Cross Rivers State Governor, Bassey Otu, has urged indigenes in the diaspora to invest in the state’s development and sustainability. He made the call at the maiden edition of the Diaspora Convention held in Birmingham, United Kingdom, with the theme: “Diaspora Contribution to the Development and Sustainability of Cross River State.”

The governor, in a statement yesterday, stressed that the state needed the diaspora community’s involvement in policy shaping, investments, healthcare, education, and mentorship. He announced the creation of a Diaspora Engagement and Development Desk to facilitate collaboration and diaspora-led projects across key sectors.

According to Otu, the diaspora communities are not outsiders, but stakeholders and architects of Cross River’s future, urging them to come home, not just to visit, but to build and contribute to the state’s development. He said: “This government is not only about those at home, it is about all our people, everywhere.”

The talents, capital, and experiences you have acquired abroad must find expression back home. Come, invest in your state, build in your communities, and help us to write a story of sustainable transformation.”

The President of the Cross River State Diaspora Forum, Mr Christopher Lekan, hailed the event as “the rebirth of a long-silenced but powerful voice.” He commended the governor for “breaking the jinx of detachment and building a new bridge of inclusion.”