Diaspora indigenes unveils plans for C’River communities

The Cross River Indigenes in the Diaspora Organisation, CRID, has unveiled plans to expand the group’s interventions in health, education, agriculture, water and housing across Cross River communities and boost the wellbeing of indigenes.

President of the forum; Christopher Lekan, disclosed this on Monday during a virtual global ceremony, marking his re-election and inauguration for a second term in office.

The event was attended by members of the forum residing within countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States.

Lekan said, “Our focus shall remain clear. We will expand scholarships, sustain health and farmers’ programs, commence the borehole project, advance the diaspora estate, and equip our youths with digital skills. Your trust is deeply appreciated, and I do not take this responsibility for granted. Together, we have built a remarkable organisation, and together we shall continue to take it to greater heights.”

He credited part of the growth to the establishment of regional structures across continents and to the creation of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) by the State Governor, Bassey Otu.

Lekan outlined key achievements of the past three years and projects for the new tenure, stressing that under health, the forum had organised a healthcare professionals’ symposium with the University of Calabar in 2024 and 2025 and health outreach programs at the Christmas Village in Calabar.

He announced that the 2026 edition of the health outreach will hold in Ogoja LGA in December, while also highlighting plans to establish a modern healthcare facility in Cross River State to expand access to specialist care through virtual medical consultation services with medical doctors in overseas.

He also announced the commencement of the CRID Diaspora Estate in Calabar to provide affordable and retirement-friendly housing for Cross Riverians abroad, in partnership with CRIDCOM and called for unity and greater commitment from members, stressing that the new mandate will prioritize accountability, service delivery and the mobilization of diaspora expertise for state development.