Mr Erastus Awortu, Chairman, Andoni local government area in Rivers, has reiterated commitment to boost tourism potentials of the area as he unveiled the 2021 Andoni Carnival Week.

Awortu disclosed this on Friday in Port Harcourt while also wooing investors to tap into the rich economic potentials in the area.

The carnival tagged ‘Unity Carnival’ is part of move to further demonstrate the level of peace and stability in the area and to showcase its rich tourism and cultural heritage of the people of the area.

Awortu noted that the Council has concluded plans to host a Unity Carnival as part of celebration for the Yuletide season.

“We want to position Andoni to begin to benefit from tourism, though the area is blessed with Oil and Gas there is an urgent need for us to invest in tourism specially as our country strive towards enhancing economic diversification.

“When fully harnessed, tourism has the potentials of providiing alternative revenue for the nation and employment for our youths.

“Our large stretch of rain forest is a natural habitat harbouring various species of wild cats, monkeys, snakes, antelopes, elephants, hippos and other rare animal species,” he said.

The council boss also noted that the area is richly endowed, as it has very large sand beaches with a natural serenity.

“Fishermen in Andoni fishing settlements at various times celebrated catches of exceptionally large sizes of fishes including the Dolphins and Swordfishes.

“Indeed, our untapped exquisite wildlife and rich ocean reserve is a low-hanging fruit and Springboard for investors,” the Chairman said.

Responding, Mrs Tonye Briggs-Oniyide, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, lauded the Chairman for the initiative which she said would consolidate on the existing peace in Andoni.

Represented by an official of the ministry, Mr Ken Kovu, the commissioner said that Awortu has truly demonstrated readiness to improve on value system and local economy of the area.

The event was attended by dignitaries from different political parties, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.

Highlight of the event was a cultural exhibition and dance.