Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has called on indigenes in the diaspora to reconnect with their homeland, invest in its future, and embrace their role as co-architects of the state’s development.
Speaking at the maiden Cross River Diaspora Convention in Birmingham, United Kingdom, themed: “Diaspora Contribution to the Development and Sustainability of Cross River State,” Governor Otu described the gathering as both symbolic and strategic.
“The bridge home has finally been built, and I, your governor, have come to walk across it with you,” he said.
He emphasised that under his People First’s mantra, the state is creating formal pathways for diaspora participation in policy shaping, education, healthcare, and economic development.
The Governor also announced the creation of a Diaspora Engagement and Development Desk to fast-track collaborations and facilitate investments across sectors.
“You are not mere observers of Cross River’s destiny; you are stakeholders and co-builders. From Obudu’s rolling hills to Bakassi’s coastal hopes, we need your hands, your hearts, and your hopes,” he added.
Addressing the gathering, the First Lady of Cross River, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu implored women in the diaspora to play leading roles in advancing maternal health and girl-child education across the state.
“Every Cross River girl deserves a global sister looking out for her,” she said, emphasising the importance of mentorship and advocacy from successful women abroad.
In a key note address, renowned activist and human rights lawyer, Papa DC Enamhe, charged Cross Riverians everywhere to adopt the “Think Cross River” mindset.
Enamhe commended governor Otu for backing the agitation for the creation of Ogoja state, calling it a rare act of visionary leadership.
“He is not clinging to territory; he is promoting balanced development. That is true leadership,” he stated.
Enamhe also appealed to Cross Riverians in the diaspora to rise above politics and embody the state’s core values of decency, hospitality, and excellence.
“Our people abroad export our identity. Let your success echo with the pride of your roots,” he said.
He further called for urgent peacebuilding initiatives, especially in communities affected by longstanding disputes between the Ukelle and Izzi people, and the Obudu and Tiv, as well as the creation of buffer zones to enhance security in volatile areas.
President of the Cross River Diaspora Forum, Christopher Lekam, described the convention as “a rebirth of a once-muted but powerful voice.”
Lekam disclosed plans to launch a Diaspora Investment Fund targeting healthcare, ICT, and youth enterprise.
“We want to move from the margins into the mainstream of development,” he stated.
Veteran statesman Chief (Dr.) Asuquo Ekpenyong praised the governor’s diaspora-inclusive approach and called for long-term strategic partnerships between the state government and Cross Riverians abroad.
The event also commemorated Governor Otu’s humanitarian gesture in facilitating the return and burial of former Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas, whose remains had been stranded in a UK morgue.
According to Enamhe, the act “reflects a governor who values dignity above region or tribe.”
With high-level participation from members of the governor’s cabinet, notable, the Chief of Staff, Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, Information Commissioner, Dr Erasmus Ekpang, local government leaders, and Cross Riverians from Europe, North America, and Africa, the Birmingham convention concluded with a unified message: “Whether at home or abroad, Think Cross River.”
Otu also received an honorary award from Birmingham Mayor, Zafar Iqbal, in recognition of his pan-Cross River leadership style.