By Abasi Ita, Calabar
As part of deliberate efforts to reposition Cross River State’s tourism sector into a global hub, the state government is set to seal a deal with a consortium for the construction of a five-star hotel at the Obudu Ranch Resort.
The initiative aims to transform the iconic Obudu Ranch Resort into not only Nigeria’s foremost tourism destination but also a global tourism epicenter.
Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong, disclosed this while receiving the award won by Team Cross River as Best Nigerian Stand at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market held in Lagos.
According to him, the state is finalizing a ₦100 billion concession agreement to redevelop the Obudu Ranch Resort into a premium hospitality and leisure complex anchored by the construction of a world-class hotel. “As we speak, we are signing off a concession agreement for the development of Obudu Cattle Ranch into a five-star facility. By next week, we will formalize the process, and about 100 billion naira will be invested in the ranch,” Ekpenyong revealed.
He explained that the initiative aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s vision to restore Cross River’s tourism heritage and diversify the state’s economy. He added that the government is expanding its tourism calendar next year with major events such as the Cross River Marathon and a Food Festival designed to boost visitor traffic and economic activity.
Prince Ekpenyong commended the Akwaaba organizing team, particularly its founder, Mr. Ikechi Uko, for supporting the state’s renewed tourism agenda. “We are excited about the partnership with Akwaaba as it aligns with our goal of repositioning Cross River as the preferred tourism destination in Africa,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr. Ikechi Uko, organizer of the Akwaaba African Travel Market, praised Cross River for its sustained commitment to tourism development, describing it as one of the few Nigerian states with the structure and expertise to drive the sector effectively. “Cross River has a team that understands tourism, with the vision and network to deliver. I look forward to a deeper partnership with the state to unlock its full tourism potential,” Uko stated.
Once Nigeria’s flagship holiday destination, the Obudu Ranch Resort is expected to regain its prominence under the planned redevelopment, positioning Cross River as a major player in Africa’s luxury tourism landscape.