The Cross River State government has announced plans to revolutionise tourism in the state by converting the Obudu Ranch Resort into a five-star facility.

Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong, the Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, disclosed this while receiving an award as the Best Nigerian Stand at the 21st Akwaaba ceremony.

He said, “As we speak to you now, we are signing off on a concession agreement for the development of Obudu Cattle Ranch into a five-star facility.

“By next week, we are going for that activity, where we will sign up that agreement, and about 100 billion naira will be invested in the ranch,” he said.

He said Cross River is not a one-destination state, as it has many tourism products to sell to the world.

He disclosed that the state will emerge stronger next year by stepping up its game, as larger events, including the marathon and food festival, will be coming to the state.

He welcomed the partnership with the Akwaaba team, particularly its organiser, Ikechi Uko, for partnering with the state to drive the sector.

In his remarks, Ikechi Uko said that Cross River is one of the few states in Nigeria that is blessed with competent people driving its tourism.

He said the present team in the state has the institutional memory, network and capacity to deliver, and he looks forward to a greater partnership with Cross River State.