Cross River State has taken a bold step toward global collaboration with the successful hosting of its maiden Diaspora Convention in Birmingham, United Kingdom, last weekend. Themed “Diaspora Contribution to the Development and Sustainability of Cross River State,” the historic gathering marked a watershed moment in reconnecting Cross Riverians abroad with the home government in a shared vision of inclusive and sustainable development.
Bringing together indigenes from Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, the convention was a powerful expression of unity, pride, and purpose. The presence of Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu and First Lady Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu electrified the atmosphere, as the duo received a standing ovation upon arrival, symbolizing the strength of the bond between the state and its global citizens.
Delivering a keynote address laced with emotion and strategic vision, Governor Otu declared:
“My dear brothers and sisters in the diaspora, this gathering is more than symbolic; it is strategic. We are here because the bridge home has finally been built, and I, your governor, have come to walk across it with you.”
The governor’s words ignited a passionate response from the audience as he appealed for deeper engagement from Cross Riverians abroad in the journey toward sustainable development. “Cross River needs you now more than ever,” he declared, emphasizing that his People First agenda places priority on inclusivity, innovation, and global partnerships.
He urged the diaspora to move beyond emotional ties to action-oriented involvement: “This government is not only about those at home, it is about all our people, everywhere. The talents, capital, and experiences you have acquired abroad must find expression back home.”
In what was described as the highlight of the event, Governor Otu received an award from the Mayor of Birmingham, Zafar Iqbal, in recognition of his leadership and diaspora engagement efforts. His response was a clarion call to identity and ownership:
“You are not outsiders. You are stakeholders. You are not mere observers of Cross River’s destiny; you are architects of its future.”
The governor used the occasion to announce the creation of a Diaspora Engagement and Development Desk, a strategic platform within government to streamline collaboration, facilitate diaspora-led projects, and ensure accountability in implementation.
From tech innovation and health interventions to educational infrastructure and rural development, the governor promised open doors for global citizens with local roots.
“From Obudu’s rolling hills to Bakassi’s coastal hopes, from our cocoa valleys to our digital dreams, we want your hands, your hearts, and your hopes,” he said.
The governor’s rallying cry echoed into the hearts of all in attendance: “Let Birmingham be the beginning, not the peak, of our journey homeward. Come home, not just to visit, but to build.”
The First Lady, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, added a powerful voice to the conversation, calling on Cross River women in the diaspora to be active advocates for maternal health and girl-child education. “Every Cross River girl deserves a global sister looking out for her,” she told the captivated audience.
Earlier, Mr. Christopher Lekan, President of the Cross River State Diaspora Forum, praised the governor for breaking the “jinx of detachment” that had long stifled meaningful diaspora engagement.
“This convention is not just about handshakes and photos. It is the beginning of a robust, structured partnership for development,” Lekan said.
He unveiled plans to launch a Diaspora Investment Fund to mobilize financial and intellectual capital for projects in health, ICT, and youth entrepreneurship.
“We no longer want to send only remittances, we want to return with ideas, technology, and capital,” he added.
Throughout the convention, high-level panel sessions explored actionable pathways for diaspora collaboration in key sectors. From education reform and digital governance to medical outreach and cultural preservation, attendees mapped out clear agendas and pledged support. Among notable commitments were rural telemedicine schemes, school library refurbishments, and agribusiness cooperatives.
Distinguished speakers, including Chief Dr. Asuquo Ekpenyong Snr., offered insights into how global best practices could be localized to address the state’s development challenges.
