Otu Champions Sports Tourism as Calabar Hosts Prestigious Golf and Business Tournament

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making the state a premier destination for sports tourism in Africa. The Governor made this known as golfers, investors, and business leaders converged on Calabar for the Governor’s Golf and Business Tournament held at the Calabar Golf Club.

The high-profile event drew participants from major Nigerian cities including Abuja, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Benin, Bonny Island, Uyo, and Abakaliki. It was designed to promote a blend of sport, leisure, and business networking aimed at boosting the state’s economic and tourism potential.

Governor Otu described the tournament as a significant boost to Cross River’s tourism drive, emphasizing that the state was regaining its status as a top choice for leisure, investment, and sporting activities.

> “We are promoting golf and other sports with strong attraction value. Cross River remains one of Africa’s most beautiful tourist destinations, and we want visitors to enjoy our greenery, culture, and sports facilities,” he stated.



He further noted that his administration is focused on encouraging youth participation in sports as a means of promoting social inclusion and economic empowerment.

Speaking at the event, the Group Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Olusegun Alebiosu, reaffirmed the bank’s long-standing support for sports and community partnerships.

> “First Bank has supported polo in Kaduna for over a century and the Lagos Open Golf Tournament for more than 60 years. We are delighted to be part of this event and will continue investing in sports as part of our contribution to national development,” he said.

Alebiosu also highlighted that the bank has maintained a strong presence in Calabar for over 100 years and will continue to support both government and private sector initiatives that drive economic growth.

Vice-Captain of the Calabar Golf Club, Anita Okune, Esq., lauded the tournament as a milestone in the state’s journey toward reviving sports and tourism. She emphasized that golf serves as a bridge between business and recreation.

> “This event attracts investors who see firsthand the opportunities Calabar offers. Golfers are often captains of industry, and when they visit, they contribute to our economy and hospitality sector,” she explained.

Okune also reflected on Calabar’s rich golfing history, noting that the city once hosted Nigeria’s first golf course, with trophies dating back to 1895. The current Calabar Golf Course, established in 1991, she said, remains one of Nigeria’s toughest and most scenic municipal courses.

She added that the friendly yet competitive event showcased the state’s tourism potential, with trophies awarded across various categories.

At the end of the tournament, Fidel Udie emerged Overall Winner, Bassey Nkposong won Best Net, P.K. Bello topped the Veterans Category, Gladness Dan won the Ladies Category, Ray Ovat clinched Division 1, while Dr. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Finance, took home the Division 2 title.

Okune congratulated all participants, commending them for their role in showcasing Calabar as “the destination location” under Governor Otu’s administration.

> “Every golfer here is a winner. Together, we’ve proven that Cross River is not only a place for festivals and culture, but also a true hub for sports tourism and business networking,” she concluded.