The Rivers State Tourism Development Agency (RSTDA) has teamed up with the Mayor of Housing to invigorate the state’s tourism and entertainment sectors. This collaboration aims to rejuvenate the local economy and improve the ease of doing business in Rivers State.

The partnership was solidified following the Rivers State Economic and Investment Summit, which concluded on May 23, 2024. At an event in the GRA, RSTDA’s Director-General, Yibo Koko, detailed the “low-hanging fruits” initiative designed to leverage the state’s inherent advantages.

Present at the event was My-Ace China, CEO of Housing and Construction Limited, who showed a strong commitment to this cause. Several banks have also expressed interest in supporting the Agency’s objectives under Sir Sim Fubara’s administration.

Tourism, a sector that once propelled the state’s economy, is being seen as a key to revitalization. The recent economic summit has given new life to RSTDA’s role, leading to fresh mandates and directives.

Director-General Yibo Koko spoke enthusiastically about the summit’s outcomes, especially highlighting the creative economy. He mentioned that the Mayor of Housing’s participation in a panel on the creative economy led to the decision to initiate the “Low Hanging Fruits Initiative.”

Koko discussed the damaging effects of negative online profiling. He pointed out that algorithms often pick up the most frequent content, which in Rivers State’s case, has been predominantly negative news. To counter this, the RSTDA aims to highlight the positive developments in the state, encouraging entrepreneurs and investors to drive economic growth.

My-Ace China expressed his excitement about working with the RSTDA and shared his experiences of the negative perceptions surrounding Port Harcourt. He recounted his initial skepticism due to fears about safety but was pleasantly surprised by the city’s hospitality and stability.

Mr. China described how Port Harcourt’s vibrant atmosphere and potential in the housing market contrasted sharply with the negative image painted by outsiders. He found the city welcoming and full of opportunities, which led him to stage the biggest event there, drawing significant attention and participation.

Mr. China identified political factors as contributing to the state’s negative image. He emphasized the importance of changing the narrative and highlighted his efforts in the comedy industry to promote Port Harcourt positively. His proactive approach in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has earned him recognition, proving that consistent positive actions can change perceptions.

Mr. China stressed the need for persistent positive storytelling to overshadow the negative. He proposed a competition among journalists to encourage more positive news coverage of Rivers State. By doing so, he believes the state can reclaim its status as a tourism hub.

Mr. China also touched on broader economic strategies, suggesting that awareness and deliberate narrative changes are crucial. He urged residents to talk positively about the state, arguing that if a significant portion of the population shares good news, it can shift perceptions and attract investment.

Mr. China shared a touching story about his project in Alesa Eleme, where initial fears were overcome by engaging with the community and providing essential support. His efforts in CSR have not only improved local conditions but also earned him respect and recognition from the community.

The mayor emphasized the importance of flooding search engines with positive stories to improve the state’s attractiveness. He called on everyone to contribute to this effort, ensuring that Rivers State climbs the ranks as a desirable destination for business and tourism.

Governor Fubara’s message is clear: Rivers State is ready for business. With the RSTDA leading the charge and strong support from enthusiastic entrepreneurs like the Mayor of Housing, the state is poised to shed its negative image and emerge as a center of tourism and economic activity.