The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, on Wednesday attended the Investment and Business Conference organized by the Cross River State Diaspora Commission in collaboration with GUCCAD. The event, themed “Invest Cross River,” was held at Gigi’s Royale, Bishop Avenue, Calabar.
The conference brought together investors from the diaspora and across Nigeria to explore diverse investment opportunities across various sectors of the state’s economy. Participants made insightful presentations showcasing the vast investment potential within Cross River State.
In his keynote address titled “Education Infrastructure Sustainability,” Professor Odey emphasized the pivotal role of education in driving sustainable development. He underscored the need for strategic investments in:
*The establishment of private schools
*School infrastructure development
*ICT integration in education
*Revitalization of technical colleges
He further extended a direct invitation to potential investors to partner with the state through structured models for investing in human capital development. These partnership models include:
- The Infrastructure PPP Model
- The Industry–Academia Adoption Model
- The EdTech Integration Model
- The Research and Development Endowment Model
- The Skill Development Grant Model
The conference also featured an exhibition by entrepreneurs, business owners, and artisans who showcased locally made products and crafts, reflecting the creativity, innovation, and economic potential of Cross River State.
The event was graced by top government officials and dignitaries, including His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, represented by Dr. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Finance. Other attendees included Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman/CEO, Cross River State Planning Commission; Dr. Prince Eka Williams, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy; Dr. Henry Ayuk, Commissioner for Health; Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Duke, Commissioner for Commerce; among several other distinguished guests.
The conference served as a veritable platform to foster partnerships, promote investment opportunities, and strengthen the collective drive toward sustainable economic growth and development in Cross River State.
By SaintAugustine Adula Odey
October 15, 2025.
