The Cross River State Project Monitoring and Evaluation Team has carried out an inspection visit to the ongoing remodeling and reconstruction of the Cultural Centre Calabar, a landmark project envisioned to become one of Nigeria’s foremost cultural and tourism destination.
The modernization and remodeling of the Cultural Centre Calabar was initiated by the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, as part of his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the state’s tourism and cultural heritage.
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During the inspection, the project contractor, High Chief Edem Duke gave a detailed presentation on the design and progress of the project. He highlighted its economic potential and emphasized its role in empowering young Cross Riverians through creative and cultural exploits. Chief Duke explained that the renewed Cultural Centre will be a community hub for leisure and entertainment, event and conference venue, digital advertising screens, a recreational park, and artistic attractions that tell the story of Cross River’s rich cultural history.
Also speaking, the Project Manager, Mr. Willie Arikpo, provided updates on the project’s progress, noting that significant milestones have been achieved and construction is moving steadily toward completion.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture,Mrs. Eme Affiah, who was also on the entourage of the Special Adviser, commended the pace and quality of work. She expressed confidence that the project will have a transformative impact on the state’s tourism economy, describing it as a major step toward “making Cross River great again” and reaffirm the state’s position as a premier destination for visitors and investors.
From the Governor’s Office, the Special Adviser on Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Raphael Adoga, praised the dedication and professionalism of the project team. He described the Cultural Centre transformation as commendable and inspiring, adding that once completed, it will provide a vibrant, inclusive, and culturally enriching environment for residents and tourists alike.
Mr. Adoga urged all stakeholders to maintain their commitment toward timely completion, aligning with High Chief Edem Duke’s vision of turning the facility into a world-class entertainment and tourism hub the best of its kind in Nigeria.
In his closing remarks, High Chief Edem Duke commended the Monitoring and Evaluation Team for taking the time to visit the Cultural Centre project site and witness the remarkable progress made so far.
Also present at the inspection were Engineers from the Ministry of Works and other Technical Officials who participated in the assessment of the project’s remodeling progress.
Upon completion, the Cultural Centre Calabar is expected to redefine Calabar’s cultural identity and serve as a beacon of creativity, tourism, and economic revival for Cross River State.
