Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has stepped up efforts to attract investment and unlock new economic opportunities for the state through strategic engagement with the African Export-Import Bank, Afreximbank.
During a high-level meeting with the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, George Elombi, at the headquarters of Afreximbank in Cairo, Otu explored areas of collaboration aimed at accelerating economic growth and development in Cross River State.
The discussions focused on potential partnerships that could drive investment inflows, create jobs, support indigenous businesses and strengthen critical infrastructure across the state.
Speaking after the meeting, Otu said the engagement was part of his administration’s broader strategy to expand economic opportunities and improve the welfare of residents.
“We discussed ways Afreximbank can partner with Cross River State to attract more investments, create jobs, support businesses and improve infrastructure for our people,” the governor stated.
He reiterated his administration’s resolve to pursue partnerships capable of delivering measurable socio-economic benefits and transforming the state’s economic landscape.
“My administration remains committed to building strong partnerships that will bring real development and economic opportunities to every part of our state,” Otu added.
The engagement underscores the state government’s ongoing drive to position Cross River as a prime destination for investment, industrialisation and sustainable economic development.
The latest talks build on an existing relationship between the state and Afreximbank.
Otu had previously secured a funding commitment of $3.5 billion from the bank for the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport Project, a major maritime infrastructure initiative expected to strengthen regional trade, logistics and industrial activities while enhancing Cross River’s strategic role in West Africa’s economic corridor.
If realised, the seaport project is expected to serve as a catalyst for job creation, increased commerce and long-term economic expansion in the state.
