BY UBON EKANEM, CALABAR – Arising from weeks of planned and purposeful interactions with Cross Riverians in the Diaspora, Governor Bassey Otu says the State is on the ascendancy of positive socio-economic growth and development.
According to the governor, his recent meetings with the diaspora community were focused on enhancing collaboration between citizens at home and abroad considering the emerging demands of the world as a global village
Governor Otu made the upward trajectory assertion while addressing journalists at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, shortly on arrival from attending a convention of Cross River Indigenes In the Diaspora (CRID) in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
He said, “I first had to meet with our people in the United States; 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”.
He said his administration is determined to consolidate on the “building blocks” of development before active politicking sets in ahead of the 2027 general elections,
While maintaining that the State has recorded gains in GDP growth, job creation, and improvements across key sectors such as health, education agriculture and infrastructure, the governor said, “Every sector you look at, we have added value”.
For him, the next quarter of 2025 would bring even greater improvements as Cross Riverians and the State government continue to maximise existing and emerging opportunities
On the prestigious Mayor of Birmingham’s Award he received during the trip, Governor Otu said it is an honour for all Cross Riverians, as the development reflects the global respect which the state now commands.
He said the award “adds to the building blocks of where we are taking the state.”
On her part, the Governor’s wife, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Otu, said the engagements with women in the diaspora have reignited expectations for stronger partnership in areas that include education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and agriculture.
The State First Lady said, “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.”
Furthermore, Mrs Otu said many diaspora women were eager to return, encouraged by the improved security and governance in the State, adding that they have already scheduled a December homecoming.
“I can’t wait to see December unfolds; it is going to be wow!,” an elated First Lady said.
Meanwhile, inside sources hinted that with the present administration’s vision of integrating home-based and diaspora resources for inclusive growth in line with its ‘People’s First Agenda’, the Governor’s trip will ultimately establish new pathways for investment, cultural exchange, and socio-economic development across the length and breadth of the State.
