This guide comprehensively lists all the local government areas in Cross River State and their Chairmen. Cross River State, located in the South-South region of Nigeria, was formed on May 27, 1967, from the eastern part of the Eastern Region.
Its capital is Calabar. It shares borders with Benue, Ebonyi, Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cameroon. Originally called the South-Eastern State, it was renamed Cross River State in 1976. Akwa Ibom was part of the state until it became separate in 1987.
With a population of over 5 million (as of 2025), Cross River is the 19th largest state in size and the 27th most populous. Its land includes forests, rivers, and wildlife reserves, such as the Cross River National Park, home to rare animals like the Cross River gorilla and Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee.
The state is historically significant, as Calabar was once a major trading hub and a colonial protectorate. It also played a part in Nigeria’s fight for independence and experienced challenges during the Civil War.
Cross River’s economy relies on agriculture, growing crops like cocoa, oil palm, and yams. Tourism is important too, with attractions like Obudu Mountain Resort and the Calabar Carnival.
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List Of Local Government Areas In Cross River State And Their Chairmen
Cross River State in Nigeria is divided into 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs), each with its own chairman.
- Abi LGA – Hon. Egbala Bassey
- Akamkpa LGA – Hon. Linus Bassey
- Akpabuyo LGA – Hon. Prince Effiom Bassey
- Bekwarra LGA – Hon. Josephat Owan Emeka
- Biase LGA – Hon. Ada Charles Egwu
- Boki LGA – Hon. Beatrice Nyiam
- Calabar Municipal LGA – Hon. (Apostle) James Anam
- Calabar South LGA – Hon. Esther Bassey
- Etung LGA – Hon. John Etuk
- Ikom LGA – Hon. Kingsley Egumi
- Obanliku LGA – Hon. Joseph Ajom
- Obubra LGA – Hon. Michael Abang
- Obudu LGA – Hon. Peter Undiandeye
- Odukpani LGA – Hon. Justina Edem
- Ogoja LGA – Hon. Chris Agbeh
- Yakurr LGA – Hon. Yibala Inyang
- Yala LGA – Hon. Thomas Ben
Which LGA Is The Most Populated In Cross River State?
Akpabuyo Local Government Area is the most populated LGA in Cross River State, Nigeria. As of 2025 population projection, its population is projected to be 523,678.
Akpabuyo is located in the Southern Senatorial District of the state, and its headquarters is at Ikot Nakanda. The LGA was created on August 27, 1991, when it was separated from Odukpani LGA, becoming the 14th LGA in Cross River State.
Akpabuyo spans an area of 871.9 square kilometers. It shares boundaries with Bakassi to the east and the Republic of Cameroon to the west. The area is part of Nigeria’s southern vegetation belt, which makes it fertile for agriculture.
The Efik, Quas, and Efuts are the major ethnic groups in Akpabuyo, and they share cultural and ancestral ties. Efik and English are the main languages spoken in the area.
Agriculture is a key part of life in Akpabuyo, earning it the nickname “Food Basket of Cross River State.” The people grow crops like cassava, cocoyam, kola nuts, coconut, and palm produce. Fishing is another important activity due to its coastal location.
Akpabuyo is also rich in natural resources like petroleum, gold, limestone, sand, and salt. The area has seen development over the years, with improved power supply, solar lighting, and public water facilities, due to projects supported by local leaders.
However, the population of Akpabuyo has grown steadily over time. It was 103,952 in 1991, increased to 272,262 by 2006, and reached 414,700 in 2022. This growth is due to fertile agricultural lands, fishing opportunities, trade, and better services.
Also, Akpabuyo has ten council wards, including Ikot Nakanda, Atimbo East, Atimbo West, Ikang North, Ikang South, and Eneyo, among others.
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What is the richest Local Government Area In Cross River State?
The richest Local Government Area in Cross River State is Calabar Municipality, with an estimated Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of over $5 billion. This LGA is the capital of Cross River State and stands out because of its vibrant economy.
It is known for tourism, trade, and small industries, which has made it a key economic center in the region. Calabar Municipality is called Nigeria’s tourism capital because it attracts visitors from all over the world.
One of the biggest events in the area is the Calabar Carnival, often described as Africa’s biggest street party. This event brings many tourists, boosting the local economy.
Additionally, the Slave History Museum is an important site that tells the story of the area’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. The natural beauty of the area, along with its proximity to parks and reserves, also makes it a favorite destination for ecotourism activities like hiking and wildlife exploration.
Apart from tourism, the economy of Calabar Municipality thrives on trade and small industries. It has busy markets where people trade goods like agricultural products and handmade items.
Local industries, including palm oil production and food processing, also contribute a lot to the area’s economy. The LGA has also benefited from infrastructure development.
Better roads and transportation systems have helped improve trade and movement within the area. Investments in public utilities like electricity and water supply have made life better for both residents and businesses. Although Calabar Municipality is the richest, other LGAs like Obudu, Ikom, and Bakassi also contribute to the state’s economy.
Obudu is famous for its tourism and agriculture, Ikom is known for its agricultural output, and Bakassi has marine resources and crude oil. However, Calabar Municipality remains the wealthiest due to its combination of tourism, trade, and development.
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What Is The Biggest LGA In Cross River State By Land Mass?
The largest Local Government Area (LGA) in Cross River State by land mass is Akamkpa, which covers around 5,003 square kilometers. It is not only the biggest LGA in the state but also one of the largest in Nigeria.
Akamkpa is located in the southern part of Cross River State and is known for its rich natural environment. The area features tropical rainforests, hills, and rivers.
It is also home to a major portion of the Cross River National Park, which is famous for its unique plants and animals. This biodiversity makes Akamkpa important for conservation efforts.
The economy of Akamkpa mainly depends on agriculture. People living in the area grow crops such as cassava, yams, and oil palm. These crops are essential for both local consumption and trade.
In addition to farming, the LGA has many forestry resources, which support timber production and other industries related to forests. These resources contribute significantly to the economic activities in the area.
Over the years, Akamkpa has experienced some development in terms of infrastructure.Roads connecting the LGA to other parts of Cross River State have been improved, which has made it easier for people and goods to move in and out of the area.
This has helped in boosting trade and overall economic growth. According to the 2006 census, Akamkpa had a population of 151,125. However, as of 2025 population projection, the population is expected to reach 287,943.
