By Edem Ekpo
In a move to strengthen Cross River State’s sub-national economy and position it as an aviation hub serving the Gulf of Guinea and neighbouring Guinea Bissau, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima on Tuesday unveiled two newly acquired CRJ-1000 aircraft.
The ceremony, held at Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, featured the white-coloured jets—operated by Value Jet and branded “Cally Air, Proudly Cross River”—on full display throughout the event. One aircraft bore the inscription “5N-CRA Margaret Ekpo”, while the other was marked “5N-CRB Mma Adiagha.”
Commissioning the aircraft, Shettima said, “On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I hereby commission these aircraft for service to God and humanity.”
The Vice President also inaugurated the state’s remodeled and digitalized library complex, which houses a modern ICT hub. Expressing optimism about its impact, Shettima said, “This facility should be maximized by our youth in this digital age of productive technology, to the glory of God and in service to humanity.”
Governor Prince Bassey Otu described the development as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which his administration has embraced to build a strong and robust state economy that contributes to national food and energy security while fostering independence.
“Cross River is proud of our President for charting a new course for this country through sustainable reforms that will bring unprecedented progress,” Otu said.
Highlighting the importance of aviation in the state’s tourism strategy, Otu noted that the state already had two aircraft and is adding another two, with plans to expand the fleet to seven.
“What we are building here is not just for Nigeria alone. This aviation hub will extend to Guinea Bissau and serve the Gulf of Guinea,” the governor added.
On the ICT hub, Otu said it aligns with the creation of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in the state, aimed at powering value chains and strengthening both technical and administrative systems.
He assured that the new projects would be put to good use and significantly transform the state’s economy. “We have already reduced the cost of food items. Transportation remains a challenge, but with ongoing infrastructure projects, prices will drop further,” Otu said.
The Vice President also commissioned the remodeled State Library Complex, which now operates with a 128kva solar power system.