CALABAR: Cross River State, located in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone, is renowned for its lush landscapes, cultural diversity, and rich history. Named after the Cross River which traverses it, the state was created on May 27, 1967, from the Eastern Region and later renamed in 1976. It originally included the now-separate Akwa Ibom State, carved out in 1987.
Cross River covers 20,156 km², ranking 19th in size among Nigeria’s 36 states. It shares borders with Benue, Ebonyi, Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cameroon. Its geography includes rainforests, mangroves, and mountainous terrains, with the Cross River, Calabar River, and Great Kwa River shaping much of the state’s water system.
The climate is tropical, with annual rainfall averaging 3,306 mm, and cooler temperatures in high-altitude areas like Obudu Plateau, where it can drop to 4°c
As of 2022, Cross River’s population stands at 4.4 million, making it the 28th most populous state. It is a melting pot of ethnic groups including the Efik, Ejagham (Ekoi), Yakurr, Bahumono, Bette, Yala, Igede, and Bekwarra.
These groups speak a wide range of Niger-Congo languages, with Efik, Ejagham, and Bekwarra being most widely spoken. English remains the official language. Despite the diversity, the state maintains unity through shared linguistic roots and cultural heritage.
Cross River has 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs): Abi, Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bekwarra, Bakassi, Biase, Boki, Calabar Municipal, Calabar South, Etung, Ikom, Obanliku, Obubra, Obudu, Odukpani, Ogoja, Yakurr, and Yala.
Christianity is the dominant religion, with both Catholic and Anglican denominations playing significant roles. The Catholic Archdiocese of Calabar and Diocese of Ogoja oversee dozens of parishes. Minority groups still practice traditional African religions.
In pre-colonial times, parts of Cross River were part of the Aro Confederacy, while Old Calabar (Akwa Akpa) emerged as a key trade hub. The British formalized control in the early 1900s. During the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), the state suffered from ethnic persecution by Biafran forces due to its non-Igbo composition.
Today, the state operates under Nigeria’s democratic system. The current governor is Bassey Edet Otu of the APC, elected in 2023.
Cross River’s economy is based on agriculture, with crops like cocoa, yam, oil palm, rubber, and cashews. Fishing, tourism, and small-scale industries also contribute. The state has a GDP (PPP) of $26.33 billion, ranking 14th nationally.
Major tourist attractions include the Obudu Mountain Resort, Kwa Falls, Ikom Monoliths, and Cross River National Park. The Calabar Carnival, Africa’s biggest street party, draws global visitors annually.
Cross River is accessible via the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar and several major highways, such as the A4, A343, and Trans-African Highway 8, which connect to neighboring states and Cameroon. The state also features navigable waterways and a major seaport in Calabar.
Cross River boasts multiple educational institutions. Prominent ones include the University of Calabar, University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Federal College of Education, Obudu, and Arthur Jarvis University. These institutions support the state’s growing literacy and development metrics.
Cross River is home to numerous festivals that celebrate its heritage. Key events include the Calabar Christmas Festival, Leboku Yam Festival, Calabar Boat Regatta, and Bahumono cultural festivals.
These festivals feature vibrant dances such as Ikpobin, Ekoi, and Obam, showcasing the state’s rich traditions.
Cross River State stands out as one of Nigeria’s most ecologically, culturally, and historically significant states. With its commitment to tourism, education, and sustainable development, the state continues to serve as a key player in Nigeria’s socioeconomic
