The Cross River State government has officially revoked the concession agreement with CIBA Construction Company Limited for the management of the iconic Obudu Cattle Ranch, citing multiple contractual breaches.
Governor Bassey Otu’s decision was conveyed through a letter signed by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani. The letter outlined CIBA’s failure to meet critical development obligations, including much-needed renovations to the ranch’s hotel and infrastructure.
“Despite multiple breaches and continued non-compliance, the Cross River Government has terminated the agreement with immediate effect,” Ani stated.
The governor has now directed the Special Adviser and CEO of Obudu Ranch Resort, Sunday Michael, to spearhead efforts to restore the once-thriving tourist destination.
The 25-year concession agreement, initiated in 2017 under former Governor Ben Ayade’s administration, aimed to revamp the ranch under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). However, with CIBA failing to deliver, the government has opted to reclaim control and reposition the ranch for tourism growth.
Originally developed in 1951 by Scottish rancher M. McCaughey, the Obudu Cattle Ranch gained international recognition after extensive renovations under Governor Donald Duke’s administration (1999-2007). Duke transformed the ranch into a premier tourist destination, enhancing road access, building chalets, and introducing the famous cable cars.
However, years of neglect by successive administrations led to a decline in its appeal, with infrastructure deteriorating and patronage dwindling.
Now, with the government’s renewed commitment, many hope that the ranch will once again reclaim its place as one of Nigeria’s top tourism hotspots.
