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.

The coronation of Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo will take place over two weeks, with pre-coronation, coronation, and post-coronation events

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) has announced the official schedule for the long-awaited coronation of Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.

The celebrations will span two weeks, beginning on Monday, March 31, and concluding on Saturday, April 12, offering a rich blend of cultural, traditional, and spiritual events.

The festivities will be divided into three main phases: pre-coronation, coronation, and post-coronation. Each phase will showcase Oyo’s vibrant culture and community spirit, allowing both locals and visitors to experience the grandeur of the historic event.

**Pre-Coronation Events: March 31 to April 4**

The pre-coronation phase will begin with a grand cultural carnival parade on March 31 at 7:30 a.m., followed by the official opening ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at the Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium, Ode Aremo.

The event will be graced by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, and LOC Chairman, Kunle Ogunmola.

Throughout the pre-coronation week, there will be several key events, including:

– **Oyo Cultural Heritage Day**
– **A historic tree-planting ceremony**
– **Public lecture and coronation quiz competition**
– **Football match**

This vibrant series of events is designed to bring together the people of Oyo, celebrate their heritage, and prepare for the official coronation of the new monarch.

**The Coronation Ceremony: April 5**

The grand coronation will take place on Saturday, April 5, at Olivet Baptist Heights (OBHSO), with festivities unfolding across various locations in the state.

The OBHSO field will host the Governor and other dignitaries, while VIP guests will be accommodated at Olivet Baptist Academy for parking, and the general public can access Ladigbolu Grammar School.

Additional venues for the ceremony include A.U.D. Primary School (Alagbon/Owode), Methodist Primary School (Apaara), L.A. Town School (Saabo, Oyo), N.A. Town School (Isale Oyo), Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium (Ode Aremo), Old Oyo National Park, and ADS Primary School.

**Post-Coronation Activities: April 6 to April 12**

Following the coronation, the post-coronation period will include a series of inter-faith prayers, traditional rituals, and community services. Notable events include:

– **Christian Thanksgiving Service** at St Michael’s Anglican Cathedral on Sunday, April 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
– **Free eye tests and distribution of eyeglasses** on Monday, April 7.
– **Isese/Orisa worshippers’ Isure/Idupe ceremony** on Wednesday, April 9, at the Esu Akesan shrine, Akesan, Oyo.
– **Muslim special Jumat prayer** on Friday, April 11, at the Central Mosque, Oja, at 1:30 p.m.
– **Final Thanksgiving service** by the Isese/Orisa worshippers on Saturday, April 12, at Adinua, Ole Compound, Obe Apo, Oyo.

The LOC encourages residents and well-wishers to participate in these historic events, which mark the official installation of Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.

This celebration will not only honour the new monarch but also offer a momentous occasion for all to engage with the rich cultural traditions of Oyo.

A new partnership between a leading Lagos nightlife tourism provider and Silverbird Group aims to enhance the city’s tourism experience

In a strategic move to bolster Lagos’ status as a premier tourism destination, a renowned nightlife provider has teamed up with the Silverbird Group, one of the most prominent entertainment companies in Nigeria.

This collaboration is set to revolutionize the city’s nightlife tourism, offering both local and international visitors an enhanced and unforgettable experience.

The partnership, announced recently, aims to leverage the strengths of both entities—Silverbird’s established media, entertainment, and cinema expertise and the nightlife provider’s deep understanding of Lagos’ vibrant and diverse entertainment scene.

The collaboration is expected to foster a synergy that benefits both sectors of the economy: tourism and entertainment. By combining their resources and expertise, the two companies plan to expand their reach, offering a more immersive and attractive experience for tourists who wish to explore Lagos’ lively nightlife.

Silverbird Group, with its extensive network of cinemas, event venues, and media platforms, will provide the nightlife tourism provider with a broader audience and more marketing visibility, allowing for greater awareness of Lagos’ nightlife offerings.

In turn, the nightlife provider will offer unique, tailor-made experiences that highlight the city’s vibrant club scenes, exclusive events, and cultural celebrations.

Lagos, known for its dynamic energy, is one of the most visited cities in West Africa. This partnership comes at a time when the Nigerian government is working to enhance the nation’s tourism sector and increase its appeal as a global tourist destination.

Both parties are committed to positioning Lagos as a top tourism hub in Africa by promoting a diverse range of experiences, from nightlife and entertainment to culture and history.

The partnership between the nightlife tourism provider and Silverbird Group signifies a new chapter for both businesses, promising to create new job opportunities, attract foreign investments, and expand Lagos’ influence on the global entertainment and tourism scene.

As the collaboration unfolds, it is expected to draw more international tourists to Lagos, contributing significantly to the city’s economy and solidifying its place as a must-visit destination in Africa.