CROSSJOF Applauds Governor Otu’s Efforts to Address Flight Delays in Cross River

By David Odama

The Cross River State Journalists Forum (CROSSJOF), Federal Capital Territory Chapter, has commended the administration of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Otu for the recent procurement of two Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft aimed at addressing persistent flight delays and cancellations in the state.

In a joint press statement signed by CROSSJOF Chairperson Francisca Ogar and Secretary Raphael Ekpang, the Forum described the move as a visionary step towards enhancing tourism, investment, and regional connectivity in Cross River State.

According to the statement, the addition of the CRJ1000 jets brings the state’s total fleet to four aircraft. The two Boeing 737s previously acquired by former Governor Ben Ayade are currently operated by Aero Contractors, while the newly delivered Bombardiers will be temporarily managed by ValueJet Airline, pending the state’s acquisition of an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

Speaking during the delivery of the aircraft, Governor Otu described the acquisition as “a long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation for our dear state.” He disclosed that the aircraft will be officially commissioned by the Ministry of Aviation on August 12, 2025.

Governor Otu emphasized that the aircraft will help resolve longstanding travel difficulties to and from Calabar, including frequent delays and cancellations. “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,” he said.

Highlighting the broader impact of the initiative, Otu noted, “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.”

Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Edem Duke, also praised the initiative, calling it a “game-changing intervention” that will significantly transform the image of Calabar and unlock opportunities in hospitality, agriculture, export, and conference tourism.

CROSSJOF further urged the state government to address challenges in land transportation by improving connectivity between the northern, central, and southern senatorial districts, particularly through the Obudu–Ikom and Bekwara–Ogoja–Ikom roads, to complement ongoing efforts in the aviation sector.