By Onwa Ekor
The Chairman of Obudu local government council, Dr. Peter Undiandeye, has commended Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, for prioritizing culture and tourism in Cross River’s development agenda, saying it will promote unity, attract visitors and stimulate economic growth.
Speaking at the 2026 Obudu New Yam Festival, Bewhutang, at the council secretariat recently, Undiandeye said the governor’s support for heritage-based initiatives was helping to preserve community identity while creating platforms to showcase the state’s culture to the world.
“Cross River is endowed with diverse traditions, festivals and heritage sites capable of attracting visitors and generating opportunities for our people.
“The governor’s renewed emphasis on cultural tourism will enable communities to turn their heritage into an economic asset and strengthen the state’s position as a leading tourism destination,” he said.
The council chairman said the benefits of cultural tourism extend to the grassroots, creating income for farmers, traders, artisans, hospitality operators and young entrepreneurs.
He described festivals like Bewhutang as tools for peace-building and for passing traditions to younger generations.
He urged residents across the state to support the governor’s vision by preserving traditions, promoting peaceful coexistence and creating a welcoming environment for tourists and investors.
Undiandeye also called for stronger collaboration among government, traditional institutions, youth and women’s groups to develop the state’s cultural assets into sustainable sources of jobs and revenue.
He commended the Central Planning Committee for a successful festival and said the event demonstrated the power of culture to unite the people and showcase Obudu’s identity.
In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Obudu, Utsu Felix Ukudare, represented by High Chief Tony Undiandeye, described the festival as key to preserving Obudu’s history.
He also spoke on the proposed new Paramount Ruler’s Palace, saying the project, now at PVC stage, will honor the legacy of the late monarch, Uti Jeddy Agba and serve as a center for dialogue, justice and traditional leadership.
The event featured the cutting of a commemorative cake and the official launch of the palace construction project.
Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Noel Ugbong, thanked Otu, the deputy governor, Peter Odey, traditional rulers, sponsors and Obudu indigenes for their support.
