Calabar, often celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and pristine natural landscapes, is rapidly emerging as a beacon for business investment within Nigeria. Ever found yourself daydreaming about a business paradise? Well, pack your bags (and your entrepreneurial spirit) because Calabar is quietly positioning itself as Nigeria’s next big business hub. Care to know why?
Calabar, the capital city of the ‘Nation’s Paradise’, and described as the ‘tourism capital of Nigeria’, has seen significant initiatives implemented during the administration of Donald Duke as Governor of Cross River State (1999–2007). These initiatives transformed the city into the cleanest and most environmentally friendly city in Nigeria. Gradually, over the years, these titles seemed to be threatened as headlines suggesting a reversal filled the internet and radio shows. Recently, the desire to bring back Calabar’s tourism appeal and its lost glory by the incumbent Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu , Calabar have been quite evident.
Beyond its reputation for captivating tourism and a serene atmosphere, Calabar city offers a cocktail of basic amenities, a favourable climate, and a strategic location that’s too good to ignore. Calabar is strategically positioned with its proximity to Central Africa and Gulf of Guinea. The city’s strategic location as a gateway to the Eastern and Southern parts of Nigeria, coupled with its favorable climate, makes it an ideal hub for both local and international businesses. A testament to Calabar’s potential is the success story of the Calabar Free Trade Zone (CFTZ), which has attracted multinational companies, fostering economic growth and creating job opportunities. Add to this mix a welcoming community ready to embrace newcomers, and that gets any forward thinking entrepreneur the perfect recipe for business growth. Calabar is not just leveraging its existing strengths; it’s setting the stage for a vibrant economic future. So, why not join the conversation and explore how this city is turning dreams into reality for savvy entrepreneurs?
Calabar’s tourism appeal, serene environment, basic amenities, favorable climate, strategic location, welcoming community, and by leveraging its existing strengths position it as a promising location for business growth in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the city’s commitment to maintaining a clean and serene environment has not only enhanced its tourism appeal but has also created a conducive atmosphere for business operations. The incumbent government’s investment in basic amenities and infrastructure underscores its readiness to support business expansion. Additionally, Calabar’s welcoming community is a significant asset, offering a supportive environment for new businesses.
In all of these, one thing is left; existence of enterprise hubs. With enterprise hubs providing coworking spaces for both established businesses and startups, an excellent place for business networking would go a long way for collaborations and business growth. The incumbent government is doing its best to boost existing strengths, the private sectors should ride on this for a prosperous Calabar, and Nigeria at large.
Finally, by capitalizing on these strengths, Calabar is poised to transform into a vibrant business hub, promising a blend of cultural richness and economic prosperity.
Frank Edima is a Development Strategist. She is the Founder and Director General of Bakassi Fish Festival. She writes from Abuja.
Catch up with all of Cross River State Government’s update through its the Ministry of Information.
