The grant was presented on Tuesday at Marina Resort Calabar by Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong, the Managing Director of the State Tourism Board, on behalf of Governor Prince Bassey Otu.

Addressing the gathering of hoteliers and stakeholders in the hospitality sector, Ekpenyong emphasized the critical role of tourism in the state. He explained that the grant, although modest, aims to support the hotels in revamping their receptions and upgrading their bedding facilities in anticipation of the influx of tourists, guests, and participants during the carnival.

“This grant, as the first phase, demonstrates the state governor’s commitment to ensuring that the ambiance and condition of hotels in Calabar are improved and maintained for the thousands of visitors and guests coming next week for the carnival,” Ekpenyong stated. He also mentioned that a similar gesture would be extended to hotels in the central and northern parts of the state in the near future.

The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, represented by the Minority Leader, assured the hotel owners that the legislators would enforce state laws to ensure peace, safety, and cleanliness in the city during the carnival.

The Commissioner for Tourism and Culture, Abubakar Ewa, outlined the criteria for selecting the ten hotels, which included factors such as the number of rooms, functionality, and power facilities.

Mr. Charles Ogar, the President of the Hotel Owners Association in the state, expressed gratitude to the government for the grant. He acknowledged the challenges faced by hotels and assured that the funds would be utilized judiciously as they prepare to welcome visitors to the Calabar Carnival.