Cross River State Tourism Bureau Seeks Private Sector Collaboration

The Cross River State Tourism Bureau has expressed commitment to revitalise the industry through Private sector collaboration utilising the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model for the implementation of short-term plans.

The Managing Director of the Bureau, Mr. Ojoi Ekpenyong said this during a Press conference in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, southern Nigeria.

Premier destination

Ekpenyong said that the short-term plan has been drawn to “reignite the tourism sector, foster private sector engagement, and reaffirm the commitment to make Cross River State a premier tourist destination.”

The Managing Director pledged to engage tour operators and travel agencies as well as provide incentives for agents, who attract tourists, visitors, and guests to the State either for leisure or business tourism.

He said; “This comprehensive plan underscores our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices, ultimately positioning Cross River State as a premier destination for tourists from around the world.

“I am dedicated to engaging the private sector and regaining their trust through a series of strategic initiatives designed to yield quick and tangible results.”

“We will initiate dialogues with key private sector stakeholders, including hoteliers, tour operators, and restaurant owners, to understand their concerns and ideas,” he said.

The Managing Director further said, “A renewed focus on promoting and enhancing existing tourism attractions across the state will be a central component of the plan while investment promotion forums and conferences will be organised to attract private sector investment in tourism infrastructure and services.”

Licensing establishments

He said that the Bureau would begin the regulation, licensing, and grading of all tourism establishments in the state to ensure tourism facilities are available to visitors, who will attend this year’s 2023 Calabar Festival and carnivals.

Ekpenyong said that; “the bureau was setting up “new and revamped tourism information centers at strategic location to provide comprehensive information about the state’s attractions, accommodations, and activities.”

He also disclosed that to rejig the sector, the Bureau would appoint local influencers and celebrities as tourism ambassadors to promote Cross River State.

In other to guarantee sustainable tourism practices, he said that “the Bureau in partnership with the private sector would provide training programmes centred on quality service.”

He expressed appreciation to Governor Bassey Otu for giving him the privilege to serve and contribute his quota to the tourism ecosystem of the state.

Mercy Chukwudiebere