HARNESSING THE RICH POTENTIALS OF TOURISM IN EDO STATE

*As Benin Crown Prince ,other tourists visits Sopkonba Resort*

As part of the Edo state government commitment to revamp and harness the rich tourism potentials of Edo state, Hon.commisioner for Arts,Culture,Tourism and Diaspora affairs Osaze Osemwegie-Ero in company of the crown prince of Benin kingdom and other tourists,professionals visited sopkonba island resort.

Sopkonba resort is located in Sopkonba community Orhiomhon Local Government area of Edo state, its about 45mins drive from Benin metropolis. The resort is sorrunded by historical island,beautiful water body with distinct colour and clarity. The resort whuch was founded in 1897, have in its sorrundings ,old dilipitated guest houses built by the then military governor of Bendel state Lt.Rtd Brig General Samuel Ogbemudia, who in his time use the primeses for exco meetings.

The revamping of Sopkonba resort will help boost tourism industry of Edo state and attracts tourists across the globe.Hon.Osaze noted that its the dream of this government to see that this resort is revamp for full use,as the governor will be ready to partner with private investors through Public Private partnership deal.

This willl no doubt provide jobs for the community,bring development, attract tourists from all works of life and as well as providing revenue for both the investor and government.

Sopkonba resort is one of the very beautiful tourist sites in Edo state and it's uniqueness is its relationship with Benin history in the invasion 1897 saga.Edo people,members of Sopkonba community are very optimistic that this resort will be put to full use in the shortest possible time.