Akwa Ibom Temporarily Shuts Ibom Hotels for Mega Renovation, Targets Tourism, Investment Boost

The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced the temporary closure of Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort for comprehensive renovation and strategic repositioning as part of efforts to strengthen tourism, attract investment and improve the state’s hospitality industry.

The government said the facility would suspend operations from August 22, 2026, to allow for the speedy completion of renovation works and the implementation of a new operational framework.

According to a public announcement jointly signed by the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, and the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Anieti N. Udofia, the initiative was designed to reposition the state’s hospitality assets for “greater efficiency, sustainability, competitiveness, and long-term profitability.”

The government said the decision followed more than 18 years of continuous operation without major transformation, stressing that the planned intervention was part of a long-term improvement of its hospitality assets.

As part of the repositioning, management of Ibom Hospitality Limited will be entrusted to ALEPH Hospitality, an internationally recognised hospitality management company, effective August 22.

The government said the new management arrangement was aimed at introducing “global best practices, professional expertise, improved service standards, operational efficiency, enhanced commercial performance and greater value” to the state.

It added that the intervention was expected to usher in a new chapter for the facility, with emphasis on innovation, improved service delivery, sustainable growth and renewed opportunities.

The statement assured workers of the government’s commitment to their welfare during the transition, saying no staff member currently employed by Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort would be laid off as a result of the transition, except those who voluntarily chose not to continue under the new operational arrangement or those who did not possess the skill sets required by the new management team.

It said employees would have opportunities to continue within the state’s hospitality ecosystem, including possible placements at the Arise Palm Resort when it opens and other facilities under the new management structure.

“The Human Resources team, in collaboration with the new management, will engage with employees to discuss available roles, deployment arrangements, training, onboarding, and other support structures required for a smooth transition,” the government said.

It further disclosed that some employees would remain at the hotel during the temporary closure to support rehabilitation activities, safeguard the property and ensure proper maintenance.

For golf enthusiasts, however, the government said the golf course would remain open throughout the renovation period.

“For our golf players, the golf course has been maintained by the government, and it is in good state hence it will still be open for players and visitors while the renovation of the hotel lasts,” the statement said.

The government said the hotel management would assist guests and intending visitors with alternative reservations at other Ibom hotel assets during the closure.

It stressed that the broader objective of the intervention was to build “a world-class hospitality sector that creates employment, attracts investment, promotes tourism, and strengthens Akwa Ibom State’s position as a premier tourism and business destination.”