The Cross River State Government has taken another significant step towards revitalising the state’s tourism sector with the signing of a 25-year concession agreement with Living Curation Real Estate Limited for the rehabilitation and development of the Obudu Cattle Ranch Resort, Utanga Safari Lodge and the Bebi Airstrip.
The concession is expected to transform the iconic tourism assets into a world-class tourism, hospitality, scientific eco-tourism and conservation destination, in line with the vision of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu to restore Cross River’s position as Nigeria’s leading tourism destination.
The agreement was formalised on Tuesday at the Office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, Esq.; with the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Eme Affiah; Commissioner for Power, Prince Eka Williams; and representatives of Living Curation Real Estate Limited, Mr. Amit Ghosh and Mr. Sajay Srivast, signing on behalf of their respective parties.
Under the terms of the agreement, the concession will run for 25 years, after which the rehabilitated facilities will revert to the Cross River State Government.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Barr. Ani described the agreement as a milestone in the implementation of Governor Otu’s tourism development agenda, noting that it reflects the administration’s commitment to attracting strategic private sector investment to unlock the full potential of the state’s tourism assets.
He said the concession would facilitate the comprehensive redevelopment of the Obudu Cattle Ranch Resort, Utanga Safari Lodge and the Bebi Airstrip into globally competitive tourism and hospitality destinations capable of attracting local and international visitors.
According to the Attorney General, the project will stimulate economic activities in the host communities through substantial investments, employment opportunities, empowerment programmes and increased business activities.
He added that women in the host communities would be among the major beneficiaries of the initiative, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive economic growth.
Barr. Ani expressed confidence that the partnership would not only reposition Cross River’s tourism industry but also promote environmental conservation, scientific eco-tourism and sustainable socio-economic development.
In his remarks, a representative of Living Curation Real Estate Limited, Mr. Amit Ghosh, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for the confidence reposed in the company and pledged to deliver a world-class tourism and hospitality destination that aligns with the administration’s vision.
By Mary Oben
