Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has described the formal return of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort to the state government as “a battle fought and won for all Cross Riverians,” marking what he called a new dawn for the state’s economy.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Calabar, at the weekend, Gov. Otu said the recovery of Tinapa symbolized not just the reclaiming of a major asset but the revival of a vision that once placed Cross River on the global economic map.
“The return of Tinapa is not merely an event; it is a rebirth, the triumph of faith, patience, and resilience,” he said.
Recalling its conception under former Governor Donald Duke, Gov. Otu said Tinapa once showcased the state’s capacity for bold, investment-driven development.
He assured that his administration would reposition the free zone as a hub for trade, tourism, and creative enterprise.
“We are breathing new life into Tinapa, not as a relic of abandoned ambition but as a living symbol of Cross River’s resilience,” he stated.
The governor disclosed that the state is already engaging credible investors and partners to transform the facility into a vibrant centre of commerce and job creation, operating under a transparent and accountable management structure.
“This moment is a collective victory — for our past leaders whose dreams gave it birth, for the government that fought to reclaim it, and for the future generations who will inherit its promise. Together, we shall turn this symbol of struggle into a testament of triumph,” Gov. Otu said.
He commended the federal government and relevant agencies for their cooperation in the transition process, commending all stakeholders who worked behind the scenes to make the return possible.
Gov. Otu concluded with a note of hope and determination, reaffirming that the rebirth of Tinapa would mark the beginning of a new economic dawn for Cross River State.
“We are a people of faith and courage. Tinapa is once again ours — and under our watch, it shall flourish.
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“Let the world know that Cross River has reclaimed her pride, and from this soil, we shall build the future we have always dreamed of,” he added.
Gov. Otu recalled that, before the establishment of Tinapa in 2007, the state had few landmark projects that drew national and international attention.
He noted that the conception of Tinapa by former Governor Donald Duke marked a turning point in the state’s developmental trajectory, earning it global recognition as a forward-looking and investment-friendly destination.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mike Odere, said the handover represents a revival of what many thought was lost forever.
“It means pride, it means reawakening, it means renewed hope,” Odere said, adding that with full ownership now restored, the government would be free to attract investors and reposition the facility for maximum economic impact.
