The Amalgamation House was where the Northern and Southern proletariates were joined together to form the country, Nigeria in 1914 by Lord Lugard.
Uyo, Nigeria – The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced its search for restoration experts to help preserve the historic 1914 Amalgamation House, located in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Charles Udoh, during a press briefing in Uyo, the state capital, on Wednesday.
Mr. Udoh, who recently assumed office, said that one of his first initiatives was to assess key tourist sites in the state, including the Amalgamation House, to determine their condition and map out plans for restoration.
He emphasized the need for a careful approach to restoring the structure, which played a significant role in Nigeria’s colonial history.
“Work has started on a few of our tourist sites, but places like the Amalgamation House require careful restoration. If you use modern materials, it will lose its historical value. The goal is to replicate the building as it was in 1914, using original materials, paints, and finishes,” Udoh stated.
He further revealed that the state government had previously identified a Lebanese restoration expert, but the individual was unable to continue the project due to discomfort with staying in the country. Efforts are ongoing to find suitable specialists for the project.
In addition to the Amalgamation House, Mr. Udoh discussed initiatives aimed at promoting the legacy of Scottish missionary Mary Slessor. The state government, he said, has commenced the construction of a road leading to the Mary Slessor House, to improve accessibility. Talks have also been held with the Presbyterian Church and the Mary Slessor Akan-Glo Foundation to collaborate on restoring the site.
“The road to the Mary Slessor House was previously inaccessible, but the state government is now constructing it. We have engaged with the Presbyterian Church and the foundation to partner with us in restoring the site,” Udoh added.
As part of activities to mark World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024, Akwa Ibom will host its first-ever combined Boat Regatta and Fishing Festival. The commissioner noted that the event, which will take place at Marina Beach, Nwaniba, will also feature the unveiling of a Slave Boat, and Governor Umo Eno is expected to inaugurate the newly established Slave Memorial Park.
“We’ve had regattas before, but this will be the first Ibom Fishing and Regatta Festival,” Udoh said. He added that ferry services from Oron to Calabar will soon commence, with the state’s first luxury, air-conditioned ferry expected to be delivered by December.
The commissioner highlighted that the government aims to boost tourism in the region, with plans to make the area more accessible and attractive for visitors.
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