CRIDCOM Bill Passed: Cross River State House of Assembly Confirms Members to Drive Diaspora Engagement

 Cross River State House of Assembly passes CRIDCOM Bill, confirms members to engage diaspora community for state development and growth initiatives.

Victoria Omini.

The Cross River State House of Assembly has made a significant breakthrough with the passage of the CRIDCOM Bill, accompanied by the screening and confirmation of members to the Cross River State Diaspora Commission. This pivotal event occurred on May 13, 2025, within the Assembly's Legislative Chambers.

The journey to this milestone included a public hearing held on April 28, 2025, following the bill's successful second reading in the State House of Assembly. Led by Hon. Otu Okor, the newly formed commission is tasked with the critical responsibility of engaging with Cross Riverians in the diaspora. Its primary goal is to foster their active participation in the state's development, thereby leveraging their potential for the growth and advancement of Cross River State.

With the confirmation of its members now complete, the Cross River State Diaspora Commission is well-positioned to play a vital role in several key areas. These include enhancing diaspora engagement, mobilizing resources, promoting investments, and facilitating cultural exchange. Each of these functions is expected to contribute significantly to the state's progress.

The establishment of CRIDCOM represents a strategic move towards tapping into the vast potential of the diaspora community. By creating a formal platform for engagement, the state aims to benefit from the expertise, resources, and networks of its citizens abroad. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to inclusive development and its recognition of the diaspora's role in shaping the state's future.

The commission's leadership, under Hon. Otu Okor, is expected to drive these initiatives forward, ensuring that the diaspora community's contributions are harnessed effectively. With a clear mandate and the support of the state assembly, CRIDCOM is poised to make a meaningful impact on Cross River State's development trajectory.

This development is a testament to the government's proactive approach in seeking innovative solutions for state growth. By empowering the diaspora community to participate in development processes, the state is likely to benefit from increased investment, knowledge transfer, and global networking opportunities.

The passage of the CRIDCOM Bill and the confirmation of its members mark the beginning of a new chapter in Cross River State's development story. As the commission begins its work, the potential for positive change and growth becomes increasingly evident. With the diaspora community now formally integrated into the state's development framework, the prospects for accelerated progress are promising.

The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. It reflects a broader strategy to position Cross River State for sustainable development by leveraging all available resources, including those from its diaspora community. As CRIDCOM starts to engage with Cross Riverians abroad and implement its mandate, the state can look forward to tangible benefits in various sectors.

The successful passage of the CRIDCOM Bill is a result of collaborative efforts between the government and the community. It demonstrates what can be achieved when there is a shared vision for development and a commitment to harnessing the potential of all stakeholders.

As the commission embarks on its mission, it will be crucial to maintain open lines of communication with the diaspora community. By doing so, CRIDCOM can ensure that its initiatives are responsive to the needs and aspirations of Cross Riverians worldwide.

The potential impact of CRIDCOM extends beyond economic benefits. By fostering a sense of belonging and connection among the diaspora, the commission can help build a stronger, more cohesive community that is invested in the state's future.

In conclusion, the passage of the CRIDCOM Bill and the confirmation of its members represent a significant step forward for Cross River State. With its focus on diaspora engagement and development, CRIDCOM is well-placed to drive meaningful change. As the commission begins its work, the people of Cross River State can look forward to a brighter future, shaped in part by the contributions of their fellow citizens abroad.