A total of 71 foreign embassies have shown interest in participating in 2025 edition of Carnival Calabar, widely celebrated as Africa’s biggest street party.
Gatekeepers News reports that this was revealed by Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, during the official commissioning of the newly refurbished 4-star Channel View Hotel in Calabar on Friday.
Governor Otu highlighted the growing significance of hospitality to the state’s economy and underscored the need for high-quality hotel accommodations, particularly as international attention toward the state’s flagship carnival continues to rise.
He said, “ We had over 40 ambassadors request participation last year, but could only host 12. This year, we’ve received applications from 71 embassies. That tells you why this kind of investment is not only welcome but urgent.”
The Governor lauded the hotel’s transformation as both a testament to private sector resilience and a strategic contribution to Cross River’s re-emerging reputation as a tourism destination.
Otu also commended the hotel’s management for undertaking such a large-scale renovation without financial assistance from the government, describing the achievement as admirable and aligned with the administration’s development goals.
He said, “ This is a beautiful day, and I thank God for the opportunity to witness the rebirth of this edifice.”
“The Chairman has already mentioned my involvement with this hotel over the years, and I’m grateful to see it restored to excellence. You never asked us for a dime, yet you’ve raised the standard to a level that aligns with what we envision for Cross River.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fostering public-private partnerships, the governor invited credible investors to collaborate with the government across key sectors.
He said, “We are open for business and partnership. If you have a viable idea and need support, this government is willing to back you. This is a people-first administration, and through strategic collaboration, we will build a stronger Cross River.”
In his remarks, Chairman of Channel View Hotel, Etiyin Asuquo Ekpenyong, described the day as historic and deeply meaningful.
He reflected on the Governor’s personal connection to the hotel, noting that both official and personal milestones in Otu’s life had taken place within its walls.
Ekpenyong said, “You have always been part of Channel View’s story; from your days in Abuja as a lawmaker to your wedding here in Calabar. Today’s commissioning simply renews a bond that already exists.”
Ekpenyong explained that the full renovation was prompted by extensive wear during past political activities.
He said, “ We realized the entire structure needed a reset, and today, we’re proud to present a new Channel View, modern, refreshed, and positioned for the future.”
Executive Director of the hotel, Mr. Andrew Ekpenyong, noted that the renovation marked the fifth major upgrade since the hotel was established in 2001.
He expressed confidence that the remodeled facility, featuring 100 refurbished rooms, a fine-dining restaurant, and upgraded amenities, would reignite confidence in Calabar’s tourism and business landscape.
The director said, “Despite economic headwinds, we persevered. Today, we boast 100 newly furnished guest rooms, a fine-dining restaurant, and modern amenities fit for international guests. We thank God for making this possible.”
The event was attended by prominent figures from both government and the private sector, including former Governor Donald Duke, former Deputy Governor Prof. Ivara Esu, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.
