By EHIGIMETOR IGBAUGBA

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says reviving the original vision of Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort will trigger improved investment and export opportunities for Cross River.

The Acting Customs Area Controller, Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area, DC Nkeiruka Nwala, made the expression when she visited the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Out V, on Wednesday.

Nwala said that the NCS command was interested in working with relevant stakeholders to identify new investment and trade opportunities in the project.

“There is need to strengthen existing commercial structures, and explore viable options for reviving the Tinapa initiative,” she said

She said that the move would help to unlock the state’s economic potential, and create opportunities for businesses and investors.

“Stakeholders need to work together to explore the opportunities for reviving the project, it is a viable economic and commercial destination,” she said.

The Acting Controller said that Cross River’s geographical advantage, natural resources, and commercial potential could be better harnessed through deliberate efforts to formalise trade, expand exports, and attract investment.

She stated that repositioning the state as a competitive export hub would require stronger collaboration among government agencies, traditional institutions, investors, and the private sector.

Nwala urged the traditional institution to join the campaign for promoting lawful commercial activities, and discouraging smuggling.

“The traditional institution has roles to play in encouraging community compliance with government policies and protecting local businesses.

“They can also help to promote voluntary compliance, and creating an environment where legitimate trade can thrive,” she said.

Nwala called for closer collaboration among government agencies, traditional institutions, investors, and the private sector to unlock the economic potential of Cross River.

She reaffirmed the commitment of NSC to facilitating legitimate trade, improving revenue generation, and supporting export development through effective stakeholder engagement.

Responding, the Obong of Calabar thanked Nwala for the visit, and reiterated the roles of the customs in revenue generation, border security, and trade facilitation.

He commended the customs official for her emphasis on cooperation between the service and traditional institutions, especially in addressing challenges in commerce and community development.

“This visit reaffirms the command’s commitment to sustaining constructive relationships with traditional institutions and other stakeholders in promoting legitimate trade, export activities, and tackling snugging,” he said. (NAN)