It is no longer a rumor that the Government of Cross River State, under the leadership of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has established a new ministry known as the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM).
The commissioning event was graced by the CEO of the Nigeria in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who commended the Governor for his visionary leadership and also applauded the Governor’s wife Bishop Dr Mrs Eyoanwan Otu, for her commitment to the state’s prosperity.
In her remarks before the official ribbon-cutting, she praised the CRIDCOM Chairman, Prince Otu Okor, describing him as a leader who is not just walking or running, but “flying.” She encouraged him to remain steadfast and assured him of her continuous support for the Commission.
In an interview, Chairman Prince Otu Okor expressed his gratitude to the Governor and his wife for their unwavering support from inception.
He noted that within just three months of inauguration, the Commission has achieved remarkable milestones, including the commissioning of its office all thanks to the Governor’s vision.
During his speech, Prince Otu Okor highlighted his motivation, crediting Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa as his first inspiration. According to him, “When you see good things, you associate with them. Success has association, and that’s where my motivation came from.”
He further revealed that CRIDCOM has lined up several major activities, including the hosting of over 300 diasporans from Caribbean countries between October 10th and 20th. The program will begin in Lagos (October 10th–12th) before moving to Calabar (October 12th–20th).
The essence of the event, he explained, is to reconnect diasporans with their Cross River roots. Many, he said, have lost touch with their state and now feel this is the right time to return, invest, and contribute to the state’s growth especially with the improved infrastructure and welcoming environment created by the present administration.
