The Managing Director of Cross River Tourism Bureau, Mr. Ojoi Ekpenyong, has announced that the state’s entertainment centre, Marina Resort, has attracted investments totalling N8 billion within the last seven months.

He revealed that the investment is spread across various segments of the entertainment hub, with one major player in the sector contributing N5 billion.

Ekpenyong disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar on Saturday.

He stated that the current workforce of 250 at the hub would increase by an additional 250 when the N5 billion Blake Entertainment Resort is inaugurated in two weeks.

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“You can see what we have transformed this place into within a few months, thanks to the understanding and support of the Governor.

“The Marina Resort, which opened for business in 2005, suffered neglect and abandonment for years. This administration deemed it necessary to breathe life into it again.

“We have revitalized the famous Tortuga Island at Marina Resort, which will change the dynamics of the entertainment industry in South-South Nigeria,” he said.

According to Ekpenyong, the project is entirely private sector-driven and is expected to surpass similar facilities in Abuja due to its waterfront location.

“We want to use this platform to tell our story as Crossriverians and to boost the state’s tourism sector,” he added.

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He further explained that the centre would mirror the Blake Entertainment Center in Abuja, featuring amenities such as a lounge, VIP section, children’s arcade, nightclub, swimming pool, and water sports activities, designed to attract visitors from around the world.

Ekpenyong stated that the centre is projected to generate a minimum of N10 million daily and significantly boost the local economy.

“The value chain here is massive and unimaginable, ranging from service providers to numerous other sectors,” he said.

The Managing Director also disclosed plans for a 30-room hotel at the Marina Resort and revealed that arrangements are underway to concession the Qua Fall in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

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“Qua Fall is an ecotourism facility, and we are finalizing plans with a private entity to take over its development.

“They will develop a 30-room accommodation facility, hiking trails, and a swimming pool,” he said.

Ekpenyong noted that the carousels at the resort have been restored, while the cinema centre will soon reopen to the public once ongoing work is completed.