Cross River State Diaspora Commission

01/05/2026

HAPPY WORKERS’ DAY

On this 1st day of May, 2026, I am pleased to join the global community in commemorating International Workers’ Day, a day set aside to honour the dignity of labour and celebrate the contributions of working men and women everywhere.

To the staff of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), I wish to express my sincere appreciation for your dedication, resilience, and professionalism. Your commitment to the mandate of this Commission remains the bedrock of our progress, and I am grateful for every effort you bring to your duties.

To every worker across Cross River State and Nigeria at large, in public service, in the private sector, in trade, in agriculture, and in every honest vocation, I salute your commitment and your sacrifice. The nation is built on the strength of your labour.

To our Cross Riverians in the diaspora, I recognise and celebrate you on this occasion. Wherever in the world your work has taken you, your industry and excellence continue to bring honour to Cross River State. You are not forgotten.

As we mark this day and welcome the new month of May, I pray that your labour yields its deserved reward, and that this season brings renewed strength, greater opportunities, and continued success to you all.

Happy Workers’ Day and Happy New Month.

OtuEkong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI
Chairman, Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM)

01/05/2026

CRIDCOM Hosts Diaspora Investors as C’River Pushes Multi-Sector Investments, Tinapa Resort and Calabar Seaport Concessioning

As part of efforts to attract investments into Cross River State, the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) has held an interactive session with diaspora investors and key stakeholders in Calabar on proposals covering waste-to-energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and major infrastructure projects, including the Tinapa Resort and Calabar Seaport concessioning.

Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief Dr Otu Okor, FCAI, stated that the engagement reflects the state’s plan to establish long-term partnerships with diaspora investors.

“We are creating ways for diaspora investors to engage more with Cross River. This session is not just about presentations, but about building trust and strong partnerships that will benefit our people,” he said.

A key proposal presented was a waste-to-energy project designed to convert municipal waste into electricity while improving sanitation and public health in the state.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Entec Company, United Kingdom, Philip Springer, who led the investor delegation, said their interest in Cross River is based on partnership, not aid.

“We are not here for handouts. We want to bring the expertise that we possess, bring our resources to the table, and make proper business with our partners here on the ground,” he said.

President/Chief Executive Officer, Oji Califco Consortium Inc., USA, Engr. Augustus Ajawara, said the proposed projects would be technology-driven and developed under structured partnerships, with full technical details to follow.

Other proposals include the redevelopment of Tinapa Resort and Calabar Seaport concessioning, food security initiatives, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and solar energy solutions, with some already backed by international operations.

Stakeholders raised concerns about data accuracy, environmental impact, waste sourcing, and community participation, particularly in relation to sanitation and public health.

Responding, the investors said detailed technical designs, environmental assessments, and implementation frameworks would be developed in collaboration with relevant government agencies, while emphasizing the importance of public engagement for successful delivery.

Providing government feedback, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, engaged the investors on technical issues and project structure. He commended their interest in Cross River State and noted that the state’s peace, cleanliness, and stability make it attractive for investment.

He also assured them of government support for viable projects, while stressing the need for clear documentation, proper planning, and alignment with existing systems for smooth implementation.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

30/04/2026

Diaspora investors, led by Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, Otuekong Chief Dr. Otu Okor, during an inspection tour of Tinapa Business Resort in Calabar.

The delegation toured key facilities including the shopping complex, hotel, cinema, game arcade, water park, and other leisure and commercial infrastructure to assess the site’s current condition and evaluate its potential for redevelopment under proposed concessioning plans.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

29/04/2026

CRIDCOM REPRESENTS CROSS RIVER AT NATIONAL DIASPORA MEETING, PRESENTS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), OtuEkong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI, represented by the Commissioner for Programmes and Events, Evang Dr Mrs Margaret Inde, attended the Meeting of the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters (SCDM) in Abuja, as Cross River State emerged as one of only three states selected to present its diaspora engagement strategy at the national platform.

The selection placed Cross River alongside Abia and Lagos States in a strategic spotlight, reflecting its growing relevance in Nigeria’s evolving diaspora governance architecture and its expanding footprint in diaspora-driven investment and international partnership engagements.

In her presentation, Dr Inde highlighted Cross River State’s diaspora engagement journey since the establishment of CRIDCOM on 13th May 2025, describing it as a deliberate effort to institutionalise global diaspora relations and strengthen the state’s positioning within international development networks.

She noted the hosting of the 4th State Diaspora Focal Point Officers’ Summit, which convened key stakeholders from across Nigeria to strengthen coordination and share practical models for sub-national diaspora engagement.

She further referenced the Cross River State 2025 Diaspora Investment Summit held in London, which attracted investors, professionals, and diaspora stakeholders exploring opportunities across tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, and human capital development.

Also highlighted were the Diaspora Day Celebration and Awards, designed to recognise outstanding contributions of Cross River indigenes abroad, and the launch of the Carnival Calabar Diaspora Band during the 2025 Calabar Carnival Festival, further integrating diaspora participation into the state’s flagship cultural event.

Dr Inde explained that the Commission’s 2026 programme of activities is structured as a consolidation phase aimed at transforming diaspora engagement into measurable investment and development outcomes.

According to her, the initiatives include the global mapping of Cross River diaspora associations to build a unified engagement database, the establishment of a Diaspora Trust Fund to channel diaspora contributions into development projects, and the creation of a Diaspora Estate as part of a long-term investment and housing framework.

She also announced plans for the Cross River State 2026 Diaspora Investment and Business Summit, expected to serve as a high-level platform for investment discussions, project presentations, and strategic partnerships with the global diaspora community.

She reaffirmed that all initiatives align with the “People First” governance philosophy of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, anchored on inclusive growth, international collaboration, and people-driven development.

The SCDM meeting, which reconvened after four years, brought together about 80 participants from federal and state MDAs, civil society organisations, and development partners. It served as a platform for reviewing progress on the implementation of Nigeria’s National Diaspora Policy and strengthening coordination between institutions at all levels of government.

The meeting was convened by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), under the EU-funded Support to Migration Governance in Nigeria project.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

29/04/2026

CRIDCOM, Diaspora Investors Pay Courtesy Visit to Obong of Calabar, Explore Investment Opportunities

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) has led a delegation of diaspora investors from the United Kingdom and the United States on a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Obong of Calabar, as part of efforts to deepen investment ties and cultural reconnection.

Chairman of CRIDCOM, Otuekong Chief Dr Otu Okor, FCAI, who led the delegation, said the visit was to formally introduce the investors to the traditional institution and pay homage before commencing investment engagements in the state.

Okor said the delegation, drawn from Entec Group & Partners (United Kingdom) and Oji Califco Consortium Incorporated (United States), is exploring investment opportunities in agriculture, power, infrastructure and other strategic sectors.

“It would have been a disservice for them to come into the state for investment purposes without first identifying with the Palace, which remains a critical custodian of our culture and heritage,” Okor said.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Entec Group & Partners, Mr Philip Springer, described the visit as symbolic and deeply personal, noting his ancestral connection to Africa through the Caribbean.

Springer recalled his previous visit to the state and said the engagement reflects a continued journey of reconnection and partnership.

“This is not just a visit; it is a continuation of a journey. We are here to build, to partner, and to bring back value in whatever way we can,” Springer said.

He added that the group, which operates across multiple sectors, is focused on long-term investment partnerships.

Springer noted that Entec Group & Partners is exploring co-investment opportunities in the concessioning and revitalisation of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, as well as the development of the Calabar Seaport.

President/Chief Executive Officer of Oji Califco Consortium Inc., Engr Augustus Ajawara, said the consortium is focused on agriculture, infrastructure and power generation.

Ajawara stressed the importance of Public-Private Partnerships, noting that investments in modular power and agriculture would improve food security and service delivery.

He added that the consortium is interested in deploying fast-track solutions to support key institutions such as hospitals, universities and water facilities.

Responding on behalf of the Palace, Etubom Eyo Ndem welcomed the delegation and commended CRIDCOM for recognising the importance of traditional institutions in development processes.

Ndem emphasised the need for partnerships that prioritise sustainability, local impact and respect for cultural identity, while encouraging diaspora investors to strengthen ties with their roots.

He further stressed agriculture as a critical foundation for development, noting that any meaningful investment must address food security and self-sufficiency.

Ndem also referenced Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, stressing that investment ideas must be fully implemented and deliver real results.

He assured the delegation of the Palace’s openness to credible and impactful partnerships.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

28/04/2026

CRIDCOM, C’River Politics on Radio Voices Move to Deepen Grassroots Awareness

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) has partnered with Cross River Politics on Radio Voices on-air personalities to deepen grassroots sensitisation of its programmes.

Chairman of CRIDCOM, Otuekong Chief Dr Otu Okor, FCAI, made this known when he received the media delegation on a courtesy visit at the CRIDCOM office.

Okor described the Commission as a bridge between government initiatives and Cross Riverians in the diaspora, as well as a channel for attracting diaspora contributions back to the State. “What we do, in simple terms, is to take government initiatives to the diaspora and also bring diaspora initiatives back home,” he said.

He outlined key focus areas of the Commission, including diaspora homecoming engagements, trade and investment drives, and recognition of Cross Riverians in the diaspora who have contributed to development in their communities.

According to him, CRIDCOM has continued to build visibility for Cross River globally while strengthening engagement with its people abroad. “We have been able to create visibility and also showcase Cross River to the world, while strengthening relationships with our people in the diaspora,” he added.

Okor clarified that the Commission is not involved in visa facilitation, stressing that it promotes regular and legal migration channels. “We are not a visa agency. We preach against irregular migration and encourage people to follow the proper channels,” he stated.

He further noted that initiatives such as the diaspora housing scheme are aimed at safeguarding investments of Cross Riverians abroad, while ensuring collaboration with relevant agencies for transparency in land administration.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation and Acting Chairman of Cross River Politics on Radio Voices, Alvin Bassey, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Commission to improve public awareness of its activities at the grassroots.

He said many residents are aware of CRIDCOM but still lack a clear understanding of its mandate and operations. “Many people know there is a commission like this, but they don’t really know what it does. Our role is to bridge that gap,” he said.

Bassey added that radio remains a trusted medium of communication among farmers, traders, and rural dwellers who rely heavily on broadcast information.“These are people who don’t have access to social media, but they listen to the radio every day. They believe what they hear,” he noted.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

23/04/2026

CRIDCOM Chairman Charges APC Women Leaders on Unity, Mobilisation

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI, has called on women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Calabar Municipality to prioritise unity, dignity, and effective mobilisation as political activities intensify.

He gave the charge on Thursday while receiving the newly elected executive of APC Women Leaders from Calabar Municipality during a courtesy visit to his office.

Describing the women as critical stakeholders in grassroots politics, the Chairman emphasised the need for alignment with the vision of the state government.

“The season ahead demands unity and purposeful engagement. You must remain focused and ensure that your activities reflect the broader interest of the administration,” he said.

He further assured the delegation of CRIDCOM’s support, noting that the Commission maintains a strong network of diasporans willing to partner with local actors on impactful initiatives.

“We have men and women in the diaspora who are ready to collaborate on programmes that will bring development closer to our people,” he added, while pledging support for mobilisation efforts in their upcoming engagements.

Earlier, the delegation, led by the Calabar Municipality Chapter Woman Leader, Lady Odo Hogan, said the visit was to formally present the new leadership and reaffirm their loyalty and commitment.

She noted that the executive limited the visit to its members on the advice of Calabar Munincipality leadership to avoid overcrowding the office.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance and Accounts in CRIDCOM, Mrs. Emily Maduike, expressed confidence in the leadership of the Chapter Woman Leader, describing her as a committed grassroots mobiliser.

“She has consistently demonstrated capacity and dedication, even without holding a formal position. I am confident she will deliver on this mandate,” she said.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

23/04/2026

21/04/2026

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission joins family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating High Chief Peter Higgins on his special day.
We wish him continued good health, strength, and long life.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SIR.

15/04/2026

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COMMISSIONER PASTOR EYOBONG ITA

On behalf of the Chairman, Otuekong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI, and the entire staff of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), we warmly celebrate our Commissioner for Diaspora Relations and Engagements, Pastor Eyobong Ita, on the occasion of his birthday.

It has been a privilege working alongside a man of faith and purpose. Your contributions to the growth of Cross River State’s diaspora community remain truly commendable.

May this new year of your life be filled with good health, divine favour, and continued fruitfulness.

Happy Birthday, Commissioner!

14/04/2026

BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS

On behalf of the Chairman, Otuekong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI, and the entire staff of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), we warmly celebrate our Hon. Commissioner for Programs and Events, Evang. Hon. Dr. (Mrs.) Margaret U. Inde, on the occasion of her birthday.

May this milestone usher in a season of new heights, divine favour, and boundless grace.

Happy Birthday, Hon. Commissioner!