By Onwa Ekor
The President of CrossRiverians in the Diaspora (CRID), Amb. Christopher Lekan, has applauded the former governors of Cross River and Rivers, Chiefs Clement Ebri and Rufus Ada George, for gracing the organisation’s regional convention in Ontario, California.
Lekan in his inaugural speech shortly after being inaugurated for a second term in office, stated that the duo did not only attend the event but contributed immensely to the success of the program which attracted several CrossRiverians across North America.
Soliciting the collective support of members through meaningful contribution for the sustainable development of the state and improved welfare of CrossRiverians across the world, the CRID President, reassured that the future of the Forum remains bright with a clear vision.
Unveiling his package for the second term in office, Lekan disclosed that the organisation would expand educational scholarship to primary and secondary schools, commence and expand the statewide borehole programme and sustain farmers support programs including health outreach initiatives.
He added that it will establish a modern healthcare facility that would be supported by Diaspora medical professionals and virtual healthcare services, as well as, organise information technology training to equip youths with globally relevant digital skills including catering for the welfare of CRID members worldwide.
Tracing memory lane, the new president recalled that CRID which started with 12 members was established in 2020 by patriotic sons and daughters of Cross River living abroad, registered in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and with the Corporate Affairs
Commission of Nigeria.
Lekan who remarked that CRID will establish an estate to provide affordable, secure and retirement-friendly housing for
Cross Riverians living abroad, thanked members for all the support he received during his first tenure.
It would be recalled that the new executive committee was inaugurated through zoom under the watchful eyes of the Chairman, Electoral Committee, Dr. Justin Udie, while Barr. Michael Nkwam administered the oath of office on members who are billed to pilot the affairs of CRID from 2026 to 2029.
The new executives are Amb. Christopher Lekan ( President), Prof. Josephine Etowa (vice president), Barr. Iseone Lawal ( Secretary General), and Mr Kevin Osim who clinched the position of assistant secretary.
Others are, Paulinus Onah as treasurer, Idagu Odey as project coordinator, Deborah Inyang as Public and membership relations officer as well as Dr Esu Ezeani who bagged the financial Secretaryship portfolio.
