Cross River to Host National Diaspora Summit in October

Cross River State will host the 2025 National Diaspora Focal Persons Summit in October, bringing together government officials, diaspora stakeholders, and international partners in Calabar.

The announcement was made on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

Governor Otu praised Dabiri-Erewa for strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with its citizens abroad, noting that her leadership has improved the country’s image internationally. He added that Cross River is prepared to use the summit as a platform to showcase its safety, infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, and investment opportunities.

“Hosting this summit here will showcase our potential to the world,” Governor Otu said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to making the event a success.

Dabiri-Erewa commended Cross River for being the first Nigerian state to establish a dedicated Diaspora Commission building, calling it both “impressive and historic.” She also encouraged the state to remain active in national diaspora activities such as Diaspora Day and the Diaspora Merit Awards.

Prince Otu Okor, Chairman of the Cross River Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), disclosed that the three-day summit will consolidate new partnerships, including engagements with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), renewed ties with Maryland, USA, and talks with the British African Union Group.

“With His Excellency’s approval, we will tomorrow sign a formal partnership with the IOM, further positioning Cross River as a hub for diaspora collaboration,” Okor said.

The summit is expected to strengthen diaspora-driven development and reinforce Cross River’s emerging role as a key player in Nigeria’s diaspora engagement efforts.