By Onwa Ekor
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s readiness for synergy aimed at unlocking Cross River’s vast economic potential.
This, Otu reasoned, will revive key economic assets while positioning the state as a preferred destination for local and international investment.
According to him, sustained collaboration with critical federal agencies such as the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) remains sacrosanct to his vision of transforming the state into a leading hub for commerce, tourism, manufacturing and export-oriented industries.
The governor made the remarks when he received NEPZA management team led by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, during a courtesy visit to the State Executive Council Chambers, Governor’s Office Calabar, recently.
Welcoming the delegation, Otu expressed appreciation for the support and commitment NEPZA has shown towards the state over the years, noting that, the Agency has remained a dependable partner in the state’s economic development aspirations.
He said the renewed engagement between both institutions signals a new chapter of possibilities that could significantly alter the economic landscape of the state.
“We have a lot of possibilities in Cross River and we deeply appreciate the support that NEPZA has continued to provide over the years,” Otu said, adding that, “the next phase of our engagement is even more promising because it creates stronger convergence with Tinapa and opens up greater opportunities for investment, trade, manufacturing, tourism, and overall economic growth.”
He stressed that Cross River possesses unique advantages that place it in a strong position to attract investors, including its strategic coastal location, rich tourism assets, fertile agricultural land, and peaceful business environment.
According to Otu, the state government is deliberately implementing policies designed to make investment easier and more profitable.
“Our administration is committed to creating an enabling environment where businesses can thrive without unnecessary bottlenecks.
“We are steadily addressing challenges that may discourage investment. From infrastructure development to security enhancement and the protection of critical public assets, we are taking deliberate steps to ensure that investors have confidence in Cross River,” the governor assured.
Admitting that one of the administration’s major priorities remains the revival of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, which was conceived as a flagship economic project but has struggled to realize its full potential over the years, Otu said: “Tinapa is gradually coming back to life, we are seeing renewed interest from credible investors, and I am pleased to inform you that an American company is preparing to commence operations at the facility. This is a strong indication that confidence is returning and that the vision behind Tinapa is once again becoming attainable.”
Earlier, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPZA, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, commended the governor for the steps being taken to reposition the state economically.
He described Cross River as one of Nigeria’s most naturally endowed states, possessing a rare combination of assets capable of supporting large-scale economic transformation.
“Cross River is exceptionally blessed, only few states in Nigeria possess the diversity of opportunities that exist here. From tourism and agriculture to manufacturing, maritime activities, and export-driven enterprises, the potential is enormous. What is required is strategic coordination and sustained investment,” Ogunyemi said.
The NEPZA boss specifically highlighted the state’s tourism appeal and geographical advantages, noting that assets such as the Obudu Mountain Resort, its extensive coastline, and proximity to international markets provide significant opportunities for economic expansion and foreign direct investment.
“When you look at Cross River, you see a state that already possesses many of the ingredients required to become a major investment destination.
“The tourism assets are globally competitive, the coastal advantages are undeniable, and the opportunities for industrial development are immense.
“These are strengths that can be harnessed to create jobs and wealth on a large scale,” he stated.
He revealed that the authority is also paying close attention to emerging opportunities in coastal economic development, logistics corridors, and export-focused industrial clusters that can support manufacturing activities and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.
“We are actively examining opportunities that can leverage coastal advantages, encourage exports, promote industrial clustering, and stimulate job creation. Cross River is well positioned to benefit from such initiatives because of its strategic location and abundant resources.”
“We are ready to deepen our partnership with Cross River,” Ogunyemi said, adding that “our commitment is not just to discussions but to implementation. We will continue to engage with the state government, investors, and development partners to ensure that these opportunities are transformed into viable projects that deliver real economic value, create employment, and contribute to national development.”
