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CALABAR – Cross River State, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant tourism industry, is gearing up for an exciting addition to its tourism calendar. In a move to further boost the local tourism sector, Chief Robert Abubakar Ewa, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, has joined forces with the Board of Trustees of the Bakassi Fish Festival to integrate the fishing fiesta into the state’s tourism lineup.
This significant development was officially confirmed during a meeting on September 12, 2023, where Chief Ewa addressed the members of the festival’s Board of Trustees during their visit to his office.
Chief Ewa praised the Board of Trustees for their visionary approach in promoting Bakassi’s cultural heritage. He highlighted Bakassi’s global reputation as a fishing hub, underscoring the potential of such events to capture international attention. Cross River State’s geographical proximity to Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon, along with its diverse ethnic communities, adds to the global appeal of these initiatives.
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Emphasizing the need for a welcoming atmosphere, Chief Ewa urged the Board of Trustees to create a community conducive to tourism, stressing that the success of tourism depends on the hospitality of the environment.
During the meeting, Honourable Chief Ani Esin, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Bakassi Fish Festival, reiterated their commitment to collaborating with Cross River State. They aim to harness the region’s natural resources to promote tourism and provide a platform for sharing innovative tourism business ideas.
Additionally, Frank Edima, the Director General of the Bakassi Fish Festival, shared their plans to showcase Bakassi through a diverse range of events, including boat racing and beauty pageants. She emphasized how these events could open up international opportunities for Cross River State while further solidifying peace and unity within the state.
The high point of the meeting was the presentation of the inaugural magazine for the Bakassi Fish Festival to the Honourable Commissioner, symbolizing a new chapter in the cultural and tourism landscape of Cross River State.