By Caroline Ugbor
The Cross River State tourism sector has plunged into mourning following the sudden death of the Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, Prince Ekpenyong Ojoi.
Ojoi passed away yesterday, June 24, 2026, at approximately 5pm in Calabar, sources close to the state government confirmed. While official statements regarding the cause of death have not yet been released, his unexpected collapse sent immediate shockwaves through the state’s executive chambers and the broader hospitality industry.
Appointed by Governor Bassey Otu, Prince Ojoi was widely regarded as the driving force behind the administration’s aggressive push to reposition Cross River as Nigeria’s premier tourism destination. In just a short tenure, he orchestrated what many industry watchers have called a “turnaround” for the state’s long-neglected tourism assets.
Under his stewardship, the Tourism Bureau successfully brokered multi-billion-naira private-sector concessions for two of the state’s crown jewels—the Marina Resort in Calabar and the Obudu Mountain Resort. The Obudu deal, in particular, had attracted significant national attention, with investors pledging substantial capital to upgrade the mountain retreat into a world-class facility capable of competing on the international stage.
Beyond the headline-grabbing investment deals, Ojoi was known for his hands-on approach and unrelenting energy. He frequently travelled between Calabar and Obudu, personally overseeing renovations and engaging with local communities to ensure that tourism development translated into tangible economic benefits for residents. He also championed the revival of the state’s cultural calendar, pushing for expanded events beyond the famed Calabar Carnival to include food festivals, art exhibitions, and eco-tourism initiatives.
Tributes have already begun pouring in from government officials, tourism operators, and entertainment stakeholders. Colleagues described him as a “visionary,” “tireless,” and “a rare breed of public servant who understood that tourism was not just about leisure but about livelihoods.”
One senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “Prince Ojoi didn’t just manage a bureau—he built a movement. He made us believe that Cross River could once again be the pride of Nigerian tourism. His loss is irreplaceable.”
The Cross River State Government is expected to release an official statement in the coming hours. As of press time, funeral arrangements have not been announced, but sources indicate that the government is planning a state-assisted burial to honour his contributions.
Prince Ojoi is survived by his wife and children.
Converseer reports that Ojoi’s death is occurring one and a half years after the passing of Hon. Abubakar Ewa, former Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, in January 2025.
