By Lawrence Mpama
Tinapa, Africa’s business and leisure resort located in Calabar, was conceived and constructed by the administration of Mr Donald Duke, governor of Cross River State between 1999 – 2007. It was meant to serve as a hub for entertainment, business and tourism. It has been immerged in serious financial and management issues with some big banks in Nigeria, which led to it take over by Asset management company of Nigeria (AMCON). It’s a massive complex that combines entertainment, tourism, and business facilities.
Tinapa has faced some challenges in recent years, including management issues and competition from other resorts. However, the efforts being made to revamp and reposition the resort as a top destination in Nigeria has paid off with the take over and reclaiming of the business resort by the present administration of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, governor of Cross River State.
The governor disclosed that the state government under his watch has taken over the possession of the foremost Tinapa Business Resort from AMCON. He averred that the decision to take over TINAPA was possible after reaching an agreement with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).
Governor Otu, Speaking at an interactive session with media executives and journalists in his temporary office in Calabar, asserted that the recovery of the resort was not easy but with the cooperation of the Federal Government, and after the state had made some financial commitment to AMCON. He did not however disclose how much was paid.
He stated that, “The state spent homogous amount with taxpayers money to construct Tinapa, so he cannot sit back and watch the gigantic complex taken away just like that”. He informed Cross Riverians that his administration has concluded arrangements to resuscitate all moribund cottage industries set up by his predecessors.
The governor vowed not to leave any asset of the state to rot. “We will not leave anything to waste under my watch. We will get back the economy of the state by bringing back all these industries. We call on our people to be patient with us as we move the state to next state of development with the people first mantra”.
Tinapa is a modern, world-class resort that offers a unique blend of business, leisure, and entertainment. The complex is designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for visitors, with its beautifully landscaped gardens, serene lakes, and stunning architecture.
