Governor Bassey Otu has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships aimed at unlocking Cross River State's vast economic potential, particularly through the revitalisation of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort and the development of export-oriented investments.
The governor stated this on Monday when he received the management team of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), led by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, during a courtesy visit to the Governor's Office Conference Room, Calabar.
Otu commended Ogunyemi for the support extended to Cross River State over the years, particularly in efforts geared toward restoring confidence in Tinapa and repositioning it as a viable economic hub.
"We have a lot of possibilities, and we appreciate the support that NEPZA has continued to provide. The next phase of our engagement is even more promising because it will create stronger convergence with Tinapa and open up greater opportunities for investment and economic growth in the state," the governor said.
He noted that his administration remains focused on creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, adding that the government is actively addressing challenges that could hinder investment — including issues relating to infrastructure, security, and the protection of critical assets.
The governor disclosed that Tinapa is gradually returning to life, revealing that an American company is set to commence operations at the facility as part of ongoing efforts to attract credible investors and restore the resort's commercial relevance.
According to him, the renewed interest in Tinapa underscores growing investor confidence in Cross River's economic prospects and validates the state's strategy of leveraging partnerships to drive sustainable development.
Earlier, Ogunyemi praised Cross River's enormous natural and economic endowments, describing the state as one of Nigeria's most resource-rich destinations, with immense opportunities across tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and export-driven industries.
The NEPZA chief highlighted the state's unique assets — including the Obudu Mountain Resort and its coastal advantages — noting that Cross River possesses many of the ingredients required to become a major investment and export hub.
He disclosed that NEPZA is exploring new models for the development of export processing zones and special economic zones across the country, drawing lessons from successful international examples, particularly the Singapore model.
Ogunyemi further revealed that the authority is actively studying opportunities in coastal economic development and export-focused industrial clusters, which could accelerate industrialisation and job creation.
He assured Governor Otu of NEPZA's readiness to deepen collaboration with the state government and work with relevant stakeholders to translate identified opportunities into viable projects.
