The Cross River State Government has announced that the Obudu International Cargo Airport is expected to begin flight operations in 2027, marking a major milestone in the state’s plans to boost trade, agriculture and tourism.
Governor Bassey Otu disclosed this during the visit of the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, to Cross River State. The minister was in the state for the inauguration of Nigeria’s first livestock control post and quarantine facility in Ikom.
Represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, the governor said construction of the cargo airport had reached about 85 per cent completion.
He explained that once operational, the airport would enhance livestock exports, attract investment and improve access to regional and international markets.
Otu also revealed that the state government is upgrading the Obudu Ranch Resort into a five-star tourism destination while engaging private investors to expand livestock production and tourism-related businesses.
According to him, Cross River’s strategic location along the Gulf of Guinea provides a competitive advantage for regional commerce, while the state’s airline, Cally Air, is expected to support business travel and tourism.
Speaking during the event, Idi Maiha said the newly inaugurated livestock control post and quarantine facility would play a key role in preventing the entry of diseased animals into Nigeria through international border routes.
The minister explained that the Federal Government plans to establish 12 livestock control and quarantine facilities across the country to strengthen border monitoring, improve animal health and protect Nigeria’s livestock industry.
Maiha said Cross River has the potential to become a major player in the South-South red meat market through the development of modern abattoirs, a move he said could generate about 10,000 jobs across livestock production, processing and transportation.
He added that the ministry intends to import 60 million hatchable eggs, license operators and promote fodder cultivation as part of efforts to increase livestock productivity and attract private investment.
The minister further disclosed that Obudu is being positioned as a hub for integrated livestock production, with facilities planned for cattle, goats, sheep, pigs and dairy farming through partnerships involving universities and private sector investors.
The inauguration of the livestock control post forms part of broader efforts to modernise Nigeria’s livestock sector, improve food security and expand agricultural exports.
