Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has officially taken delivery of two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft, a move aimed at tackling persistent flight delays and cancellations while boosting the state’s tourism and investment appeal.
In a statement personally signed by him and released on Friday, Otu said the aircraft, each with a capacity of 100 passengers, are part of his administration’s plan to enhance economic mobility and position Cross River as a premier destination for tourism and investors.
At a reception ceremony held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, attended by the governor, his wife, and other dignitaries, Otu described the acquisition as “a long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation for our dear state.”
The governor announced that the aircraft will be officially commissioned by the Ministry of Aviation on August 12, 2025.
“For too long, our people and visitors alike have endured the hardship of air travel disruptions. Today marks the beginning of the end of that era,” Otu said, noting that the new planes will help eliminate the long-standing travel challenges to and from Calabar.
He emphasised that the initiative is more than just about improving transportation.
“These aircraft are more than machines, they are catalysts of commerce, bridges of culture, and vessels of hope. With Carnival Calabar, Obudu Ranch Resort, and our ecotourism assets beckoning the world, accessibility must never be a hindrance again.”
The state’s Commissioner for Aviation, Capt. Imah Utum explained that the addition of the two jets brings the state’s fleet to four aircraft.
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“Two Boeing 747s previously acquired under former Governor Ben Ayade are currently operated by Aero Contractors.
The newly acquired Bombardier CRJ1000 jets, however, will be operated by Valuejet Airlines while the state works toward securing its own Air Operator Certificate to launch an independent airline,” Utum said.
He added that the acquisition is expected to significantly boost tourism, strengthen investor confidence, and open up new business opportunities.
“No economy thrives in isolation, Investors want assurance of smooth logistics,” he said.
These aircraft will ensure Cross River is no longer at the periphery of economic conversations,” he said.
Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Edem Duke, praised the governor’s vision, describing the move as a “game-changing intervention.”
He said, “This singular move will dramatically alter the perception of Calabar as a difficult destination, thereby opening up new opportunities in hospitality, conferences, agriculture, and export.”