Culture

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

Published

2 years 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

Ofala festival: Obi of Onitsha marks 25 Years on throne

Published

6 hours ago

October 23, 2026

Peculiar Adirika

Ofala Festival 2026 celebrated Onitsha’s royal heritage as Obi Nnaemeka Achebe marked 25 years on the throne and addressed Nigeria’s economic challenges.

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Culture

Crowds Gather for Rare Sunrise at Egypt’s Abu Simbel Temple

Published

7 hours ago

October 23, 2026

David Ogunjobi

Hundreds of tourists gathered at Egypt’s Abu Simbel temple to witness the twice-yearly sunrise ceremony illuminating Pharaoh Ramses II’s statue

Hundreds of tourists gathered at Egypt’s Abu Simbel temple on Thursday to witness a spectacular sunrise phenomenon in which sunlight illuminated the face of the statue of Pharaoh Ramses II, an event that occurs only twice a year.

Also read: 16 Famous Cultural Festivals That Define India

The ancient astronomical ceremony drew visitors from different parts of the world to the archaeological site in southern Egypt on October 22, one of two dates associated with the phenomenon.

The second occurrence takes place on February 22, when the rising sun illuminates the temple’s interior.

Egyptian tour guide Yasser Fouad described the occasion as extraordinary, saying some visitors had stayed overnight to secure the opportunity to witness the event.

“Today is an extraordinary day, everyone is keen, there are people who stayed over the night, foreigners who actually spent the night in Abu Simbel to see this phenomenon,” Fouad said.

The Great Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel dates back to the 13th century BC and is among Egypt’s most prominent archaeological attractions.

Built during the reign of Ramses II, one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs, the temple is renowned for its monumental statues and sophisticated architectural design.

The twice-yearly sunrise phenomenon is a major attraction, drawing visitors eager to witness the interaction between sunlight and the temple’s ancient structure.

The dates have traditionally been associated with significant moments in Ramses II’s life.

October 22 is commonly linked to his birthday, while February 22 is associated with his accession to the throne.

However, the precise historical reasons behind the dates remain debated.

Some archaeologists have proposed alternative explanations, including that they may have marked the pharaoh’s coronation and birthday.

Abu Simbel underwent a major international rescue operation in the 1960s, when archaeologists and engineers relocated the temples to protect them from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

The monumental structures were cut into large blocks and reassembled at a higher location, preserving the site for future generations.

The relocation was one of the most significant archaeological preservation projects of the 20th century.

Despite the move, the temple continues to attract visitors for its ancient Egyptian art, monumental architecture and remarkable alignment with the rising sun.

Also read: 16 Famous Cultural Festivals That Define India

The annual gatherings highlight the enduring appeal of Egypt’s archaeological heritage and the continuing fascination with the astronomical knowledge and engineering achievements of its ancient civilisation.