Cross River State has showcased its tourism assets, investment opportunities and peaceful environment to a delegation of Foreign Defence Advisers and Defence Attachés accredited to Nigeria, as Governor Bassey Edet Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning the state as a leading destination for tourism, business and international partnerships.
The delegation was hosted at the Obudu Ranch Resort, where a banquet and cultural reception highlighted the state’s natural attractions, hospitality and economic prospects.
Representing Governor Otu, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey said tourism remains a key pillar of the administration’s economic development strategy, with sustained investments being directed toward restoring the Obudu Ranch Resort to world-class standards.
According to the governor, the state is focusing on improving infrastructure, strengthening security and enhancing hospitality services to attract both local and international visitors while creating new opportunities for businesses and investors.
Governor Otu described Cross River as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, stressing that its stable security environment continues to boost investor confidence across sectors including tourism, agriculture, solid minerals and hospitality.
He noted that the visit by foreign defence representatives provides an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties while exposing the international community to the state’s economic potential.
The governor also commended the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for selecting Cross River as one of the destinations for the official tour, saying the visit reinforces confidence in the state’s commitment to peace, security and sustainable development.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, the Director of Foreign Liaison at the Defence Intelligence Agency, Major General Ojogbane Adegbe, said the tour was designed to give foreign military representatives and diplomats a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s geography, culture, security environment and development priorities.
He explained that the initiative would strengthen diplomatic and military cooperation while promoting Nigeria’s tourism potential and cultural heritage.
Major General Adegbe praised the Cross River State Government for maintaining peace and investing in tourism infrastructure, describing the state as an attractive destination for both investment and leisure.
Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, encouraged the visiting delegates to explore the state’s tourism attractions and investment opportunities while experiencing the hospitality for which Cross River is widely known.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Obudu Ranch Resort, Mr. Sunday Michael, described the visit as another milestone in promoting Cross River on the global stage.
He said the presence of foreign defence officials demonstrates growing international confidence in the state’s security, tourism sector and investment climate.
The visit featured a guided tour of the Obudu Ranch Resort led by Deputy Governor Peter Odey alongside senior government officials.
Delegates also witnessed colourful cultural performances, participated in a traditional bonfire ceremony and received commemorative souvenirs as part of efforts to promote Cross River’s rich cultural heritage and strengthen international goodwill.
The state government expressed optimism that the engagement would encourage future investments, deepen diplomatic relationships and boost global interest in Cross River as one of Nigeria’s premier tourism destinations.
