Culture

Cross River State Government to revive Obudu mountain resort for tourism growth

Published

1 year ago

March 26, 2025

Cross River State Government takes over Obudu Mountain Resort, aiming to restore its legacy and boost tourism and economic growth through revitalisation efforts

In a bold move to restore one of Nigeria’s most iconic tourist destinations, the Cross River State Government has officially reclaimed Obudu Mountain Resort, previously known as Obudu Cattle Ranch.

Also read: Obudu Cattle Ranch Revamped For Tourism

The revitalisation plan aims to restore the resort to its former glory and transform it into a world-class tourism destination once again.

Located in the Obudu community of Cross River, on the Nigeria-Cameroon border, Obudu Mountain Resort has a rich history that dates back to its origins as a cattle ranch established in 1949 by Scottish rancher Hugh Jones.

Over the years, the ranch evolved into a major tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views, a temperate climate, and a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking.

The resort was privatised in 2005 and renamed Obudu Mountain Resort, but despite its early success, it has seen a decline in fortunes in recent years.

The Cross River State Government’s decision to take over the resort follows the termination of the concession agreement with CIBA Construction Company Limited, the previous managers of the facility.

The resort had suffered significant damages and vandalisation, amounting to an estimated ₦6.8 billion in losses. However, despite these setbacks, the state government remains committed to restoring the resort and positioning it as a key driver of tourism and economic development.

The plan to revitalise the resort is part of Governor Bassey Otu’s vision to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the state.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Obudu Ranch Resort, Sunday Michael, stated, “With a renewed sense of purpose, the Obudu Mountain Resort is set to rise again stronger, more vibrant, and ready to welcome visitors from around the world.”

Obudu’s potential as a tourism hub has long been recognised. In the 1990s, former Governor Donald Duke invested in the resort’s infrastructure, upgrading it into a world-class facility.

He added a cable car, helicopter landing pad, a water park, and 20 new mountain villas, making it a premier destination for both local and international tourists.

The new revitalisation project aims to rebuild the resort’s infrastructure and restore its status as one of Africa’s most popular tourist attractions.

This includes renovations to existing facilities, new investments in the region’s natural assets, and the introduction of new tourist attractions and events.

The government’s efforts are supported by a partnership with Marriott International and CIBA Construction Company Limited, which will oversee the redevelopment.

The resort’s restoration is expected to have significant economic benefits for the local community, creating employment opportunities and boosting the state’s tourism revenue.

In addition to its tourism potential, Obudu Mountain Resort is also seen as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The Federal Government has pledged to transform the Obudu Cattle Ranch into a major hub for livestock and dairy production.

This will contribute to Nigeria’s food security and reduce the country’s reliance on beef and dairy imports. Governor Otu has emphasised that the resort’s unique climate and vast landmass make it an ideal location for large-scale livestock farming.

Simon Ogbaji, an agricultural expert in Cross River State, highlighted the potential for the region to become a major producer of beef and dairy products if the ranch is revived.

“If the ranch is put to use, we will not depend on the North for beef production again,” Ogbaji said. “There will be enough production of milk and beef in Cross River.”

As part of the revitalisation plan, the government will engage local communities in cattle rearing and farming, further enhancing the socio-economic impact of the project.

With its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and vast potential for tourism and agriculture, the Obudu Mountain Resort is poised for a new era.

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Culture

WAKE UP! Art Exhibition Returns for a Second Act

Published

2 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Mariam Balogun

The contemporary art and photography exhibition “Wake Up!” is back again for a second edition.

Curated by Awele Onwordi, Wake Up! 2 exhibition pays homage to the Nigerian youth and burgeoning street culture which many of its contributing artists reference in their works.

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Titled “Young, Wild, Free”, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, resilience, freedom and cultural influence found in Nigerian youth.

Taking aim at societal issues and economic concerns, the exhibit reflects the youth and their refusal to compromise or bow despite all the challenges stacked against them while charting youth culture through art, music, fashion, skateboarding, photography and community.

The exhibition will be held, once again, at the Angel and Muse Gallery at 25 Sumbo Jibowu street off Ribadu Road off Awolowo Road in Ikoyi.

It will open on Saturday 5 September 2026 and will run until 11 September 2026
This second edition which focuses on celebrating, nurturing and exploring artistic practices rooted in youth and street culture will feature works from DENCITY and SUPERGLIDER HOUSE.

Exhibiting artists include Ajilore Kehinde – their work is deeply influenced by Nigerian street culture and works of other artists like Slawn, Peters Ejiro, etc, Chuka Onwordi – graphic designer who embodies themes of death, melancholy and beauty in his works, ZIDYEP – Abuja based creative whose works move between digital and physical spaces through art, graphic design and air brushing , Franklyn Okoye – graphic designer and artist whose works explore themes of identity and hyper-reality, Awele Onwordi – founder & curator of WAKE UP and multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans character art, creative logo design, album covers and more , Oluchi Kogolo – digital illustrator whose work explores street culture, personality and storytelling through a raw and playful visual style and Kozetuo Apeji – multidisciplinary artists who work explores experimental approaches to problem solving through both digital and traditional art forms.

Commenting on the exhibition in her curatorial statement, Awele noted that “despite economic instability, limited opportunities and socio-political challenges, Nigerian youth continue to shape culture through music, fashion, art, skateboarding, raves, photography and community.”

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Continuing and harping on the raison d’etre of the exhibition she said, “Young, Wild and Free exists to celebrate Nigerian youth while also creating a platform that supports and amplifies them.”