The Cross River State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to agricultural industrialization and food security through strategic partnerships and investments aimed at transforming the state’s agricultural and technological sectors.
This pledge was reaffirmed during a courtesy visit by Dr. Mike Ervin, Political and Economic Section Chief of the United States Consulate General, Lagos, who led a delegation to the office of the Deputy Governor.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey highlighted the state’s strategic focus on agriculture, infrastructure, and technology. He described Cross River as Nigeria’s safest sub-national entity, ideal for both business and leisure due to its secure road networks and border points.
“The administration of Governor Bassey Otu prioritizes three key areas- Agriculture, Infrastructure, and Technology,” Dr. Odey said. “In agriculture, we have put in place a framework not only to feed the state but to feed Nigeria.”
Dr. Odey noted that key cash crops such as oil palm, cocoa, and coffee flourish across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, making Cross River fertile ground for agri-business investment. He encouraged the U.S. delegation to explore the wealth of opportunities the state offers.
“We are setting up a team of young Cross Riverians who will interface with you and showcase what the state has to offer in these key areas,” he added.
In his remarks, Dr. Ervin commended the Cross River State Government for its warm hospitality and affirmed that his visit had validated the positive reports he had received about the state.
“There are various opportunities that exist in Cross River State in agriculture and tourism, and we are here to key into these opportunities,” Dr. Ervin said.
Present at the occasion were the Secretary to the Government of the State, Professor Anthony Owan Eno and several members of the State Executive Council, including the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang; Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere; Commissioner for Youths, and Barr. Ijom Ukam. Also presenet were the Commissioner for Housing , Dr. Beatrice Igwe; Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Helen Esamoh; the Economic Adviser, Prof. Peter Oti; the Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, Mr. Otu Esu Okor; the Head of Personal Staff to the Deputy Governor, Dr. Chris Ojikpong and other dignitaries.
Nzuanke, Ukongikwen
Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar
