Cross River tourism gains new momentum as Governor Bassey Otu promotes golf as a tool for driving investment, hospitality, and youth engagement

Cross River tourism is receiving renewed momentum as Governor Bassey Otu revealed that his administration is using golf to attract investors and boost the state’s economic and cultural profile.

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Speaking during the Governor’s Golf and Business Tournament in Calabar on Sunday, Otu said the initiative aligns with his vision to position Cross River as Africa’s foremost tourism and investment hub through sports, culture, and hospitality.

The event, which drew 80 amateur golfers from ten Nigerian states, saw Fidel Udie emerge as the overall winner, with Gladness Dan topping the ladies’ category, Ray Ovat winning division one, and Mike Odere, the state’s Commissioner for Finance, taking the division two prize.

Governor Otu described sports as a powerful economic catalyst and pledged continued government support for youth participation and private partnerships in developing sports and tourism infrastructure.

“We are promoting golf as a sport that attracts global attention. Calabar is now a top tourist destination, and we expect an influx of visitors in the coming months,” he said.

“This tournament represents a new era for sports tourism in Cross River. This golf course is a symbol of our hospitality, and we will keep using it to promote investment, culture, and youth engagement.”

Supporting the governor’s vision, Olusegun Alebiosu, Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Group, reaffirmed the bank’s long-term commitment to golf and business development in Nigeria.

“This is a beautiful and well-maintained course. Golf is life, golf is health, and golf is business. We see this as a platform for sustainable partnerships and economic growth,” Alebiosu stated.

He added that First Bank has supported sports for over a century, including golf, polo, and basketball, because of their blend of leisure, fitness, and business networking potential.

Also speaking, Mike Odere, who doubles as the tournament’s organising committee member, said the event was conceived as a bridge between business, leisure, and tourism, showcasing Calabar’s clean image and reinforcing the governor’s commitment to sustainable development.

“This tournament connects investors directly with government officials. It provides a relaxed environment for meaningful discussions, partnerships, and exploring business opportunities,” he said.

Vice Captain of the Calabar Golf Club, Aneke Okon, described the tournament as a major tourism and business networking platform, highlighting the club’s historic 18-hole course as one of Nigeria’s finest.

“When golfers visit, they stay in hotels, enjoy local cuisine, and discover business opportunities. It is a perfect blend of sport, tourism, and enterprise,” Okon said.

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With this initiative, Cross River tourism is not just celebrating sport but leveraging it as a strategic investment driver that unites recreation, business, and economic growth under one ambitious vision.