Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has declared that the state is firmly on an upward trajectory following weeks of strategic engagements with Cross Riverians in the diaspora.
Speaking to journalists on Friday at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, upon his return from attending the Cross River Indigenes in the Diaspora (CRID) convention in Birmingham, United Kingdom, Governor Otu said the meetings were designed to strengthen 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 United States; we had a productive 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 explored opportunities. Cross River is on the proper track, and there is no stopping it,” the governor said.
Governor Otu emphasised that his administration remains committed to consolidating the “building blocks” of development before political activities intensify. He noted that the state has recorded notable gains in GDP growth, job creation, and advancements across key sectors including health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“Every sector you look at, we have added value,” he stated, adding that the next quarter of the year would deliver even greater results as opportunities are fully harnessed.
While in Birmingham, Governor Otu received the prestigious Mayor of Birmingham’s Award, an honour he dedicated to all Cross Riverians, describing it as a testament to the respect the state now commands internationally. “It adds to the building blocks of where we are taking the state,” he remarked.
Also speaking, the First Lady, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, said her engagements with women in the diaspora rekindled hopes for stronger collaboration in education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
“There’s hope that our people abroad will come home more frequently to synergise, mentor, and support initiatives like girl-child education and improved health facilities,” she said.
The First Lady disclosed that many diaspora women, encouraged by the state’s improved security and governance, have already scheduled a December homecoming. “I can’t wait to see December; it is going to be wow,” she added.
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.
