Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has promised to revive the Calabar Port and revive Cross River’s tourism sector if elected president.

Mr Obi made the pledge on Wednesday during a town hall meeting in Calabar, where he listened to concerns raised by party members, supporters and residents about the state’s development challenges.

He said his administration would make the Calabar Port functional, alongside other ports in the Niger Delta, to enhance economic activities and generate employment.

The former Anambra governor also lamented the decline of Cross River State’s tourism industry, recalling that Calabar, Obudu and other destinations once drew tourists from across Nigeria and abroad.

He blamed the decline on poor governance and inadequate attention, pledged to improve the state’s position as a leading tourism destination.

“I am committed to restoring Cross River state to its pride of place, starting with my personal commitment, when elected president, to spending my holidays at its tourism destinations,” he said.

Mr Obi also pledged to prioritise national unity, security, education and healthcare, while pursuing policies to lift Nigerians out of poverty.

The meeting featured an interactive session during which participants expressed concerns about the economy, security, tourism, the Calabar Port and citizens’ welfare.

Mr Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, alongside Cross River State party candidates and supporters, paid a courtesy visit to the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V.

Mr Obi said the traditional ruler welcomed the delegation, offered words of wisdom and prayed for the group.

He also urged party members to prepare to protect their votes on election day, citing alleged intimidation by the government.