Tinapa Returns: Governor Otu Reclaims Cross River's Pride
After nearly two decades of dormancy, Cross River State's iconic Tinapa Free Zone and Resort is officially back in Nigerian hands. Governor Bassey Edet Otu, the man locals call "Mr. Turn Around," has delivered on his promise to reclaim this symbol of African excellence from foreign control.
On November 7th, 2025, Governor Otu presided over the formal signing ceremony that returned Tinapa to Cross River State ownership. This wasn't just a business transaction, it was a declaration of African sovereignty and economic independence.
From African Dream to Continental Symbol
When former Governor Donald Duke launched Tinapa in 2007, it represented everything Africa could achieve. Rising from the banks of the Calabar River, this integrated business and leisure resort became Africa's premier destination for commerce, culture, and innovation.
"Tinapa emerged, radiant, ambitious, visionary, and became the spark that changed the narrative of our state forever," Governor Otu recalled, his voice carrying the weight of collective memory and renewed hope.
The resort transformed Cross River from a quiet corner of Nigeria into a global symbol of African creativity and forward-thinking. It proved that African states don't need Western validation to create world-class facilities.
The Dark Years of Neglect
But like many African success stories, Tinapa fell victim to external pressures and internal challenges. Debt burdens, bureaucratic obstacles, and policy shifts turned this beacon of hope into a monument of unfulfilled potential.
For years, Tinapa stood as a haunting reminder of what happens when African dreams are left to wither. But Governor Otu refused to accept this narrative of defeat.
African Leadership, African Solutions
"We are breathing new life into Tinapa, not as a relic of abandoned ambition, but as a living symbol of Cross River's resilience," Governor Otu declared with the confidence that defines true African leadership.
His People First agenda prioritizes African ownership and control of strategic assets. This isn't just about economic recovery, it's about African dignity and self-determination.
Finance Commissioner Dr. Michael Odere praised the governor's "visionary leadership, deft negotiation, and fiscal discipline" that made this victory possible. These are the qualities Africa needs more of in its leaders.
The Future is African
Governor Otu announced ongoing partnerships with credible investors who share his vision of transforming Tinapa into a modern hub for trade, technology, and creative enterprise. The focus remains on transparency, accountability, and most importantly, youth employment.
"This moment is a collective victory for our past leaders whose dreams gave it birth, for the government that fought to reclaim it, and for the future generations who will inherit its promise," the governor emphasized.
This isn't just about one resort or one state. Tinapa's resurrection sends a powerful message across Africa: when we believe in ourselves and fight for our interests, we can reclaim our destiny from any force that seeks to diminish us.
A New Dawn for African Pride
As the sun sets over Calabar's skyline, Tinapa breathes again, not just as a business venture but as proof that African leadership can deliver results. Governor Otu has shown that with courage, vision, and unwavering commitment to African interests, no dream is too big to resurrect.
"Let the world know that Cross River has reclaimed her pride, and from this soil, we shall build the future we have always dreamed of," Governor Otu declared, his words echoing the spirit of a continent ready to take its rightful place in the global economy.
Tinapa's return is more than an economic victory. It's a testament to what happens when African leaders put African interests first, refuse to bow to external pressure, and believe in the power of their people to create excellence.