LEGISLATURE

AKHA COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION HOLDS PUBLIC HEARING ON BILL TO ESTABLISH CULINARY, HOSPITALITY SCHOOL 

By Julius Nsikak

In a landmark step towards transforming the hospitality landscape of Akwa Ibom, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA) Committee on Education, chaired by Hon. (Mrs.) Kenim Onofiok, recently convened a public hearing on the proposed “Bill for a Law to Establish the Akwa Ibom State School of Culinary Studies and Hospitality Management, a Board, and for other connected matters.”

The public hearing, held at the Assembly Complex, provided a platform for stakeholders from across the state to deliberate, offer perspectives, and present memoranda on the Bill, which seeks to institutionalise culinary and hospitality education in the state.

The event was formally declared open by the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, ably represented by Hon. Dr. Itorobong Etim, member representing Uruan State Constituency.

In his opening remark, the Speaker reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to participatory legislation. “This public hearing exemplifies our pledge under the Eighth Assembly, aptly dubbed ‘The People’s Assembly’, where the voices of our citizens shape the laws that govern them,” he stated. 

He described the proposed legislation as a forward-looking initiative aligned with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, aiming to harness the enormous potential of the culinary and hospitality industry as a driver of economic growth.

“The establishment of this school will serve as a beacon of food tourism and hospitality excellence,” the Speaker added, “positioning Akwa Ibom as a regional hub for world-class culinary and hospitality training.”

Earlier in her address, the Committee Chair, Hon. Kenim Onofiok who is also a member representing Oron/Idung Uko State Constituency, described the Bill as a progressive move towards equipping the state’s youths with specialised training and practical skills for employment in the fast-growing hospitality sector. 

According to her, the proposed institution will offer modern, structured training in gastronomy and hospitality management, leading to enhanced job creation, industrial growth, and broader economic development.

“The demands of today’s society require us to respond strategically to the educational, cultural, and economic aspirations of our people,” Hon. Onofiok stated. She expressed her gratitude to Governor Umo Eno and Speaker Udeme Otong for fostering a conducive legislative atmosphere, assuring that every stakeholder input would be duly considered.

In his contribution, the Commissioner for Tourism and Culture, Dr. Anieti Udofia, applauded the initiative, describing the Bill as vital to the regulation and advancement of hospitality education. He pledged his ministry’s full support to the Assembly, especially in actualising the ARISE Agenda’s objectives of innovation and human capital development.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh (represented), lauded the Assembly for “charting a path that will unlock the vast potentials of Akwa Ibom’s youth.” He pledged inter-ministerial collaboration to ensure the seamless establishment of the school.

Stakeholders at the hearing advocated for strict regulation, transparency, and professionalism in the implementation of the proposed school and its board. They emphasised the importance of involving certified professionals in curriculum development and certification validation to ensure global competitiveness.

Among those who made notable contributions were Mr. Sifon Ubong Ntuk (representing the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice), Mrs. Ime Usen Udo (Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Hotels and Tourism Board), Otuekong Franklyn Isong (CHRAN), Dr. Anietie Atai (Nigeria Labour Congress), and Chef Kufre Shilling (Association of Professional Chefs, Akwa Ibom State).

Also in attendance were Hon. Sampson Idiong (Deputy Chairman of the Committee), Rt. Hon. Effiong Johnson, Hon. Nsidibe Akata, Hon. Jerry Otu, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, Hon. Uwemedimo Asuquo, Hon. Hon Selinah Ukpatu, Hon. Eric Akpan, Hon. (Prince) Aniefiok Attah, Mrs. Nsikak-Abasi Orok (Assembly Clerk), Pastor Etim Okon (Clerk of the Committee), Barr. Victor Idiong (Parliamentary Council), and Mr. Edidiong Idung (Clerk II of the Committee), among others.