Cross River govt, UNICEF unveil 10-year economic development plan

Cross River state government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has introduced the State Development Plan (SDP) to tackle the unique challenges in the state, enhance the welfare of the residents and foster long-lasting, fair, and comprehensive progress and advancement.

Tribune Online reports that UNICEF Nigeria has agreed to assist Cross River State Governments in developing State Development Plans (SDPs) that align with the National Development Plan/Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), the Human Capital Development Vision 2030, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to the significant role played by States and Local Governments in delivering essential social services.

The general objective of the SDP which spans from 2024 to 2033 is to produce a gender human right based and risk, informed as well as a result based development plan for Cross River State that is in sync with the people’s first Mantra of Governor Prince Edet Otu.

In his welcome speech, Dr. Bong Duke, the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, explained that implementing the SDP would help the government effectively integrate market forces, utilize local and foreign resources, and encourage a positive mindset among the people for decentralized state development.

While commending UNICEF for their technical support to develop this Plan and for supporting development efforts in the State, he expressed the Commission’s commitment to ensure effective local governance, improve service delivery and strengthen collaboration across development partners and other sectors.

Juliet Chiluwe, UNICEF Enugu, Chief Field Officer in her remarks stated that this plan would set the state on the path to achieving its vision of a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable economy promoted by good governance to foster human dignity in a clean and green environment.

“We are positive that the development plan if adequately implemented will enhance the sustainable development efforts of the state.

“As UNICEF, we are prepared to continue supporting the state towards the achievement of the strategic results of the SDP and other national and global priorities, as we are committed to strengthen the already existing collaboration with the good people of Cross River state, she asserted.

The unveiling of the Cross River Development Plan was led by Governor Bassey Otu, with Deputy Governor Peter Odey representing him. The plan aims to bring about a prosperous, equitable, and lasting economy in Cross River state by 2033.

“The present SDP is unique in the sense that it aligns with national and global looks of the human capital development vision of 2030 and the SDG. It is expected that the SDP will effectively provide the roadmap for driving sustainable development.

“As a government our administration is committed to to formulating people oriented policies and programs that will promote better living conditions for the citizens.”

The event was attended by members of the executive council, CSOs and NGOs.

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