By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City
A former governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic (PDP) in the 2020 Edo governorship primaries who is believed to be eyeing the governorship on the platform of the Labour Party(LP) in 2024, Barrister Kenneth Imansuangbon (aka the Riceman), has promised to unlock the tourism potentials of the State when elected governor.
Imasuangbon, who defected to the LP last weekend made the promise in a statement made available to newsmen, noted that the move is part of his plans to make Edo State a destination of choice for both foreigners and Nigerians.
The philanthropist and educationist, who said that the potentials drive from tourism is one that needed the attention of the government, emphasized that his government would prioritize development of the sector as part of plans to increase the state revenue profile.
He pointed out that the internally generated revenue of Edo State can be doubled by unlocking the tourism sector.
According to him, “Edo State can function without federal allocation if this sector, tourism, is developed. The tourism potential of the State is huge and needs a clear roadmap to be harnessed for the benefit of all.
“The three senatorial districts of the State are endowed with lots of tourism sites that have not been harnessed for the good of the people.”
Imasuangbon however stated that the government would need the collaboration of the private sector and that of the people to initiate and execute these plans.
“Yes, the benefit will be huge but government can’t do this without the support of the private sector and those of the people where these sites are located,” he stated.