Korede Abdullah 
Cross River Governor, Bassey Otu
CALABAR, Nigeria – Cross River State has partnered with the Federal Government to strengthen Nigeria’s livestock industry and expand export opportunities following the commissioning of the country’s first Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility in Mfum, Ikom Local Government Area.
Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, said the facility would position Cross River as a major livestock production and export hub for Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
Speaking while receiving the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, on Wednesday, the governor reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting Federal Government reforms aimed at modernising the livestock sector.
“We are happy to have your back. When you were here last, you promised to return and visit the ranch. I’m happy you’ve come, and in the next two hours I’ll be meeting investors who want to invest in the ranch,” Otu said.
He disclosed that the Obudu Ranch is being transformed into a world-class tourism and livestock destination to attract local and international investors.
The governor also announced that the cargo airport located near Obudu Ranch is about 85 per cent completed, with the first aircraft expected to land in December 2026.
According to him, scheduled commercial flights from Abuja to Bukalo Airport and from Lagos to the Obudu International Passenger and Cargo Airport are expected to commence in the first quarter of 2027.
He noted that the new airport would significantly improve livestock exports by providing farmers with direct access to international markets.
Earlier, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the Mfum Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility as a strategic national asset that would strengthen border biosecurity and livestock disease surveillance.
About the Author
Mirian Gom 
