Calabar: Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has sanctioned the allocation of N18 billion to enhance tourism infrastructure and reposition the state as a premier destination in Nigeria and West Africa. The state government plans to utilize the funds for the rehabilitation and upgrade of significant tourism assets, including the Obudu Mountain Resort, Kwa Falls, Marina Resort, and the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism Development, Mr. Thomas Ikpeme, announced this development in a statement on Thursday. Ikpeme highlighted that the investment is a part of the administration’s tourism transformation agenda under the ‘Season of Sweetness’ initiative. The state aims to launch ‘Experience Calabar’ tours and establish a Heritage Market to promote arts, crafts, and local culture.
Ikpeme also noted that a crucial element of this initiative is the government’s strategic investment in Axari Towers, which will ensure the hosting of major events and increase bed capacity in preparation for the 20th Anniversary of the Christmas Festival and Carnival Calabar this December. This initiative is anticipated to stimulate the local economy, create jobs, attract global tourists, and deepen private sector involvement in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Additionally, the government has acquired two CRJ 1000 aircraft to complement the existing Boeing 737s operated by the state-owned airline, Cally Air, in collaboration with Aero Contractors and ValueJet. Ikpeme mentioned that the Calabar International Convention Centre (CICC) and the Calabar Cultural Centre are undergoing upgrades to attract conferences and business events to the state.
Gov. Otu emphasized that the initiative aims to create jobs, attract investments, and promote local culture through tourism. He remarked, “This is not just an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in our people, our culture, and our future.” The government also stated that the initiative would improve access, accommodation, and activities across the state while enhancing human capacity and community-based tourism.
