Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has raised concerns over the escalating humanitarian pressure on Cross River State due to the continued influx of refugees, particularly from neighboring Cameroon, stressing the need for urgent international support.
The Governor made the appeal on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria, Ms. Dimanche Sharon, at the State Executive Council Chambers in Calabar.
Governor Otu disclosed that Cross River is currently hosting over 50,000 refugees, a figure he described as overwhelming for the state’s limited resources and infrastructure.
“Migration may come with global opportunities, but for us in Cross River, it presents a significant humanitarian and economic strain,” the Governor said. “We are a people of compassion, but our capacity to cope is being stretched thin.”
He emphasized that the situation is increasingly unsustainable and called for greater collaboration from international agencies like the IOM and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). He specifically requested support in refugee management, psychosocial services, data collection, and border coordination.
Governor Otu also highlighted the state’s peaceful disposition and untapped investment potential, calling for a shift in narrative.
“Cross River is one of the most peaceful and socially organized states in Nigeria. We are ready to work with global partners to transform our migration challenges into development opportunities,” he added.
He welcomed IOM’s interest in collaborating with the newly established Cross River State Diaspora Commission, expressing optimism about co-developing a robust migration and refugee response strategy anchored on data, technology, and sustainable financing.
In her remarks, Ms. Dimanche Sharon commended the Governor for his leadership and the hospitality extended to migrants and development partners alike.
“We need to reframe the story of Nigeria, and especially places like Cross River,” she said. “What I have seen here is diversity, peace, and incredible promise. The world needs to hear this version.”
Ms. Sharon reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to strengthening its presence and operational support in Cross River, identifying key areas of collaboration including displacement tracking, anti-human trafficking, border management, and diaspora engagement for community development.
“We are excited to work with your government to design a flagship migration response tailored to Cross River’s unique realities,” she said. “With data-driven planning, private sector participation, and diaspora investment, we can build a model for others to emulate.”
She noted that the IOM currently operates in 25 states across Nigeria and would prioritize deeper engagement in Cross River given its strategic position, growing migration pressures, and progressive governance outlook.
The visit signals renewed momentum in the partnership between Cross River State and international migration stakeholders, as both sides look to balance humanitarian response with long-term development goals.
