CROSS RIVER STATE DIASPORA COMMISSION (CRIDCOM)

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission aims to connect Cross Riverians living abroad with State policies and development projects.

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CRIDCOM Chairman Invited as Guest of Honour for Weekend Politics’ 5th Anniversary Conference

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, DrIMALE, has been invited to serve as Guest of Honour at the 5th Anniversary Political Conference of Weekend Politics, a political discourse programme on CRBC TV, and has pledged his support towards the success of the event.

Receiving the invitation during a courtesy visit by the programme’s production crew to the Commission’s office in Calabar, the CRIDCOM Chairman expressed appreciation for the honour, describing Weekend Politics as a credible platform that has consistently enriched political discourse and promoted democratic ideals in Cross River State.

“I am deeply honoured by this invitation and commend the Weekend Politics team for sustaining a programme that continues to educate, inform and stimulate meaningful conversations on governance and development. Initiatives like this strengthen democratic participation, and I look forward to contributing to a successful conference,” he said.

Chief Okor reaffirmed CRIDCOM’s commitment to collaborating with individuals and organisations whose initiatives support the socio-economic development of the state, adding that the Commission will continue to leverage diaspora engagement in advancing the People First agenda of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

Earlier, leader of the delegation, Pastor Joseph Inyang, Compere to His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, and Presenter of Weekend Politics, said the visit was to formally invite the CRIDCOM Chairman to serve as Guest of Honour at the programme’s 5th Anniversary Political Conference.

According to him, the conference is being organised to commemorate five years of promoting constructive political discourse, civic engagement and democratic education in Cross River State. He noted that the event, themed “X-Raying the Political Journey of Cross River State and the Future Assured,” will bring together public office holders, policymakers, political leaders, media practitioners, academics, development partners and other stakeholders.

The conference is scheduled to hold on Thursday, 30 July 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Hogis Luxury Suites, 7 Akim Close, State Housing Estate, Calabar.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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CRIDCOM Chair Earns Salvation Army Award of Selfless Service

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, DrIMALE, has been recognised with the Salvation Army Cross River District Award of Selfless Service in recognition of his outstanding service, unwavering dedication, and commitment to humanity.

Chief Okor was presented with the award during the Salvation Army Founder’s Day celebration held in Calabar. Responding to the recognition, he expressed profound appreciation to the Salvation Army, describing it as one of the most meaningful honours he has received.

“No award is greater than one given by the Church,” he said. “If the church found you worthy, definitely the society will find you worthy too.”

He dedicated the award to His Excellency, Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for the opportunity to serve the people of Cross River State, and to his late mother and family for their unwavering support and prayers.

As Chairman of CRIDCOM, Chief Okor has continued to champion Governor Otu’s People First agenda by engaging Cross Riverians in the diaspora to attract foreign direct investment, facilitate knowledge transfer, and foster strategic partnerships that support the state's development.

Presenting the award, the Salvation Army described the recognition as a testament to Chief Okor’s hard work, selfless service, and positive impact on Cross Riverians both at home and in the diaspora. The citation on the award plaque commended his “unwavering dedication, tireless efforts and selfless commitment to Humanity and the Kingdom’s advancement.”

The Founder’s Day celebration brought together clergy, government officials, and members of the Salvation Army from across the Cross River District.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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HAPPY NEW MONTH & WELCOME TO THE 2ND HALF OF 2026

To our dear Cross Riverians, at home and in the Diaspora,

Welcome to July, and welcome to the 2nd half of the year!

As we step into the second half of 2026, I pray that this new month ushers in fresh strength, renewed hope, and greater opportunities for every son and daughter of our beloved Cross River State.

To those at home: May this season bring increased productivity, peace in our communities, and visible progress under the “People’s First” Agenda.
To our brothers and sisters abroad: Your contributions, prayers, and love for Cross River continue to inspire us. May your endeavours in foreign lands be fruitful, and may the second half of the year bring you good tidings, open doors, and safe return whenever you desire to come home.

Let us carry the values of unity, hard work, faith, and compassion that define us as Cross Riverians into the next six months. Together, we will make the remaining part of the year our best yet.

From all of us at the Cross River State Diaspora Commission – CRIDCOM, we wish you a blessed July and a prosperous 2nd half of 2026.

[CROSS RIVER STATE DIASPORA COMMISSION (CRIDCOM) @cridcom]

PRESS RELEASE

THIRD BATCH OF EVACUATED NIGERIANS ARRIVES IN LAGOS FROM SOUTH AFRICA; CRIDCOM CHAIRMAN AMONG OFFICIALS PRESENT

Calabar, Cross River State — July 1st, 2026

The third batch of stranded Nigerians evacuated from South Africa arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at approximately 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday aboard an Air Peace flight carrying 270 returnees.

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, was in Lagos, alongside officials from Federal and State government agencies, as well as private organisations, to welcome the returnees.

“The safe return of Nigerians from South Africa reflects the kind of citizen-centred governance that diaspora commissions across the federation are mandated to support and amplify at the State level,” he said.

Profiling of the returnees is currently underway to determine the number of Cross Riverians among them, to facilitate appropriate state-level support and reintegration.

The evacuation exercise was approved and funded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as part of the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad. It follows two earlier evacuations: 258 Nigerians on June 11 and 66 returnees on June 25, the latter facilitated by the Chairman/CEO of ValueJet, Otunba Kunle Soname.

Officials of the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa accompanied the returnees, who expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Temitope (Alexander) Ajayi, and the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

Speaking on behalf of the NiDCOM Chairman, Mr Dipo Onabowale commended President Tinubu’s leadership and noted that logistical challenges encountered during the initial evacuation are being addressed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.

Reintegration support extended to the returnees included a ₦1,000,000 grant for each Imo State indigene, courtesy of Governor Hope Uzodinma, and a package from MTN Nigeria comprising a free SIM pack valued at ₦50,000, along with a ₦100,000 credit to each returnee’s account.

Officials of NEMA, the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, the Nigeria Immigration Service, FAAN, and relevant security agencies were on hand to receive, document, and assist the returnees.

E-signed:
Deborah-Oyo Ekpo Oyo
IPRO
CRIDCOM

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As we mark Democracy Day, I join every Nigerian, both at home and in the diaspora, to commemorate 27 years of democratic governance and reaffirm our hope for a stronger, more united Nigeria.

Happy Democracy Day, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, DrIMALE
Chairman, Cross River State Diaspora Commission

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CRIDCOM Backs Echos of HWOSA Publication, Seeks Stronger Collaboration

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission has expressed support for the Echos of HWOSA Class of 1989 (Int’l) publication, describing it as a credible legacy media initiative with the potential to promote storytelling, education, and diaspora engagement.

Chairman of the Commission, Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, made this known whilst receiving a delegation from the publication, noting that the initiative represents a meaningful platform for preserving institutional memory and projecting positive narratives about Cross Riverians.

Okor emphasised the importance of credible identity-driven platforms and warned against the misuse of the state’s name for fraudulent activities, stressing that all initiatives associated with Cross River must reflect integrity and positive impact.

He said the publication aligns with the Commission’s broader objective of strengthening connections between Cross Riverians at home and abroad, noting that credible platforms for information sharing and documentation play an important role in fostering engagement and preserving collective history.

The Chairman further encouraged the Echos of HWOSA team to take the publication beyond its current unveiling to a full public launch with broader stakeholder participation, to enhance the publication’s visibility and impact. “Do not just push it out quietly. Get the right people involved and give it a proper launch,” he said.

During the presentation session, the Editor-in-Chief of Echos of HWOSA, Mr Julius Ephraim, outlined the vision of the publication, which began as a newsletter and is evolving into a full magazine and new media platform. He noted that the publication is designed to document Cross River culture, events, governance, and the activities of notable individuals and institutions across the state.

He proposed stronger collaboration between the publication and the Commission, including the periodic coverage of diaspora-related stories and activities to enhance communication between the Commission and the public.

Also speaking, the Global Coordinator, Deacon (Hon.) Archibong Edem Edem Orok, emphasised the international outlook of the publication and its goal of connecting alumni and stakeholders across borders. “Our vision is to build a platform that keeps our members connected, celebrates their achievements, and preserves our collective legacy for generations to come,” he said.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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PRESS RELEASE

CRIDCOM STANDS WITH CROSS RIVERIAN RETURNEES AS FIRST BATCH ARRIVES FROM SOUTH AFRICA THURSDAY

CALABAR, CROSS RIVER STATE – JUNE 10, 2026

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) is working to ensure the smooth reception and reintegration of Cross Riverian indigenes among the first batch of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa, who are expected to land in Lagos on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at approximately 5:00 a.m.

The repatriation exercise is being coordinated at the federal level by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and is fully funded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration through payments made to Air Peace for the flights. Between 600 and 1,000 returnees are expected in the first batch, with Cross River State indigenes confirmed among them.

Speaking on the development, Chairman of CRIDCOM, Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, said: “Our people are coming home and we will be there for them. CRIDCOM is working closely with NIDCOM and the Cross River State Government to ensure that every returnee from Cross River State is received with dignity and given a clear path to reintegrate into society.”

CRIDCOM reaffirms its dedication to the welfare of Cross Riverians in the diaspora and will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.

E-signed.
Deborah-Oyo Ekpo Oyo
Information/Public Relations Officer
Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Calabar.

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CRIDCOM Chairman Calls for Deliberate Investment in Young Leaders

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, has called for deliberate investment in children and young people, stressing that leadership development must begin early if society hopes to build a future anchored on integrity, innovation, and service.

Okor made the call while serving as the Special Guest of Honour at the 5th edition of Unveiling the Leaders, a Children's Day celebration organised by the Efik Leadership Foundation, under the theme "Voices of the Future – Raising Leaders Today."

According to him, leadership should not be viewed as something reserved for adulthood or public office, noting that children are already demonstrating leadership qualities through their everyday choices and actions.

"For too long, we have spoken about children as the leaders of tomorrow in a way that pushes their influence into a distant future. Leadership begins the moment a child chooses honesty over cheating, courage over silence, and service over self," he said.

The CRIDCOM Chairman noted that young people participating in activities such as debates, poetry recitals, and innovation presentations were already demonstrating leadership in practice by contributing ideas, solving problems, and positively influencing their communities.

He commended the Efik Leadership Foundation for sustaining the initiative over the past five years, describing the programme as an important platform for identifying, nurturing, and celebrating future leaders while preserving values and cultural heritage.

Okor also urged parents, teachers, mentors, traditional institutions, government, and the private sector to work together in creating opportunities that will enable children to develop their talents and reach their full potential.

Emphasising that recognition must be backed by meaningful support, he called for increased access to mentorship, resources, and platforms that would help young people grow into responsible and impactful leaders.

The event featured the unveiling and recognition of outstanding young participants, with the CRIDCOM Chairman commended for his charge to the young participants to embrace leadership with humility, courage, and a commitment to service, reminding them that their voices matter and that the future of Cross River State, Nigeria, and the world will be shaped by the choices they make today.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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CRIDCOM Chairman Receives FAHUF, Commends Education-Focused Efforts

The Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Otuekong Chief Dr Otu Okor, FCAI, has commended a youth-led humanitarian group, the Fatherland Humanitarian Foundation, for its interest in community development and education-focused interventions.

He gave the commendation while receiving members of the foundation on a courtesy visit to his office, where he acknowledged their proposed “Back to School” initiative aimed at supporting children from low-income backgrounds.

The Chairman noted that the Commission operates within defined programmes and annual work plans but remains open to engagements that align with its mandate, particularly in education and youth development.

He encouraged the group to properly structure their proposal and continue engagement with the Commission for possible areas of synergy where their activities complement existing programmes.

“As a Commission, we operate within a structured plan, but we are open to ideas and initiatives that align with our mandate and ongoing programmes,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the team, Joy Augustine, who also serves as the leader of the Fatherland Humanitarian Foundation, said the organisation is a non-governmental initiative focused on supporting widows, orphans, indigent persons, and other vulnerable groups through education and social intervention programmes.

She explained that the foundation’s “Back to School” initiative seeks to provide tuition assistance and basic educational support for children and young adults from low-income families, with the aim of reducing school dropout rates.

The group also sought guidance and possible collaboration with the Commission, noting that partnerships with institutions could help strengthen their outreach and impact.

The engagement featured a symbolic presentation of a lapel pin to the Chairman as a token of appreciation for his time and acknowledgment of the foundation’s visit.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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CRS Diaspora Commission Receives NSCPM Delegation, Accepts Invitation to June 5 Inauguration

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) has received a delegation of the North South Central Political Movement of Nigeria, who were on a courtesy visit to present an official invitation for the group’s inauguration scheduled for June 5, 2026, in Calabar.

The Chairman of the Commission, Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, welcomed the delegation and acknowledged receipt of the invitation.

He said the administration of Governor Bassey Otu had recorded notable achievements within a relatively short period in office, adding that residents across the state had continued to benefit from government policies, appointments and development initiatives.

Okor also sought clarification on the alignment of NSCPM with existing political support structures, stressing the importance of proper coordination and structured engagement among groups operating within the political space.

He confirmed acceptance of the invitation and assured the delegation of the Commission’s participation at the inauguration, while pledging continued engagement with stakeholders ahead of the event.

“We appreciate your visit and the invitation extended to the Commission. We will be part of the inauguration and will continue to engage stakeholders to ensure proper coordination and inclusive participation in activities of this nature,” he said.

Speaking during the visit, the Secretary General of NSCPM, Comrade Sampson Ikpeme, said the visit was to formally notify the Commission and extend an invitation for the inauguration ceremony.

Ikpeme said the movement serves as an umbrella platform bringing together support groups across the country aligned with the administration of Governor Bassey Otu, noting that it currently coordinates about 394 support groups nationwide.

He explained that NSCPM was established to strengthen coordination among support groups and provide a structured platform for collective mobilisation and engagement.

In response to the Chairman’s concerns, Ikpeme assured that NSCPM operates in collaboration with recognised political structures and remains committed to organised mobilisation in support of the administration.

He added that the inauguration would provide an opportunity to deepen unity among support groups and improve coordination of activities.

The inauguration is expected to attract political stakeholders, support group leaders and supporters from within and outside Cross River State.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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Birthday Message to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey
Deputy Governor, Cross River State

Your Excellency,

On this special day, I join family, friends, and the good people of Cross River State to celebrate you and the life of service you lead.

Your commitment to the “People First” agenda and your steady support for purposeful leadership continue to inspire many of us who believe in a Cross River that works for everyone. From the grassroots to the corridors of governance, your presence is felt, and your contributions do not go unnoticed.

As you mark another year, my prayer is that God grants you renewed strength, wisdom, good health, and joy. May the years ahead bring you greater impact, peace of mind, and the fulfillment of every good plan for Cross River and its people.

Happy Birthday, Your Excellency. Have a wonderful celebration.

Warm regards, Your Excellency

OtuEkong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, DrIMALE
Chairman
Cross River State Diaspora Commission

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3 YEARS OF PURPOSEFUL LEADERSHIP

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) joins all Cross Riverians at home and in the diaspora in celebrating His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, as he marks his 3rd year anniversary as Executive Governor of Cross River State. What a journey it has been!

Under his “PEOPLE FIRST MANTRA,” Cross River State has witnessed remarkable transformation across every sector:

Full reconstruction of the Governor’s Office, Government House, and the Local Government Service Commission Complex

Completion of the Cross River State Library Complex with a modern ICT Hub

Revitalization of Primary Healthcare Centres statewide with the employment of Medical Doctors and Nurses for effective healthcare delivery

Launch of Operation Okwok and renovation of all military and paramilitary formations to secure the state for business and tourism

Procurement of tractors and farm implements to boost mechanized agriculture, and establishment of a large-scale coffee farm

Reclamation of Tinapa Business Resort, Obudu Mountain Resort, and the Metropolitan Hotel

Expansion of the Cally Air fleet with additional aircraft

Massive road construction and rehabilitation across urban and rural communities statewide

Revitalization of the Calabar Carnival as an economic and cultural powerhouse

Active progress on the Bakassi Deep Seaport Project

And this is only the beginning. Three years of bold, purposeful governance has laid a solid foundation for an even greater Cross River State. With so much already delivered and so much more on the horizon, we look forward with excitement and confidence to the continued transformation of our dear state under Your Excellency’s visionary leadership. The story of Cross River State is still being written, and the best chapters are yet to come.

Congratulations, Your Excellency!

Otuekong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI, DrIMALE
Chairman, Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM)

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The Cross River State Diaspora Commission joyfully felicitates with our distinguished Chairman, Otuekong Chief Otu Okor, FCAI, DRIMALE, on the occasion of his birthday.

Your leadership continues to reflect clarity of purpose, accessibility, and an uncommon commitment to building a responsive and results-driven institution. You have not only guided the Commission with diligence but have also strengthened collaboration, trust, and a shared sense of direction among staff and stakeholders.

As you celebrate your birthday alongside your first anniversary in office, we recognise and appreciate a year defined by steady progress and purposeful service.

May this new year of your life bring fresh vitality, deeper wisdom, sound health, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

Happy Birthday, Sir, and congratulations on a remarkable first year of impactful service.

— From all of us at CRIDCOM.

[CROSS RIVER STATE DIASPORA COMMISSION (CRIDCOM) @cridcom]

CRIDCOM Marks One-Year Anniversary, Reflects on Growth and Milestones

The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) has marked its one-year anniversary with a celebration highlighting its journey, achievements, and institutional growth since inception.

Speaking during the event, Chairman of the Commission reflected on the establishment of CRIDCOM, from its inauguration to the commissioning of its office, noting key milestones and activities recorded within its first year of operation. He commended staff for their dedication and commitment, describing their contributions as central to the progress of the Commission.

According to him, “The progress we have recorded within this short period is a reflection of teamwork, dedication, and shared vision. I sincerely appreciate the commitment of all staff, and I remain optimistic that we will achieve even greater milestones ahead.”

The anniversary celebration brought together management, staff, and invited guests, and also featured goodwill messages from staff members, Heads of Departments, Commissioners, and a representative of Zenith Bank, who all congratulated the Commission on its first year and commended its leadership.

The event also included an interactive ballot-based teaser session, where participants responded to questions on the Commission’s history, activities, and achievements, with winners rewarded with cash prizes.

The celebration provided an opportunity for reflection and engagement as CRIDCOM marked its first year of operations and reaffirmed its commitment to diaspora engagement and development-focused initiatives in Cross River State.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2026

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Congratulations to all of us at CRIDCOM🎉

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CRIDCOM Celebrates One Year of Diaspora Engagement, Investment Promotion and Cultural Integration
https://t.co/LeB87Yq5vl

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HAPPY WORKERS’ DAY

On this 1st day of May, 2026, I am pleased to join the global community in commemorating International Workers’ Day, a day set aside to honour the dignity of labour and celebrate the contributions of working men and women everywhere.

To the staff of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), I wish to express my sincere appreciation for your dedication, resilience, and professionalism. Your commitment to the mandate of this Commission remains the bedrock of our progress, and I am grateful for every effort you bring to your duties.

To every worker across Cross River State and Nigeria at large, in public service, in the private sector, in trade, in agriculture, and in every honest vocation, I salute your commitment and your sacrifice. The nation is built on the strength of your labour.

To our Cross Riverians in the diaspora, I recognise and celebrate you on this occasion. Wherever in the world your work has taken you, your industry and excellence continue to bring honour to Cross River State. You are not forgotten.

As we mark this day and welcome the new month of May, I pray that your labour yields its deserved reward, and that this season brings renewed strength, greater opportunities, and continued success to you all.

Happy Workers’ Day and Happy New Month.

OtuEkong Chief (Dr.) Otu Okor, FCAI
Chairman, Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM)