The Cross River Government has expressed regrets over infrastructure vandalism at the Obudu Mountain Resort.
Chief Executive Officer and Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Obudu Mountain Resort, Sunday Michael made this known while conducting some officials of the state round the facility on Monday.
9News Nigeria reports that the Cross River government on March 5, revoked the 25-year concession agreement with CIBA Construction Company Limited for the management of Obudu Cattle Ranch, citing the company’s alleged failure to meet its contractual obligations.
The government, in a preliminary investigation, put the damage caused on the resourt at 6.8 billion Naira.
Michael said:”inspite of the setback, the government remains undeterred in its plan to restore the resort to its lost glory.
”The government has set up a team to oversee this restoration as part of the state’s efforts to boost tourism. ”The team’s primary objective is to ensure a seamless transition and begin renovation and upgrading the facility.
“This move is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the state”.
The termination was conveyed in a letter signed by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani.
According to the letter, CIBA breached key provisions of the agreement, particularly Sections 5.0, 6.0, and 14.0(b), leading to the cancellation of the contract.
Ani stated that the company failed to fulfil its core development commitments, including much-needed investments in the renovation of the resort’s hotel and other critical infrastructure.
The terminated concession was signed in 2017 under former Governor Ben Ayade.
Under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, CIBA was tasked with designing, financing, building, operating, and maintaining the ranch to drive its transformation.
However, the company’s failure to meet these obligations prompted the state government’s intervention.
Obudu Cattle Ranch, also known as Obudu Mountain Resort, was originally developed in 1951 by Scottish rancher M. McCaughley.
Nestled in the highlands of Cross River, the ranch became a serene getaway known for its cool climate and breathtaking landscapes.
The facility gained prominence during the tenure of former governor Donald Duke (1999–2007), who revitalised it into a top-tier tourism destination.
His administration upgraded the road network, built modern chalets, installed aerial tramways (cable cars), and enhanced overall infrastructure, making the resort one of Nigeria’s most sought-after vacation spots.
