Cross River acquires two aircraft to boost tourism, ease travel

 

The Governor of Cross Rivers state, Bassey Otu, has taken delivery of two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft to tackle flight delays and cancellations.

The governor said the regional aircraft, each capable of carrying up to 100 passengers, are part of the administration’s broader efforts to enhance economic mobility and solidify the state’s position as a leading tourism and investment destination in Nigeria.

The governor said this in a statement he signed and made available to journalists on Friday.

According to the statement, the official reception ceremony was held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where the Governor, his wife, and other prominent personalities joined him in receiving the aircraft.

At the reception, Otu described the acquisition as “a long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation for our dear state.”

The governor added that the aircraft are scheduled to be officially commissioned by the Ministry of Aviation on August 12, 2025.

The governor added that the aircraft will help eliminate persistent challenges faced by travellers to and from Calabar, including frequent flight delays and cancellations.

“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.”

Otu stressed that the development goes beyond transportation, stating “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.”

The Commissioner for Aviation, Capt Imah Utum, noted that the latest addition brings the state’s fleet to four aircraft.

“Two Boeing 747s previously acquired under former Governor Ben Ayade are currently operated by Aero Contractors.

“The newly acquired Bombardier CRJ1000 jets, however, will be operated by Valuejet Airlines while the state works toward securing its own Air Operator Certificate to launch an independent airline.”

He added that the initiative is expected to boost tourism, drive investor confidence, and open Cross River to more business opportunities.

“No economy thrives in isolation. Investors want assurance of smooth logistics. These aircraft will ensure Cross River is no longer at the periphery of economic conversations”, he added.

While commending the governor’s foresight, Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Edem Duke, lauded the acquisition, describing it as a “game-changing intervention.

“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”, he concluded.




Punch.

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