Following weeks of strategic engagements with Cross River State indigenes in the Diaspora, Governor Bassey Otu, has said that the State is making tremendous progress towards achieving extensive economic and infrastructural advancement.
The Governor stated this while speaking to journalists shortly after arriving at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, from attending a convention of Cross River Indigenes In the Diaspora (CRID) in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
He said the meetings with the diaspora community were aimed at strengthening synergy between citizens at home and abroad in line with the demands of a globalised world.
“I first had to meet with our people in the US; we had a good interface, and they are very happy with what is going on at home. After that, I moved to the United Kingdom to meet with our diasporans there. We shared ideas and prospects. Cross River is on the proper track, and there is no stopping it,” the Governor stated.
Governor Otu stressed that his administration was focused on consolidating the “building blocks” of development before politics takes centre stage adding that Cross River has already recorded gains in GDP growth, job creation, and improvements across key sectors such as health, education, agriculture and infrastructure.
He said, “Every sector you look at, we have added value and the next quarter of the year will bring even greater improvements as opportunities are maximized.”
Speaking on the prestigious Mayor of Birmingham’s Award he received during his trip, the Governor said the honour was for all Cross Riverians, reflecting the respect the State now commands internationally.
“It adds to the building blocks of where we are taking the State to, he further stated.
On her part, Cross River State First Lady, Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, said her engagements with women in the diaspora had rekindled hopes for increased collaboration in areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
“There’s hope that our people abroad will come home more frequently to synergize, mentor, and support initiatives like girl-child education and improved health facilities,” Mrs Otu said.
The First Lady noted that many women in the diaspora were eager to return, encouraged by the improved security and governance in the State, and have already scheduled a December home-coming.
“I can’t wait to see December; it is going to be wow,” she enthused.
Governor Otu’s trip is expected to open fresh channels for investment, cultural exchange, and social development, as the State continues its drive to integrate home-based and diaspora resources for inclusive growth.
