Cross River Governor Seeks Stronger Diaspora Partnership for Development

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, says the state is on a steady path of growth following strategic engagements with Cross River indigenes in the diaspora.

Speaking to journalists at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, after returning from the Cross River Indigenes in the Diaspora (CRID) convention in Birmingham, the governor said the meetings were aimed at fostering closer ties between citizens at home and abroad to drive investment and innovation.

Otu, who also met with Cross Riverians in the United States, noted that discussions covered shared ideas and developmental prospects. “Cross River is on the proper track, and there is no stopping it,” he said, adding that his administration is focused on strengthening the “building blocks” of development before politics takes over.

He highlighted recorded gains in GDP growth, job creation, and sectoral improvements in health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure, assuring that the next quarter will see further progress.

During the trip, Otu received the Mayor of Birmingham’s Award, which he dedicated to all Cross Riverians, describing it as a testament to the state’s rising global profile.

First Lady, Bishop (Mrs) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, who also attended the event, said her engagements with women in the diaspora opened new opportunities for collaboration in education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment.