By: Joe Ephraim, Calabar
The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Chief Otu Okor, has launched a strategic diaspora support platform in Abuja aimed at mobilising Cross Riverians outside the state to actively contribute to governance and development under Governor.
The initiative, unveiled at a Town Hall meeting, brought together no fewer than 62 Cross River indigenes resident in the Federal Capital Territory.
Describing the platform as a bridge between government and its citizens in the diaspora, Okor said the group would serve as a coordinated channel to harness the expertise, investments and influence of Cross Riverians living outside the state.
“The Cross Riverians in Diaspora Support Group is designed to bring our people closer to government, harness their skills and resources, and channel them towards the development of our dear state,” he stated.
He also conveyed the goodwill of Governor Otu, commending diaspora members for projecting the image of the state positively and reaffirming the administration’s focus on critical sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and the oil industry.
Stakeholders at the forum lauded the governor’s leadership, pointing to what they described as tangible gains in key sectors. Among them, Mr Tony Ray highlighted improvements in security and progress in the oil sector, describing them as vital to economic growth.
Also speaking, Ibiam Obongho reiterated the readiness of Cross Riverians in Abuja to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development, while Francisca Ogar called for sustained engagement between the governor and citizens through regular media interactions to enhance transparency and information flow.
In his opening remarks, President of the Cross River Indigenes Development Association (CRIDA), Chief Dickson Sankara Unung, stressed the need for unity and collective responsibility among indigenes, urging them to align with ongoing development efforts.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting government initiatives and strengthening diaspora participation in the socio-economic advancement of Cross River State.
