Governor Bassey Edet Otu has taken delivery of two brand-new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft. The regional jets, each capable of seating up to 100 passengers, were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Otu, accompanied by his wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, and notable dignitaries including former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke, welcomed the new additions with optimism and fanfare. The Ministry of Aviation is set to officially commission the aircraft on August 12, 2025.
The acquisition marks a major milestone in Cross River’s journey toward reviving its air transport system. Governor Otu noted that the new jets would put an end to the persistent challenges of flight delays and cancellations plaguing travelers in and out of Calabar. “This is more than just an aviation upgrade; it’s the beginning of an aviation renaissance in Cross River,” he declared.
Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Imah Eno Utum, revealed that the state now owns a total of four aircraft. While two Boeing 747s acquired during former Governor Ben Ayade’s administration are currently operated by Aero Contractors, the newly purchased Bombardier CRJ1000s will be managed by ValueJet Airline, at least until the state secures its own Air Operator’s Certificate to function as a fully independent airline.
Governor Otu emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, especially as Cross River continues to promote signature attractions like Carnival Calabar, the Obudu Ranch Resort, and the state’s vast ecotourism assets. “Accessibility must never be a hindrance again,” he stated. “Beyond tourism, this development is poised to boost investor confidence and draw serious business interest into the state.”
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Former Minister Edem Duke praised the acquisition as a “game-changing intervention” and a clear indicator of Governor Otu’s visionary leadership. He added that the move will significantly transform Calabar’s reputation from a hard-to-reach location to a thriving destination for tourism, conferences, agriculture, and export opportunities.
With this strategic boost in infrastructure, Cross River appears set to redefine its future as both a tourism and investment hub in Nigeria.
