In a major step towards actualizing the proposed Calabar Ultramodern International Market, the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has welcomed a high-powered delegation from Mesotho Group Limited to his office in Calabar. The visit signals the state government’s growing momentum in attracting credible investors and transforming Cross River into a leading commercial hub in West Africa.
The meeting, held at the Glass House – the Deputy Governor’s temporary office – was part of ongoing negotiations with prospective partners for the multibillion-naira market project. Receiving the team, led by Mesotho’s Co-Presidents and Managing Directors, Pastor Meso Dickson and Hon. Dr. Jerry Damara, Odey commended their keen interest in the state and reaffirmed Governor Bassey Otu’s unwavering commitment to fostering a secure, business-friendly environment for investors.
“Cross River remains one of the safest states in Nigeria,” Odey said, “and we are committed to creating an environment where investors can thrive. With recent developments such as the $3.5 billion AfriExim Bank approval for the Bakassi Deep Sea Port and the acquisition of new aircraft to strengthen our aviation sector, our state is open for business.”
The Deputy Governor acknowledged previous disappointments in the area of investor commitment but expressed optimism in Mesotho Group’s credibility and track record. He urged the team to remain transparent and consistent with their pledges, noting that the state’s long-term vision is to establish Calabar as a key node in international trade and commerce.
Also present at the meeting was the State Commissioner for Commerce, Elder Hon. Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Duke Orok (JP), who facilitated the engagement. She explained that Mesotho Group had already presented its proposal before the State Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Council and had been shortlisted as a key investor for the market project.
“We are very intentional about attracting the right investors,” the Commissioner said. “This meeting is to further strengthen our partnership and fine-tune modalities for project commencement.”
In their separate remarks, Pst. Meso Dickson and Hon. Dr. Jerry Damara reaffirmed their company’s readiness to commence work on the proposed Calabar Ultramodern International Market. Pst. Dickson highlighted the firm’s expertise in executing large-scale infrastructure, referencing their success with the Kefas International Market and Nigeria’s largest abattoir in Taraba State, as well as the Kugbo International Market in Abuja, developed across a 30-hectare expanse.
He disclosed that Mesotho Group has earmarked a private investment of ₦150 billion for the Calabar project, which will include the construction of a jetty to boost international maritime trade.
Hon. Dr. Damara further attributed their commitment to the credibility of the Otu-led administration and the economic prospects of Cross River. “This administration’s integrity is a key factor in our investment decision. The Calabar market is a top priority for us, and we are fully prepared to deliver.”
Also in attendance were senior officials of Mesotho Group, including Brig. Gen. O. Iduniboye Obu (rtd), Deputy Director; Engr. Hassan Rizk, Head of Engineering; and Mr. Sam Markus, Head of Protocol.
The interaction ended with mutual assurances and a shared vision to fast-track the transformation of Calabar into a bustling center of commerce.
