By Seyi Odewale
Cross River State took a significant leap toward revitalising its tourism and investment profile as Governor Bassey Otu took delivery of two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft.
The regional jets, each with a capacity of 100 passengers, are expected to end years of unreliable air travel to Calabar and position the state as a major player in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
The landmark reception took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with Governor Otu flanked by his wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu; former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke; and other dignitaries. Describing the acquisition as “a long-overdue leap into the future,” the governor said the new aircraft would drive “seamless connectivity and economic transformation” in the state.
The Ministry of Aviation will officially commission the aircraft on August 12, 2025. With their arrival, Cross River now owns four aircraft—two Boeing 747s acquired under former Governor Ben Ayade and the two new Bombardier jets.
While Aero Contractors operates the Boeing, the CRJ1000s will be run by ValueJet Airlines until the state secures an Air Operator’s Certificate to run an independent airline.
Governor Otu emphasised that dependable air transportation is the backbone of the state’s tourism-driven economic blueprint, noting that accessibility will no longer hinder flagship attractions like Carnival Calabar, Obudu Ranch Resort, and the state’s ecotourism gems.
“These aircraft are more than machines—they are catalysts of commerce, bridges of culture, and vessels of hope,” he declared.
He added that the move will also strengthen investor confidence. “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,” Otu said.
Former Minister Edem Duke hailed the acquisition as a “game-changing intervention,” predicting it would dismantle the perception of Calabar as a hard-to-reach destination while unlocking opportunities in hospitality, conferencing, agriculture, and exports.
As the planes touched down, the symbolism was unmistakable: Cross River, once held back by distance, is now charting a bold new flight path—both literally and economically.
