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Gov Otu bangs on ‘bridges of culture, vessels of hope’
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It’s “game-changing intervention” – High Chief Edem Duke
For its landmark move of procuring two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft to tackle flight delays and cancellations in Cross River State, the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration has received kudos from the Cross River State Journalists Forum (CROSSJOF) in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Forum said this development has further demonstrated Governor Otu’s resolve to re-position Cross River as a premier destination for tourism and investment in the country.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Francisca Ogar and the Secretary, Raphael Ekpang, CROSSJOF described the aircraft purchase as commendable, noting that it signals the administration’s renewed push for regional connectivity and economic growth.
With these two CRJ1000s, the State now has four aircraft in its fleet following the initial acquisition of two Boeing 737s which were handed over to Aero Contractors for operations by the immediate past Governor Ben Ayade
Aviation industry reports indicated that the newly delivered Bombardiers will be operated temporarily by ValueJet Airline, pending the State’s successful application for an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
Speaking while taking delivery of both aircraft, Governor Otu said the acquisition was “a long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation for our dear state.”
He said the two aircraft will be officially commissioned by the Ministry of Aviation on 12th August 2025, adding that they will help eliminate persistent challenges faced by air travellers to and from Calabar, including frequent flight delays and cancellations.
Hear him, “For too long, our people and visitors alike have endured the hardship of air travel disruptions. Today marks the beginning of the end of that era.”
The governor further stressed that the development goes beyond transportation, saying, “These aircraft are more than machines, they are catalysts of commerce, bridges of culture, and vessels of hope.
“With Carnival Calabar, Obudu Ranch Resort, and our ecotourism assets beckoning the world, accessibility must never be a hindrance again.”
Meanwhile, while praising the governor’s foresight in acquiring the aircraft, former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke, described it as a “game-changing intervention.”
He said, “This singular move will dramatically alter the perception of Calabar as a difficult destination, thereby opening up new opportunities in hospitality, conferences, agriculture, and export”.
In a related development, CROSSJOF has also urged the State government to urgently tackle the land transportation challenges to further boost tourism and business investments in the state.
For the Forum, it would be a big plus for the State’s image to work on the existing road network connecting the Northern and Central senatorial districts through Obudu-Ikom and Bekwara as well as Ogoja-Ikom axis.
