Cross River is a coastal state in southeastern Nigeria, bordering Cameroon to the east. Its capital is at Calabar, and it is named for the Cross River, which passes through the state.

The state was created in 1967 from part of the former Eastern Region, and was known as the 'South-Eastern State until 1976 when it adopted its present name. The state originally included what is now Akwa Ibom State.

Location

Cross River State is located in Nigeria's Delta region.It is bounded on the North by Benue State, on the South by Akwa Ibom State, on the East by Cameroun Repulic and on the West by Anambra and Imo States.

History

Agriculture

The main crops are cassava, yams, rice, plantain, banana, cocoyam, maize, cocoa, rubber, groundnut and palm produce.

Mineral Resources

Mineral resources in Cross river State include limestone, titanium, tin ore, ceramic raw materials and hardstone

Education

There are more than 230 pre-primary schools, 648 primary schools, 145 post-primary school and a Polytechnic in the state. Also, there are a State College of Education and a Federal University - the University of Calabar.

Tourism

Kwa falls, Kuya L.G.A. Natural RIVER * Agbokim falls, Ikom Natural L.G.A. * Obudu Cattle Ranch Resort (Man- made) * Coercopan, Ishie Close, zoo Calabar * Cross River National Park Eco-Tourism/ Wildlife * Drill Ranch, Calabar Zoo * Ekpe Masquerade Cultural * National Museum Monument * Rock with foot prints National

People

Efik is very widely spoken in Cross River State because it used to be a language of trade and commerce in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Other languages spoken are Ekoi, Etung, Boki and Becheve. The Becheve people have linguistic affinity with the Tiv of Benue State. The people's wood carving, stone sculpture, raffia and cane works, pottery and silver works are highly valued in and outside Nigeria.

Local Government Areas

Abi, Akampu, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Bekwara, Biase, Boki, Calabar-Municipal, Calabar South, Etung, Ikom, Obanliku, Obubra, Obudu, Odukpani, Ogoja, Yakurr, Yala

Links

www.crossriverstate.com

Schools on The Web:

Contact

State Liason Office:
Plot 1229, Ahmadu Bello Way,
Victoria Island, Lagos.
Tel: 01-2610005.