Cross River State has approved ₦18 billion to restore top tourist sites and boost travel appeal.
The initiative targets infrastructure upgrades and cultural revival ahead of Calabar Carnival 2025.
The Cross River State Government has approved the release of ₦18 billion to rehabilitate and upgrade some of its most iconic tourism assets, including the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, Obudu Mountain Resort, Marina Resort, and Kwa Falls.
This development was announced on Thursday by Thomas Ikpeme, Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Tourism Development, who revealed the fund is a cornerstone of the administration’s “Season of Sweetness” initiative. The effort aims to revive dilapidated infrastructure, enhance the tourism appeal, and reinvigorate the state’s position as a leading destination in West Africa.
Ikpeme noted that the ₦18 billion allocation would not only cover the restoration of major tourism sites but also fund the remodeling of Amber Tinapa Hotel and Studio Tinapa. A new pier harbor is also in the pipeline to bolster waterfront tourism and leisure activities in the state.
“Governor Bassey Otu has approved the release of ₦18 billion to boost tourism infrastructure and reposition Cross River as a leading destination in Nigeria and West Africa,” he stated.
The government aims to reposition Cross River as a key player in Nigeria’s tourism economy through structural upgrades, increased accessibility, and expanded accommodation capacity.
The investment will also drive the development of Axari Towers, a modern hotel project that is expected to expand lodging capacity in Calabar significantly. With the 20th anniversary of the iconic Calabar Carnival approaching in December 2025, the state is preparing to welcome an influx of tourists and participants.
Ikpeme emphasized that the investment aligns with broader plans to support event tourism and respond to rising demand for modern hospitality infrastructure.
The state is simultaneously enhancing its aviation and business tourism sectors. It recently acquired two CRJ 1000 aircraft to expand Cally Air’s fleet, its state-owned airline run in partnership with Aero Contractors and ValueJet. The move supplements the airline’s existing Boeing 737 services and is expected to improve tourist mobility across Nigeria.
Additionally, ongoing upgrades at the Calabar International Convention Centre (CICC) and the Calabar Cultural Centre are designed to attract global conferences and high-profile events.
Beyond physical assets, the “Season of Sweetness” strategy encompasses launching the “Experience Calabar” campaign and developing a Heritage Market that showcases indigenous crafts, art, and cultural heritage.
Governor Otu has reiterated that the initiative extends beyond construction projects, describing it as an investment in the state’s people, culture, and economic sustainability.
“This program is about building the future, revitalizing our culture, creating jobs, and ensuring that local communities benefit from increased tourism activity,” he said.
The state government believes that this transformation will stimulate private-sector investment, create employment opportunities, and promote inclusive, community-based tourism by expanding access, diversifying lodging options, and deepening local participation in the tourism value chain.
