The Obudu Ranch Resort in Cross River State is set for a major rehabilitation and reconstruction as the state government moves to reposition the iconic tourism destination for a new era of local and international visitors.
The development follows a successful test-run flight at Bebi Airstrip, a milestone that signals progress in efforts to improve access to the Obudu tourism corridor.
The initiative is being driven under the leadership of Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, with the state government describing the development as part of a broader vision to transform Obudu into a modern, world-class tourism destination.
From September 1, 2026, the Obudu Ranch Resort, Obudu Mountain Resort, Waterpark, Safari Lodge and Bebi Airstrip will temporarily close to allow for extensive rehabilitation and reconstruction works.
The planned redevelopment is expected to introduce modern facilities, improve access and expand the overall tourism experience at the destination.
Obudu has historically been one of Nigeria’s most recognisable mountain tourism destinations, attracting visitors with its distinctive highland environment, cool climate and scenic landscape. The planned reconstruction is expected to build on that legacy while introducing facilities and experiences suited to contemporary travellers.
The successful test flight at Bebi Airstrip is also expected to play an important role in improving accessibility to the area. Better air connectivity could make the destination more attractive to tourists, investors, corporate travellers and other visitors who may otherwise face lengthy road journeys to the mountain resort.
The redevelopment is coming as Cross River State continues to position tourism as a major driver of economic development. A revitalised Obudu tourism destination could generate opportunities across hospitality, transportation, entertainment, tour operations, agriculture, creative industries and other sectors connected to tourism.
The project is also expected to have implications for communities around Obudu, particularly through increased visitor traffic and demand for local businesses and services.
The state government has described the project as “more than an upgrade,” presenting it as a rebirth of the Obudu Cattle Ranch dream and an effort to create a destination worthy of Nigeria and the global tourism market.
With the temporary closure scheduled to begin on September 1, attention will now shift to the execution of the rehabilitation programme and the eventual reopening of the destination.
For a tourism landmark that has occupied a prominent place in Nigeria’s tourism history, the redevelopment represents an opportunity to restore Obudu to the centre of the country’s tourism conversation while creating a more modern experience for a new generation of visitors.
The New Obudu Ranch Resort is expected to emerge from the rehabilitation with improved facilities, smoother access and expanded experiences as Cross River State seeks to reimagine one of Nigeria’s most iconic tourism destinations.
By Sam. Opoku
