Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning tourism as a major driver of economic growth and sustainable development while strengthening security collaboration and fostering strategic international partnerships.
Otu, represented by his deputy, Dr Peter Odey, made this known during a banquet in honour of a delegation of Foreign Defence Advisers and Defence Attachés at the International Conference Centre, Obudu Ranch Resort.
He highlighted the deliberate efforts of the Bassey Otu administration to revitalise and reposition the Obudu Ranch Resort as a world-class tourism destination capable of attracting both domestic and international visitors.
He noted that tourism remains a key pillar of the administration’s development agenda, stressing that strategic investments in infrastructure, security, and hospitality are creating an enabling environment for tourism, investment, and economic diversification.
Odey described Cross River as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and secure states, adding that the prevailing atmosphere of peace has continued to inspire investor confidence and stimulate growth across critical sectors of the economy.
According to him, the state is richly endowed with exceptional tourism assets, ecological resources, and cultural diversity, making it a preferred destination for leisure, business, and investment.
He said that the visit by the Foreign Defence Advisers and Defence Attachés would deepen international cooperation while showcasing the state’s immense opportunities in tourism, agriculture, solid minerals, and other strategic sectors.
He lauded the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for choosing Cross River State for the tour and assured the delegation of the government’s unwavering commitment to sustaining peace, security, and policies that promote inclusive development.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, represented by the Director of Foreign Liaison, Defence Intelligence Agency, Major General Ojogbane Adegbe, said the visit would provide the visiting Foreign Defence Advisers and Defence Attachés with firsthand knowledge of Nigeria’s geography, culture, security environment, and development priorities, thereby strengthening mutual understanding and future collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He said that the visit, organised as part of the Defence Intelligence Agency’s geographical and cultural tour of Cross River State and Nigeria at large, offered the visiting diplomats and military representatives firsthand experience of the country’s breathtaking natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality.
He commended the Otu administration for sustaining peace and security in Cross River State while prioritising tourism development and critical infrastructure that continue to enhance the state’s appeal as a destination for investment and leisure.
Also delivering a goodwill message, the Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, commended the Defence Intelligence Agency for choosing Cross River State as a destination for the tour. He encouraged the visiting delegates to take advantage of the state’s rich cultural heritage, unique tourism attractions, and investment opportunities while enjoying the warmth and hospitality for which Cross River is renowned.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Obudu Ranch Resort, Mr. Sunday Michael, described the visit as a significant milestone in promoting Cross River State’s tourism potential and strengthening international goodwill. He noted that the presence of the Defence Intelligence Agency, Foreign Defence Advisers, and Defence Attachés reflects growing confidence in the state’s peaceful environment, warm hospitality, and commitment to sustainable development.
Michael further described the Obudu Ranch Resort as a symbol of Cross River’s tourism excellence and expressed confidence that the visit would foster stronger partnerships, encourage greater investment, and provide the international community with a deeper appreciation of the state’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vast economic potential.
The visit featured a guided tour of the Obudu Ranch Resort led by the Deputy Governor, accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Obudu Ranch Resort, Mr. Sunday Michael, and the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Dr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye.
Other highlights included a colourful display of the state’s rich cultural heritage, a bonfire ceremony, and the presentation of souvenirs to the delegates.
By Dianabasi Effiong
