By Abasi Ita
The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, OtuEkong Otu Okor, has launched the Cross Riverians in Diaspora Support Group for Governor Bassey Edet Otu, in a move aimed at strengthening diaspora participation in the state’s development.
The initiative was unveiled at a town hall meeting held at Cross River House in Asokoro, Abuja, where over 60 Cross River indigenes resident in the Federal Capital Territory gathered to engage with government representatives and explore ways of contributing to development efforts back home.
Speaking at the event, Okor described the support group as a structured platform designed to connect Cross Riverians in the diaspora with the state government. He said the initiative would help harness the skills, expertise and resources of citizens living outside the state for meaningful development.
He also conveyed the goodwill of Governor Otu, commending members of the diaspora for projecting a positive image of the state and serving as ambassadors in their various locations. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to key sectors including infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and the oil industry.
Participants at the meeting commended the governor’s leadership and highlighted areas of progress. Mr Tony Ray noted improvements in security and developments in the oil sector, describing them as critical to the state’s growth.
Mr Ibiam Obongho expressed the readiness of Cross Riverians in Abuja to actively support government initiatives, stressing their willingness to contribute to the development of the state.
Also speaking, Mrs Francisca Ogar called for improved communication between the government and citizens, urging regular media interactions with the governor to keep the public adequately informed.
In his opening remarks, President of the Cross River Indigenes Development Association, Dickson Sankara Unung, emphasised the need for unity and collective responsibility among Cross Riverians living in Abuja.
The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by Hon Gabriel Odu, as participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting government programmes and contributing to the overall development of Cross River State.