The Cross River State Government has welcomed participants of Executive Course 48 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, describing their strategic orientation tour of the state as recognition of its growing profile in innovation, culture, tourism and sustainable development.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, stated this on Monday while receiving the high-level delegation in Calabar, as part of the course’s strategic orientation tour themed “The Orange Economy.”
The Governor said the choice of Cross River for the study tour underscored the state’s reputation as a hub of creative and economic advancement, noting that the Orange Economy was already an integral part of the state’s development trajectory. “Our flagship event, Carnival Calabar and Festivals, is the largest street party in Africa, a vibrant celebration of entertainment, art and culture. We have Tinapa, Obudu Ranch, pristine beaches, a thriving film and music industry, a growing fashion scene, and a youthful population bursting with creative talent,” he stated.
Otu explained that Cross River’s embrace of the Orange Economy had helped diversify its economic base beyond oil while creating opportunities and jobs for young people. He added that the sector promotes the state’s culture globally, attracts tourism revenue, drives digital innovation and strengthens the creative industry value chain.
The Governor described NIPSS as occupying a unique position in Nigeria’s national architecture as the country’s foremost think-tank and highest policy institution, noting that research, policy briefs and alumni from the institute had influenced critical decisions at federal, state and local levels. “We in Cross River State have benefitted immensely from your alumni who are serving in key positions across the country,” he said.
Representing the Governor, Deputy Governor Peter Odey assured the participants of the State Government’s full cooperation throughout the tour, saying their visit would provide an opportunity for mutual learning and exchange of ideas. “We will take your recommendations seriously and domesticate them into our People-First Agenda. We are ready to open our books, our facilities, and our communities to you during this tour,” he said.
Earlier, the Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, commended the resilience of the national institute, which commenced operations in 1989, noting that the institution’s programmes had remained uninterrupted since inception. “This shows that the Nigerian nation can survive,” he said.
Prof. Omotayo explained that the focus on the Orange Economy followed last year’s emphasis on the Marine and Blue Economy, reflecting NIPSS’s commitment to examining diverse sectors capable of driving national development. He identified Cross River’s leadership in tourism, creativity, art and culture as a major reason for selecting the state for the study tour.
The NIPSS Director-General also disclosed that the institute would hold an exhibition in Lagos in October to showcase the outputs and policy recommendations of the course, while commending Cross River for the warm hospitality extended to the participants.
The course comprises high-ranking military personnel and senior public servants from federal and state governments, with the strategic orientation tour designed to expose participants to practical development models and emerging opportunities across different sectors.
The visit culminated in the exchange of souvenirs and group photographs and was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Establishment and Training, Mr. Donatus Ejemot Esu.
By Ukongikwen Adie
