Cross River Has Put Nigeria On Global Map, Says PENGASSAN

SAN FRANCISCO, March 28, (THEWILL) - Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN has lauded Cross River State Government for initiating a world-class conference facility which will serve as an iconic event place in sub-Saharan Africa.

Making the commendation during an inspection tour of some of projects embarked upon by Governor Liyel Imoke after their 2-Day Conference in Calabar, Friday, Comrade Frank Esanubi, leader of the delegation and Chairman of PENGASSAN, Chevron Nigeria Ltd branch, said: 'The project is a novel idea and one project that I will advise government to ensure its completion before the expiration of this administration because it will add value to the state's tourism drive.

'I commend Governor Liyel Imoke for what he is currently developing.

I learnt the conference facility has 5000 seating capacity, and currently so many organizations which have large members will always prefer Abuja for their events because there is an International Conference Centre there.

But with this facility now coupled with peace and serenity of Calabar, I am sure the traffic will gradually move to Calabar.

" On the choice of Calabar for the event, the chairman said: 'While planning for this conference, we agreed that our choice of a venue must be a place where the people are receptive, a place that we can feel at home, safe and it was the unanimous decision of the executive to settle for Calabar.

So, for any institution or organization, Calabar is the best choice.

Continuing, he said, 'If you look at the polity in Nigeria generally, Cross River State, since the return to democracy has been blessed with good leadership compared to other states in the federation.

It is something that is worthy of emulation and commendable too.

" He commended the people of the state for the support given to the state government which has translated into massive infrastructural development across the state.

Conducting the PENGAASAN team round the facilities including Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, Mr.

Sunny Udeh, an aide to Governor Imoke on Administration said the development area which consists of a Convention Centre, a 200-room 5-star hotel, Recreational Facilities, Golf Course, Clubhouse, Nature Reserve, hospital and a variety of residential units was to create a vibrant and bustling community within a unique Eco system not found anywhere in Nigeria.

He said the facilities would be commissioned early next year.