Ukorebi Esien | June 12, 2026
The Cross River State tourism landscape is set for a major boost as a privately driven N5 billion Marina Resort Entertainment Project takes shape, with projections indicating the creation of over 400 direct jobs and thousands of indirect economic opportunities across the state.
The project, which is located along the waterfront axis of the Marina Resort is designed as a multi-purpose entertainment and hospitality hub that will combine leisure, tourism, and business activities in one integrated destination.
Speaking on the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the state tourism bureau, Prince Ekpenyong Ojoi, described the investment as a strong vote of confidence in Cross River State’s security, stability, and economic direction.
According to him, the Marina Resort is more than an entertainment facility, but a strategic economic catalyst expected to stimulate value chains in food supply, agriculture, transportation, hospitality, and creative industries.
“This investment is a clear statement that Cross River is safe for business and open to investors,” he said, noting that the facility will feature restaurants, grills, clubs, a bistro, a serenade entertainment section with live music, cinemas, swimming pools, and event spaces suitable for weddings, conferences, and family recreation.
He added that during the construction phase alone, over 100 workers were engaged daily, with many of them drawn from within the state, while emphasizing that the completed facility would sustain over 400 direct jobs.
The tourism official further explained that the resort will also serve as a training ground for young talents in music and hospitality, while creating demand across multiple supply chains including fisheries, agriculture, logistics, and local food production.
“A project like this does not stand alone. It pulls everything around it—farmers, fish suppliers, transporters, entertainers, and artisans all benefit,” he noted.
Also speaking on the development, The SA governor Bassey Otu on General Duties, Akiba Ekpenyong Esq, praised the project as evidence of growing investor confidence in the state, describing it as a landmark achievement in the administration’s efforts to reposition Cross River as a leading tourism destination.
He stated that the transformation of the waterfront area from a previously underutilized and neglected space into a modern entertainment hub reflects the government’s broader tourism renewal agenda.
According to him, “What we are seeing here is not just infrastructure, but a revival of economic hope. This facility shows that Cross River is ready to host the world.”
The adviser also highlighted that the project aligns with ongoing efforts to expand tourism infrastructure, improve hospitality standards, and attract both local and international visitors to the state.
With optimism running high, stakeholders believe the Marina Resort Entertainment Project will further position Cross River as a competitive tourism and leisure destination in Nigeria, while strengthening private sector participation in the state’s economic growth.
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