Gov Otu returns from Diaspora engagements, says Cross River on the rise

Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has declared that the state is on the upward trajectory following weeks of strategic engagements with Cross River citizens in the Diaspora.

Speaking to journalists at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, upon his return on Friday from attending a convention of Cross River Indigenes in the Diaspora (CRID) in Birmingham, Governor Otu 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,” he said.

The governor 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 maximised.

On receiving the prestigious Mayor of Birmingham’s Award during his trip, Governor Otu 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, the First Lady, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey 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 synergise, mentor, and support initiatives like girl-child education and improved health facilities,” she 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.

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.

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