Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has approved the release of N18 billion to boost tourism infrastructure and reposition the state as a leading destination in Nigeria and West Africa.
 
The funds will be used to rehabilitate and upgrade key tourism assets, including the Obudu Mountain Resort, Kwa Falls, Marina Resort, and the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort.
 
According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism Development, Mr Thomas Ikpeme, “this move is expected to stimulate the local economy, create jobs, attract global tourists, and deepen private sector involvement in the tourism and hospitality value chain.”
 
The state government plans to remodel Amber Tinapa Hotel and Studio Tinapa, construct a new pier harbor, and launch “Experience Calabar” tours to promote arts, crafts, and local culture.

Otu said: “This is not just an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in our people, our culture, and our future.”
 
Also, as part of renewed efforts to reposition Cross River State as a leading eco-tourism destination, the governor said he has concluded the redesign of the iconic Obudu Ranch Resort, setting the stage for its long-awaited reconstruction.

The resort, once a crown jewel of Nigeria’s tourism landscape, has seen years of decline.
 
However, with the new blueprint now completed, authorities said the facility will be transformed into a world-class destination that blends environmental sustainability with hospitality excellence.
 
According to the governor’s Special Adviser on Obudu Ranch Resort, Sunday Michael, the project signals a step towards revitalising the state’s tourism infrastructure.