REIMAGINING THE NIGHT: THE MODEST CASE FOR INVESTING IN CROSS RIVER'S NIGHTLIFE ECONOMY
Anthony EKPO BASSEY
Cross River State is already blessed with a reputation for hospitality, heritage, and nature. From the enchanting rainforests and waterfalls to the globally recognised Calabar Carnival, the state has long been one of Nigeria’s most appealing destinations. Yet, as evening falls, the energy that defines Cross River during the day fades too quickly into silence.
In cities across Africa and beyond, the nightlife economy has become a quiet yet powerful engine for job creation, cultural expression, and tourism growth. Kigali, for instance, has successfully developed a safe and structured nightlife scene that promotes local music, cuisine, and fashion. Lagos has done the same. These examples show that nightlife is not simply about leisure or entertainment, it is a space where culture and commerce intersect.
Cross River already has what many regions strive to build from scratch: a rich cultural identity, a welcoming atmosphere, and a peaceful setting. These are its unique selling points. A carefully designed nightlife ecosystem would not only extend the state’s tourism offerings into the evening hours but also help spotlight the creativity of its young people, the richness of its culinary scene, and the warmth of its social spaces.
Imagine local food markets that remain open till midnight, where residents and tourists alike can enjoy freshly made Afang and Edikañ ikoñ soups, grilled fish, or ekpañ nkukwo. Picture guided night tours along the Calabar River, where visitors can listen to traditional stories under the stars. Envision safe, well-lit performance spaces for local musicians, poets, and dancers. These are modest initiatives that, over time, can generate meaningful income, build local pride, and offer visitors a reason to stay longer and spend more.
Importantly, the economic potential of nightlife lies in its ability to support a wide range of small businesses: food vendors, event planners, transport services, artisans, security providers, and hospitality workers, to name a few. With proper regulation and infrastructure, these sectors can thrive in the after-hours economy without disrupting the peace or safety of residents. In fact, when done responsibly, nightlife often leads to better urban management, more lighting, better roads, and stronger local policing efforts.
Revenue from licensing, permits, and tourism-related taxes can also provide the state with additional funds for reinvestment in public services and infrastructure. While these gains may start modestly, they are consistent and scalable. It is a gradual process, but one that has proven successful in many parts of the world.
Naturally, any investment in the night economy must be accompanied by thoughtful planning. Local culture should remain at the centre of every initiative, and the wellbeing of communities should always come first. The goal is not to replicate the nightlife scenes of larger cities, but to create a distinctly Cross River experience, that honours tradition while embracing opportunity.
If given the opportunity, one would be glad to contribute in an advisory capacity and work with the government, local entrepreneurs, and creative minds to develop a simple but strategic roadmap for building a modest, sustainable, and culturally respectful nightlife economy. This can begin with pilot projects, stakeholder engagement, and small-scale night events that test what works best for the state.
In every corner of Cross River, from the highlands of Obudu to the riverbanks of Calabar, there are stories waiting to be told after dark, through food, music, fashion, and fellowship. These stories carry value and not merely emotional and cultural value, but economic value too.
The night does not have to mean the end of the day’s productivity. With care and creativity, it can become a time when a new kind of economy quietly wakes up and supports livelihoods, strengthens tourism, and celebrates the best of who we are.
Cross River already shines in so many ways. Perhaps it is time to let it shine after sunset as well, in a way that is modest, meaningful, and uniquely ours.
