John Ighodaro
3 December 2008
Lagos — Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has said that his administration intends to reduce its HIV/AIDS prevalent rate to one percent by 2012.
He spoke while declaring open the Cross River Christmas Village at the end of AIDS walk to sensitize the populace on the ravages of HIV/AIDS.
He announced that the walk was to create awareness as well as address the challenges of stigmatization which has become a big issue.
He described the Christmas Village as the most popular venue for business and relaxation during the 32 days that the festival will last.
He described the State Annual Festival as an activity for every Nigerian to participate in during the 32 days of fun because it is the biggest in Africa.
While performing the tree lighting ceremony of the 2008 Christmas Festival/Carnival at the Millennium Park, weekend, Imoke said the activity does not amount to noise making but a celebration of Cross River Heritage.
Imoke reasoned that with Tinapa Business Resort coming to fruition, business will boom in the state thereby impacting positively on the economy of the state, promising that the effect will be sustained and will grow to become the fastest growing economy in Nigeria.
He commended the sponsors of the festival for identifying with the state in growing its economy as the festival grows bigger and bigger to the peoples benefit.
Mrs. Elenda Osima Dokubo Secretary State Carnival Commission in an introductory address described the festival as 32 days of non-stop fun which she enjoined Cross Riverians to participate in.
Mr. Gabe Onah, Special Adviser on Tourism, in his remarks said the state has developed strategies that will make it distinct as its tourism package is designed to see the people in their true habitat, as this year's edition is planned in a way that it has not been seen before.
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