Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has assured Holcim Cement, which has taken over ownership of Lafarge Africa PLC, of his administration’s support in providing an enabling environment for investment growth in the state.
 
The governor gave the assurance while receiving a high-powered delegation of the cement giants in Calabar, where he welcomed the company’s expanded global capacity and renewed commitment to the state.
 
Otu, expressing delight over the visit, said the long-standing relationship between Cross River and Lafarge had strengthened confidence and must be built upon.

He commended the company for its corporate social responsibility interventions, noting that such efforts had benefitted host communities and improved livelihoods.
 
“We have come a long way together. What excites me most is that, beyond cement, you are now bringing additional investments in areas such as waste management and infrastructure. This marriage will be a strong one, and I assure you that Cross River is safe, stable, and open for business,” Otu said.
 
The governor pledged the government’s readiness to synergise with Holcim in infrastructure development, including jetties, terminals, and other projects. He emphasised that the state’s natural endowments and ongoing development plans made it a prime destination for global investors.
 
Otu, while commending the delegation, expressed optimism that the partnership would open new frontiers of growth, job creation, and prosperity in line with his administration’s People First agenda.
 
The Vice President of Holcim Cement, Mr Xu Gang, in his remarks, reaffirmed the company’s resolve to deepen its investments in Nigeria, particularly in Cross River.