By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
Abuja
Cross Rivers State Governor Edet Otu has hailed Blake Entertainment Center in Calabar for developing tourism, contributing to the economy and employment in the state. Otu also commented the Managing Director and CEO of the Cross Rivers State Tourism Bureau for his efforts in bringing the prestigious Blake Resort to Calabar.
According to a press release from the Director of Special Duties, Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Odinaka Anumba Monday, made a available to journalists in Abuja Monday, the governor recently visited the construction site of the Blake Entertainment Centre, located at the Mari Thena Resort, Calabar. The Governor expressed his enthusiasm about the development, recalling fond memories of celebrating with friends at the Blake Resort in Abuja many years ago.
While emphasizing the positive impact the resort is having on the local economy, particularly through the employment opportunities for the youth in the area, the governor had this to say: “The arrival of Blake Resort in Calabar is a significant milestone for us. I am very pleased to see the progress and I promise to provide all necessary supports to ensure its successful completion. The economic benefits and the boost in tourism this project brings are invaluable to our state.
Responding, the MD/CEO of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau (CRSTB), Prince Ekpeyong Ojoi expressed gratitude for the governor’s continuos support and the privilege of establishing Blake Resort in Calabar, just as the governor praised the Managing Director and CEO of the CRSTB for their efforts in bringing the prestigious Blake Resort to Calabar. “We are committed to collaborating closely with the Blake team to position Cross River State as the prime destination in the West African sub-region,” the MD/CEO stated.
The MD/CEO of the Blake Resort, Uzochukwu Akunedozi, added thus: “The world-class entertainment centre will be ready by November, targeting to reap from the bumper harvests of the Calabar Carnival in December.”
The visit however follows the signing of an agreement between Cross River State and Blake Excellency Resort Limited in January this year, marking the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at transforming Calabar into a premier tourist destination. According to the press release, the Blake Resort Calabar is a luxurious development set to enhance the tourism landscape of Cross River State. Known for its world-class amenities and exceptional service, Blake Resort, the release went on, is poised to attract both local and international visitors, contributing to the state’s economic growth and cultural exchange.
