Tagged OMR 7.0 L'Aventure Edition with the theme "Think Cross River," the four-day event attracted more than 50 participants from government institutions, private companies, the military, business circles and other professional groups. Organisers said the initiative was designed not only to encourage healthy living but also to spotlight Cross River State's tourism potential through experiential travel.
The journey from Calabar to the Obudu Mountain Resort doubled as a tourism campaign, with participants documenting scenic landscapes, lush forests and biodiversity while also observing ongoing improvements along the state's road corridor, which organisers said have made travel to the resort easier and faster.
Activities commenced with a welcome bonfire and barbecue night before participants embarked on the event's biggest attraction—an 11-kilometre mountain hike through the famous 22 sharp bends leading to the Obudu hills. The demanding trek tested participants' endurance, mental strength and physical fitness, with the fastest group completing the challenge in just over two hours.
The fitness challenge was officially flagged off by Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, who represented Governor Bassey Otu. The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that combine wellness, youth engagement and tourism development.
Speaking during the event, Chairman of the Healthy Billionaires Fitness Club, William Archibong Jnr., said participation continues to grow every year, reflecting increasing interest in fitness tourism across Nigeria. He praised the Cross River State Government for creating an environment that encourages tourism-focused initiatives and acknowledged partners who supported the programme under the "Think Cross River" campaign.
Vice Chairman of the club, Great Ogban, described the annual gathering as more than a fitness exercise, saying it serves as a platform to showcase the gradual revitalisation of the Obudu Mountain Resort and strengthen its image as an international destination for eco-tourism and wellness.
Beyond the hike, participants enjoyed a packed itinerary that included a post-hike brunch, recreational activities, a Father's Day celebration tagged "Brunch in the Clouds," poolside relaxation, entertainment and networking sessions at the resort.
The event concluded with a farewell breakfast before participants departed for Calabar, with organisers describing the seventh edition as one of the most successful since the initiative began. The Healthy Billionaires Fitness Club reiterated its commitment to using fitness and adventure tourism as tools for promoting Cross River State to visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
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