NIA Commends Quality of ARISE Shopping City Project, Says Development Will Strengthen Akwa Ibom's Tourism and Commercial Economy

The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has applauded the quality and pace of work on the ongoing ARISE Shopping City project in Uyo, describing it as another strategic investment capable of transforming Akwa Ibom into one of Nigeria's leading tourism, retail and business destinations. During a technical inspection of the project, the professional body said the development reflects the state government's deliberate commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure while creating new opportunities for commerce, employment and economic diversification.

As part of its commitment to promoting professional excellence and encouraging quality infrastructure delivery, the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, conducted a technical visit to the ARISE Shopping City project in Uyo on July 8, 2026. The inspection forms part of the Chapter's ongoing programme of visiting major public infrastructure projects being executed under the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno. The initiative provides architects with the opportunity to assess construction standards, exchange professional knowledge and encourage the adoption of best practices within the built environment.

Leading the delegation, the Chairman of the Chapter, Arc. Edidiong Ukpong, PhD, FNIA, described the ARISE Shopping City as another mega infrastructure project that demonstrates the government's determination to reposition Akwa Ibom State as one of Nigeria's most attractive destinations for tourism, investment and modern urban development. According to Dr. Ukpong, Governor Umo Eno is pursuing a deliberate vision of transforming Akwa Ibom through the delivery of world-class infrastructure and iconic projects capable of stimulating long-term economic growth.

The NIA Chairman disclosed that construction has advanced steadily at the substructure stage under the supervision of indigenous construction firm and project manager, HENSEK Integrated Services Limited, adding that members of the delegation were informed that the project is expected to be completed by September next year. He explained that, upon completion, the ARISE Shopping City will integrate seamlessly with adjoining facilities, including the Ibom Tropicana Shopping Mall, to create a modern shopping district designed to serve residents, conference delegates, investors and tourists visiting Akwa Ibom State.

Dr. Ukpong also commended the quality of workmanship observed during the inspection, noting that the building is being constructed on pile and raft foundations, a structural approach designed to provide long-term stability, durability and resilience. He expressed optimism that the completed facility would become one of the state's landmark commercial developments while significantly strengthening Akwa Ibom's tourism value chain and expanding opportunities for local businesses.

The ARISE Shopping City forms part of a broader tourism ecosystem being developed around the International Convention Centre precinct. The integrated master plan also includes the Ibom Hotels, the International Convention Centre, the amusement park and other leisure facilities designed to make Uyo a preferred destination for conferences, recreation and investment.

Governor Umo Eno has consistently maintained that the project is intended to reduce capital flight by enabling residents to access internationally recognised retail brands locally while attracting businesses capable of creating employment opportunities and supporting the state's economic diversification agenda beyond oil revenue.

"According to the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Arc. Edidiong Ukpong, PhD, FNIA, Governor Umo Eno is on a mission to transform Akwa Ibom State into one of Nigeria's most attractive destinations through the delivery of world-class infrastructure and iconic development projects.

According to Dr. Ukpong, work at the ARISE Shopping City has progressed steadily under the supervision of indigenous contractor and project manager, HENSEK Integrated Services Limited, while project officials indicated that completion is expected by September next year.

According to him, the Shopping City will eventually integrate with adjoining developments, including the Ibom Tropicana Shopping Mall, creating a modern commercial destination capable of attracting residents, tourists and investors.

Dr. Ukpong further stated that the quality of construction observed on site was commendable, noting that the project is being built on pile and raft foundations to ensure durability and long-term structural integrity.

Governor Umo Eno has also explained that the Shopping City forms part of the state's broader tourism ecosystem, where visitors attending conferences and events can enjoy world-class shopping, hospitality and recreational facilities within the same district"

The ARISE Shopping City represents more than a retail development. It is part of a broader strategy to diversify Akwa Ibom's economy by strengthening tourism, hospitality, commerce and private investment. Projects of this nature have the potential to stimulate local businesses, attract international brands, create employment opportunities and increase internally generated revenue.

The endorsement of the project by the state's professional body for architects also provides an independent perspective on the quality of construction and reinforces confidence in the technical standards being adopted.

Residents can expect greater access to modern shopping facilities and entertainment options without travelling outside the state. For businesses and investors, the development presents fresh opportunities in retail, hospitality, logistics and commercial services.

The integration of the Shopping City with hotels, conference facilities and recreational attractions is also expected to boost visitor spending while strengthening Akwa Ibom's position as a destination for business tourism and leisure.

The ARISE Shopping City is one of several flagship projects being executed under Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda. The development is strategically located within the Tropicana Entertainment Centre and International Convention Centre corridor in Uyo, where it will complement existing infrastructure including the 5,000-capacity International Convention Centre, the Ibom Hotels, the amusement park and other tourism assets.

The project is designed to attract premium retail outlets, leisure facilities and commercial businesses while reducing the need for residents to travel outside the state for quality shopping experiences. It also aligns with the government's broader objective of expanding the non-oil economy through tourism, commerce and private-sector investment.

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The inspection by the Nigerian Institute of Architects adds professional credibility to the ARISE Shopping City project by providing an independent assessment of its construction quality and architectural standards. Such technical engagements demonstrate the important role professional bodies can play in encouraging accountability, promoting best practices and supporting sustainable infrastructure development.

Beyond the physical structure, the project reflects a wider economic vision centred on creating an integrated tourism and commercial ecosystem capable of attracting investment, generating employment and increasing economic activity within Akwa Ibom State. If completed on schedule and managed effectively, the ARISE Shopping City could become one of Nigeria's most significant state-led mixed-use commercial developments and a model for infrastructure-driven economic diversification.