The Cross River State Government and the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) have renewed their partnership to reposition the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort and attract new investment opportunities into the state.
Governor Bassey Otu disclosed that the collaboration is aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Tinapa while strengthening Cross River’s position as a destination for tourism, manufacturing, trade, and export-driven businesses.
The governor stated this during a meeting with a NEPZA delegation led by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, at the Governor’s Office in Calabar.
According to Otu, the renewed engagement with NEPZA represents a new phase in efforts to restore Tinapa’s relevance after years of setbacks. He said the state government is working to address issues affecting investment, including infrastructure challenges, security concerns, and protection of key economic assets.
The governor said Tinapa is gradually returning to activity, revealing that an American company is expected to commence operations at the facility as part of efforts to bring back investors and revive the commercial dream behind the project.
He described the renewed investor interest as evidence that confidence is returning to Cross River’s economy, adding that partnerships with agencies such as NEPZA would help create jobs, expand business opportunities, and boost revenue generation.
Speaking during the visit, the NEPZA boss praised Cross River’s economic potential, highlighting the state’s tourism assets, coastal location, agricultural opportunities, and capacity for export-oriented industries.
Ogunyemi said NEPZA is exploring new models for developing export processing zones and special economic zones, using global examples such as Singapore as a reference point for industrial growth.
He added that Cross River’s advantages, including attractions like Obudu Mountain Resort and its coastal environment, could position the state as a major investment hub if properly developed.
Tinapa, which was originally designed as a major business and leisure destination, has struggled over the years despite its ambitious vision. Recent moves by the state government and NEPZA are focused on restoring the facility as an economic centre for trade, tourism, and industry.
The partnership is expected to determine whether Tinapa can finally achieve the economic promise that made it one of Cross River’s biggest development projects.
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