Hotel owners in Cross River have identified poor power supply as the major factor affecting their operations in the state.
Mr Charles Ogar, State Chairman of the Cross River Hotel Owners Association, said this on Wednesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar.
“One of our major challenges is poor power supply.
“Power is not regular and the cost of power is rising every day. What this means is that, we rely more on generators and you know what that means.
“The recession is also affecting hotel business in the state because activities are very low. As I speak, rooms are empty,’’ Ogar said.
He, however, expressed hope that the situation might change with the Yuletide drawing nearer.
According to him, with several tourists expected in Calabar for the yearly Carnival, the tempo of economic activities will improve.
He said that in keeping with tradition, hotels had been painted and decorated while some had been given face-lift to attract tourists.
“We are ready for the Carnival and other festivities.’’
NAN reports that most hospitality outfits in Calabar have upgraded their facilities in anticipation of tourists for the Carnival which begins from December 26 to 29. (NAN)