By Onwa Ekor
Former Kano governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has lauded Cross River State’s vast farming potential, offering to commit more investment into the sector to inspire the younger generation and foster national development.
Kwankwaso made the remarks during a courtesy visit to Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu at Government House, Calabar.
The former governor who was accompanied by his children during the visit, traced his longstanding ties with Cross River leaders when he earlier served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in 1992, admitting that Cross River’s fertile land and favorable climate make it a natural hub for agribusiness.
He explained that his personal decision to embrace farming after public service was a deliberate step to remain productive while creating sustainable opportunities for future generations.
“I chose to be a farmer because whether you are in office or not, you must have something doing.
“Farming keeps you productive, ensures food security and creates wealth, I am here with my children so they can also see what it means to invest in agriculture,” Kwankwaso informed.
Responding, Otu, represented by the deputy governor, Rt Hon. Peter Odey, welcomed Kwankwaso and his delegation, describing their choice of Cross River as an investment destination, as a step in the right direction.
He highlighted the state government’s agricultural initiatives, including the purchase and distribution of three million oil palm seedlings across all 18 local government areas, the promotion of cocoa and coffee cultivation, and the introduction of wheat farming, a first in southern Nigeria.
“Cross River is very rich in agriculture. Oil palm, cocoa, coffee, and now even wheat are doing well here.
“We have fertile soil, we are the safest sub-national in Nigeria for businesses to thrive, and we pride ourselves on our hospitality. So, you are in the right place to do business and to invest,” Otu said.
He noted that Cross River will host Intra-African Trade Fair in 2026, which will focus on agriculture and investment while positioning the state as a major agricultural hub.
Otu assured Kwankwaso of government’s full support, security, and partnership for any venture he chooses to establish in the state.
