The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has warmly received members of the Global United Christian Congress of Africa and the Diaspora (GUCCAD) during their homecoming and state banquet held on Monday at the Hogis Royale Conference Hall, Calabar.
Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described the event as a historic milestone, a mix of joy in reuniting with descendants of Africans whose ancestors were taken away during the slave trade, and sorrow for the painful memories of that dark chapter. He lauded the resilience and global achievements of Africans in the diaspora, particularly in creative industries, manufacturing, and public service, noting that their success stories continue to bring pride and healing to the African continent.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, the Governor emphasized the values of forgiveness and reconciliation, saying that though the scars of history remain, unity and love must define the collective journey ahead. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building strong international partnerships that promote economic growth, cultural exchange, and mutual development.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to international partnerships, the Governor urged diaspora investors to explore opportunities in technology, agriculture, health, and education, assuring government support for sustainable collaboration. He also encouraged guests to experience the State’s tourism attractions, including the Obudu Mountain Resort, Agbokim and Kwa Falls, and the lush rainforests of Akamkpa and Boki.
Earlier in his opening remarks, Prince Otu Okor, Chairman and CEO of the State Diaspora Commission, described the visit as the dawn of a new era of collaboration, understanding, and mutual growth between Cross River State and the global African family. He said the mission rests on six key pillars, investment, cultural exchange, education, reconciliation, reconnection, and reflection, all designed to inspire innovation, foster understanding, heal historical wounds, and strengthen global ties.
Similarly, Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Sir Gab Onah highlighted that the state was responsible for the export of about 31% of the 4.2 million slaves that were taken to the New World, but, however, described their homecoming as a cosmic-positive connivance by God and the universe.
Delivering a vote of thanks, GUCCAD President, Prof. Ijeoma Anicho Nwosu, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Otu and his team for their warm hospitality, pledging continued partnership to promote the socioeconomic advancement of Cross River State and deepen diaspora relations.
