By Onwa Ekor
As Cross River secures the hosting rights for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2026, a development that would position Calabar as the next continental hub for trade, culture and investment, the governor, Prince Bassey Otu, says the state is ready to host the world.
The pronouncement came to fruition in Algiers, Algeria, where Otu signed the host rights during the 5th Sub-sovereign business engagement on the sidelines of IATF 2025.
He described the development as a milestone not only for Cross River but Nigeria and Africa at large.
“This is a profound honour for our state and a defining moment for Africa’s sub-sovereign governments.
“Cross River is ready to lead Africa into a new era of trade and cooperation, where our local power fuels global impact,” the governor assured.
He maintained that the 2026 edition in Calabar would reflect the best of Africa’s ingenuity, heritage and innovation.
“We are prepared to host the world for in Calabar, you will encounter a city that is second to none in hospitality, culture, and tourism.
“We will deliver a trade fair that Africa will never forget, because it will showcase who we are and what we can achieve together,” Otu stated.
Lauding Afrexim Bank for supporting intra-African trade and particularly the creative industries, the governor pointed out that the bank has shown tremendous leadership standing behind Africa’s creative sector.
According to him, “they understand that our music, our film, our art and our stories are not just cultural treasures, but economic powerhouses that can compete anywhere in the world.”
Highlighting the role of sub-sovereign governments, Otu enjoined regional leaders to embrace their responsibilities in Africa’s growth.
“The way forward is for governors and sub-national entities to be the transformers and architects of Africa’s future.
“It is at this level that real impact is felt, and it is at this level that we can unlock the full promise of the African continental free trade area,” the governor argued.
He assured that Cross River would rise to the challenge of hosting a continental fair of such magnitude as the state will prepare infrastructure, mobilize its private sector and harness the people’s energy to ensure a successful hosting, adding that, Calabar will not only be ready but, will exceed expectations.
Analysts have already described the hosting rights as a diplomatic and economic coup for Cross River with projections of billions in trade volumes, massive job creation and renewed investor confidence.
Also, observers in Algiers, noted that Calabar’s selection reflected its historic role as a hub of commerce and its reputation for world-class hospitality.
Otu concluded with a call for unity across Africa as he remarked that, this is bigger than Cross River, it is about Africa telling its story, trading with itself, and building prosperity from within.
“The world is coming to Calabar in 2026, and we are ready to welcome them with open arms,” the governor affirmed.
