Gov. Otu Leverages Golf, Tourism To Attract Fresh Investments

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By Christian Njoku

Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has disclosed that his administration is using golf to drive tourism and attract new investments into the state’s growing economy.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Otu stated this on Sunday during the Governor’s Golf and Business Tournament in Calabar.

He said the initiative aligned with his vision to position Cross River as Africa’s leading tourism and investment hub through sports, culture, and hospitality.

NAN reports that the tournament attracted 80 amateur golfers from 10 states in Nigeria which saw the emergence of Fidel Udie as the overall winner.

While Gladness Dan won the ladies category, Ray Ovat won the division one, and Mike Odere, the state’s Commissioner for Finance, emerged as the winner of division two category.

The governor described sports as a major business platform, adding that the state would continue encouraging youth participation and private partnerships to expand tourism and sports development.

“We are promoting golf as a sport that attracts global attention; Calabar is now a top tourist destination; and we expect an influx of visitors in coming months.

“This tournament represents a new era for sports tourism in Cross River; this golf course is a symbol of our hospitality; we will keep using it to promote investment, culture, and youth engagement,” he said.

Similarly, Olusegun Alebiosu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of First Bank Group, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting golf, tourism, and business development across Nigeria.

Alebiosu noted that the bank was a proud and key partner of the tournament in Calabar and would continue sponsoring and supporting it going forward.

“This is a beautiful and well-maintained course; golf is life, golf is health, and golf is business; we see this as a platform for sustainable partnerships and economic growth,” he said.

He added that First Bank had championed sports for over a century, including golf, polo, and basketball, adding that golf perfectly blends leisure, fitness, and business networking.

On his part, Odere, Cross River’s Commissioner for Finance, a key member of the organising committee, said the event was designed to merge business, leisure, and tourism into one dynamic platform.

Odere stated that the competition also showcased Calabar’s clean and green image while reinforcing the governor’s commitment to attracting sustainable investments.

“This tournament connects investors directly with government officials; it is a space for meaningful discussions, partnerships, and exploring business opportunities in a relaxed environment,” he explained.

Aneke Okon, Vice Captain of Calabar Golf Club, described the tournament as a major tourism and business networking opportunity, highlighting Calabar’s historic 18-hole course as one of Nigeria’s top three.

According to him, golfers are businessmen and captains of industry that see opportunities and attract investments in any city they visit.

“When golfers visit, they stay in your hotels, enjoy your food, and discover new business prospects; it is a perfect blend of sport, tourism, and enterprise.” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ehigimetor Igbaugba/Jane-Frances Oraka

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Gov. Otu leverages golf, tourism to attract fresh investments