ATPN Mourns the Loss of Cross River Tourism Commissioner ... As ATPN South-South VP Sends Condolences to Cross River State Government
The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has mourned the loss of Abubakar Robert Ewa, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture in Cross River State.
Chief Anthony Tosan Prest, National Vice President of ATPN (South-South), extended condolences to the government, people, and family of the late commissioner, describing his passing as a devastating blow to the region and Nigeria's tourism industry.
Chief Prest's statement, issued in Benin City, Edo State on Friday, highlighted the significant impact of the late commissioner's contributions to the tourism industry in Cross River, which will be deeply felt across the region and beyond, acknowledging that late Ewa possessed a unique blend of skills, traits, and experiences that made him outstanding among his colleagues not only in Cross River state but across the region.
"On behalf of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), South South region, may I extend our heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Cross River State, as well as the family of the late commissioner, Mr. Abubakar Robert Ewa. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations. Please accept ATPN's sincerest sympathies during this difficult time.
"We were deeply saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Mr. Abubakar Robert Ewa. He was indeed a shining star in Cross River State and the South-South region, and his loss will be felt far and wide. Our thoughts and prayers are with the government and people of Cross River State, particularly the wife and children he left behind commissioner. May God grant them the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss. May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.
"Apart from being a vibrant and creative individual with problem-solving capacity, late Abubakar Robert Ewa was very skilled at finding innovative solutions to complex challenges, balancing tourism development with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation He was able to build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including local communities, artists, tourism operators, and government agencies.
"He had deep understanding and appreciation of the local culture, arts, and heritage, as well as the ability to promote and celebrate diversity, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to articulate clear vision to inspire others to work towards achieving common goal.
"As a strategic thinker, late Ewa possessed the ability to think critically and strategically to make informed decisions to drive tourism, arts, and cultural development in his state. He also exhibited a genuine passion for tourism, arts, and culture, with a contagious enthusiasm that inspired others to get involved.
He had unparalleled commitment to engaging with local communities, listening to their needs, and involving them in decision-making processes.
"Skilled at developing and implementing innovative marketing strategies that showcased the unique attractions and experiences of Cross River State, the late tourism commissioner fostered community engagement to promote the rich cultural heritage of Cross River State and by extention, the BRACED region," Chief Tosan Prest maintained.
