South South · Capital: Calabar
Cross River State
Governor: Bassey Otu
Population
2,892,988
Land area
20,156 km²
Created
May 27, 1967
Governance
Bassey Edet Otu (APC, born 18 October 1959), popularly known as 'Sweet Prince,' has served as Governor of Cross River State since May 2023. A former Senator and House of Representatives member for Calabar, his 'People First' administration signed a ₦961 billion 2026 Appropriation Bill focused on measurable Human Development Index outcomes.
History
Cross River State was created on 27 May 1967 as the South-Eastern State, renamed Cross River in 1976. Nicknamed 'The People's Paradise,' it borders Cameroon and takes its name from the Cross River (Oyono) running through it. Its official 2006 census population was 2,892,988.
Natural Resources
Crude oil and natural gas
Large reserves forming a core part of the state's economic base.
Limestone and salt
Among a wide range of solid minerals found in the state, including coal, manganese, mica, gold, and kaolin.
Tourism
Nigeria's premier tourist destination, home to the annual Calabar Carnival and vast protected rainforest.
- Obudu Mountain Resort
- Agbokim Waterfalls
- Kwa Falls
- Cross River National Park
- Tinapa Business Resort
- Ikom Monoliths
- Calabar Carnival
Agriculture
One of Nigeria's largest agrarian economies, with arable land suited to a wide variety of crops.
Cocoa · Rubber · Rice · Cassava
Investment
A diversified, service-led economy built on tourism, hospitality, and agriculture rather than oil dependence, with a 2026 budget of ₦961 billion prioritizing rural connectivity and urban renewal (67% capital expenditure).
Tourism & hospitality · Agriculture · Solid minerals · MICE industry
Infrastructure
Education
University of Calabar · Cross River University of Technology