as well as enhancing productivity along the fish value chain.
He however, urged youths in the area to build on age-long fishing occupation while also leveraging on knowledge offered by the Fisheries institute to promote positive career in the agriculture subsector.
About Author
