—- Lekan
By Onwa Ekor
The President of Cross Riverians in Diaspora (CRID), Mr. Christopher Lekan, says the collaboration between CRID and the Cross River Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), would harmonise the competences and skills of the citizens for the development of the State.
Lekan stated this at the unveiling of Cross River Diaspora Commission and its logo, held at Hogis Royale Banquet hall in Calabar.
According to CRID President, “the establishment of CRIDCOM is coming at a time when Cross Riverians in the diaspora under CRID are ready, willing and available to collaborate with the progressive visions and programs of the governor, Prince Bassey Otu.
He noted that CRIDCOM represents a platform for effective organization, management and representation of Cross River citizens in the diaspora.
“We want to use this event to assure our governor, of our organization’s unwavering support and collaboration with Cross River government through CRIDCOM.
“We commend Otu for the vision to establish CRIDCOM as it is a clear demonstration of his commitment in harnessing the potentials of Cross River community in the diaspora for the progress of our state.
“We also assure CRIDCOM of our resolve to collaborate in ensuring that the state government and the Commission, achieve its objectives,” the CRID President remarked.
Lekan used the opportunity to invite the governor to the maiden edition of CRID convention scheduled for August 1-3, 2025, at the United kingdom, where he pointed out that, “Cross Riverians who have distinguished themselves in various areas of endeavour will be celebrated.”
The Chief of Mission for Nigeria, International Organization for Migration, Ms Dimanche Sharon, remarked that her organization will continue to support the Commission as the diaspora community represents the future in sustenance development, bearers of knowledge, investment and international networks.
CRIDCOM chairman, Prince Otu Okor, assured that his team remains committed to creating a platform that will facilitate collaboration, investment and knowledge sharing between the state and the diaspora community.
Declaring the event open, the governor, Prince Bassey Otu, maintained that setting up the Commission was imminent for the state to annex the potentials of CrossRiverians in diaspora.
Otu who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey said: “Today, we are opening our doors for that partnership, opening our doors in healthcare, agriculture, mining, education and technology.”
He added that “CRID will no longer be just a member in diaspora but we are challenging them to bring investment to Cross River as this is the only state in Nigeria that you can be sure of security.”
