Life has returned to Cross River’s prestigious Marina Resort, which was shut down months ago following a boat mishap that claimed the lives of three students.

Reopening the resort in the late hours of Sunday, Governor Bassey Otu said the relaxation and tourist centre was back, and they would continue to develop it to international standards.

The resort, which houses the Slavery Museum and a moribund cinema hall, was shut down on June 24.

This followed a boat accident that claimed the lives of three medical students from Ahmadu Bello University, Niger Delta University and the University of Uyo, who visited Calabar for their annual health week hosted by the University of Calabar.

Represented by Elvert Ayambem, the Cross River House of Assembly speaker, Mr Otu said apart from carrying out some major renovations in the resort, they had also beefed up security with a gunboat ready, 24 hours.

“What we have done here is very impressive. As you can see, fun seekers are already trooping in, and I am specially happy with the presence of security from the navy and police. To residents of Cross River, a lot has been sunk into this resort. Please add value and not destroy; learn to respect government policies which are for the good of everyone,” he said.

Ojoi Ekpenyong, the managing director of Cross River Tourism Bureau, said he was elated with the resort’s rebranding with 24-hour electricity, a clean environment and ready service providers.

He called on people within and outside the state to visit the resort and enjoy all it offers in a serene and secure environment.

A fun seeker, Fidelia Esu, who came with her family, stated, “In those days, this resort was always lively. People were providing various services and making their money. It was an exciting time. I still believe we can boost tourism more in Cross River by going back to our rural communities and taking up tourism activities from there.

“We have a lot in our local communities that can attract tourists to the state. This will go a long way in bringing development into our rural communities.” 

(NAN)