Cross River State is set for a major boost in agriculture and export trade after Governor Bassey Otu hosted the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maha, for the commissioning of Nigeria’s first Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility in Mfum, Ikom.

Speaking during the visit, Otu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, said the state was ready to partner with the Federal Ministry to turn Cross River into a livestock and export hub for Nigeria and West Africa.

“We are happy to have you back. When you were here last, you promised to return and visit the ranch. I’m happy you’ve come, and in the next two hours I’ll be meeting investors who want to invest in the ranch,” the governor said.   “We are making the ranch a five-star resort where visitors from all over the world will be happy to visit. This weekend I’ll be on the ranch as well.”

The governor announced that the cargo airport near Obudu Ranch is 85 per cent complete, with the first aircraft expected to land in December 2026.

He added that the state plans to commence regular flights in the first quarter of next year from Abuja to Bukalo Airport and from Lagos to the Obudu International Passengers and Cargo Airport.

“For farmers like those who want to invest in livestock, it will be easier to export our livestock from Obudu Ranch to anywhere in the world,” he said.

The governor also linked the project to Cross River’s broader trade corridor. He noted that the state provides an evacuation route to the Gulf of Guinea, just two hours away, accessible through the Calabar International Airport.

State-owned Cally Air is expected to begin regular flights to the Gulf soon to expand both business and tourism.

Otu assured the ministry of the state’s full cooperation, including stakeholder engagement with poultry and livestock farmers across Cross River.

Earlier, Maha said the Mfum facility is critical to protecting Nigeria’s economy by ensuring only healthy livestock crosses the borders from the Sahel and neighbouring countries.