After Weeks Of Diaspora Engagements, Governor Otu Says Cross River On The Rise
By Uket Oka, Calabar
The Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu, has declared that the state is on the upward trajectory following weeks of strategic engagements with Cross Riverians in the Diaspora.
Otu stated this while speaking to journalists shortly on arrival at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, Saturday from attending a convention of Cross River Indigenes In the Diaspora (CRID) in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
He said the meetings with the diaspora community were aimed at strengthening 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 US; we had a good 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 prospects. Cross River is on the proper track, and there is no stopping it,” the Governor stated.
Otu stressed that his administration was focused on consolidating the “building blocks” of development before politics takes centre stage.
He noted that the state has already recorded gains in GDP growth, job creation, and improvements across key sectors such as health, education agriculture and infrastructure.
“Every sector you look at, we have added value,” Otu said, adding that the next quarter of the year would bring even greater improvements as opportunities are maximized.
On receiving the prestigious Mayor of Birmingham’s Award during his trip, the Governor said the honour was for all Cross Riverians, reflecting the respect the state now commands internationally.
“It adds to the building blocks of where we are taking the state,” he said.
Also speaking, Cross River State First Lady, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Otu, said her engagements with women in the diaspora had rekindled hopes for increased collaboration in areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
“There’s hope that our people abroad will come home more frequently to synergize, mentor, and support initiatives like girl-child education and improved health facilities,” Mrs Otu said.
The First Lady noted that many diaspora women were eager to return, encouraged by the state’s improved security and governance, and have already scheduled a December homecoming.
“I can’t wait to see December; it is going to be wow,” she enthused.
DAYLIGHT REPORTERS gathered that, 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.