The hospitality landscape of Cross River State has reached a new milestone with the official commissioning of the Gemba Hotel and Resort.

The star-studded ceremony brought together a high-profile assembly of government officials, Nollywood icons and business titans to witness the unveiling of what is being described as a sanctuary of value.

The formal proceedings were headlined by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem,
who performed the ceremonial ribbon-cutting. Accompanied by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, the event underscored the government’s support for private investments that bolster the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s premier tourism hub.

The structured programme showcased the rich culture of the region, featuring a vibrant performance by the Ekonbi dance troupe.

Addressing the audience, the founder, Dr. Joe Enobong Essiet, said the name ‘Gemba’ was derived from a Japanese term ‘the actual place where value is created’.

Essiet emphasised the resort is result of deliberate intention rather than mere imitation.
“Gemba Hotel and Resort was not created to be another name in hospitality. It was created to be a sanctuary, a destination, a story. A place where nature, culture, innovation and hospitality come together,” Essiet remarked.

Essiet further committed to using the property as an economic engine for Cross River State, focusing on job creation, tourism infrastructure and local partnerships.

The event doubled as one of the largest gatherings of the Nigerian entertainment elite in recent months. The red carpet featured Funke Akindele, Timini Egbuson, Ego Nwosu, and Uzee Usman., Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme (Aki and Pawpaw) and Renowned guitarist Fiokee.

Prominent civic leaders in attendance included Apostle James Koko Anem (Chairman, Calabar Municipality), Chris Njah Mbu-Ogar, and Enome J. Amatey, Esq., Chairman of the NBA Calabar Chapter.