C.River govt pledges support as Blake Resort lands in Calabar
Sopuruchi Onwuka
The government of Cross River State has pledged to support the ongoing development and operations of the Blake Entertainment Centre at the Marina Resort, Calabar.
Governor Bassey Otu who visited the Marina Resort construction site of Blake Entertainment Centre described the project as major investment win for the Cross River State Tourism Bureau. He also pointed at the initial employment opportunities the investment has generated even at the construction stages.
This visit followed the signing of an agreement between Cross River State and Blake Excellency Resort Limited in January to mark the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at transforming Calabar into a premier tourist destination.
The Oracle Today reports that the Blake brand beats its chest for its world-class amenities and exceptional service. It promises to attract a steady stream of local and international visitors, contribute to the State’s economic growth, and promote cultural exchange.
The resort under development in Calabar is conceived to be a luxurious facility that would enhance the tourism landscape of Cross River State.
Governor Otu declared the readiness of his government to assist the project with all necessary operating approvals, and also provide the investors all other necessary support to ensure successful completion of the project.
“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 support to ensure its successful completion. The economic benefits and the boost in tourism this project brings are invaluable to our state,” the Governor said.
He expressed his enthusiasm at the establishment of branch of the facility in the state, and relived his experience of premium quality services he had enjoyed at the Blake Resort in Abuja.
In commending the Cross River State Tourism Bureau on bringing the investors home, Governor Otu emphasized the positive impact the resort is having on the local economy, particularly through the employment opportunities for local youths.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Cross River State Tourism Bureau, Prince Ekpenyong Ojoi, declared the commitment of the agency to drive strategies position the state as attractive investment destination for the tourism industry.
He also pledged commitment to sustain the prevailing collaboration with the investors to guarantee speedy establishment of the Blake brand in the state.
“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,” he stated, expressing gratitude for the governor’s continuous support and the privilege of establishing Blake Resort in Calabar.
The CEO of Blake Resort, zochukwu Akunedozi, said: “The world-class Entertainment Centre will be ready by November, targeting to reap from the bumper harvests of the Calabar Carnival in December.”
