The Government of Cross River State led by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu came onboard in 2023 with positive energy to revive all facets of the states moribund economy, with particular reference to sectors which hitherto had created basis for placing the state at par comparatively with other trending global cities. One of such sectors is the Tourism cluster which warehouses the Hospitality Industry of the state.
Amidst infrastructural challenges that at the time were bedeviling the state Capital, a present state of the Hospitality Sector of our dear state shows tremendously magnificent growth and development, with over billion naira investments attracted into the sector in the past 2 years. It is worthy of note that the state now attracts a consistently steady influx of guests and activities thus resulting in increase of occupancy and patronage of our hotels and other hospitality outfits.
In 2 years, we have witnessed the opening of new Hotels, Service Apartments, Night Clubs, Cinemas, Fast Food Restaurants, Bars and Lounges etc. This is clearly an indication that the State’s hospitality sector is attracting profitable traffic.
Statically, the accommodation -Hotel business now enjoys over 50% room occupancy daily, a feat which was incredibly impossible before now. From 2023 till date, Average Room Occupancy stands at 55-65% monthly.
Most hotels-Boutique hotels record as high as 75-90% occupancy.
Frankly, our dear State has not witnessed such a rapid boom in the hospitality sector for over a decade. It is pertinent to note that the present administration’s vision prioritizes Tourism promotion and Development.
Gladly, the hospitality sector of the state is once again playing host to international and National events and conferences. The Carnival is once again attracting momentum with a sway of varying activities like in the pre-Covid days. This year’s carnival being the 20th edition, is a
‘must attend”, -where else will you really experience hospitality like Cross River?
Hence, it is mischievous and deceptive for some content creators to seek out old videos and outdated statistics taken at a time when our nation’s economy went into recession (2016-2022), to give the world a false impression about our present hospitality structure which is gaining its glory.
Cross River State is once again on the path of sustainable progress, let’s all lend a hand of positive partnership.
Signed:
Albert Kusi
Special Adviser, Hospitality Government of Cross River State
