The Cross Riverians in the Diaspora (CRID) has announced an ambitious three-year development agenda aimed at improving housing, healthcare, education and access to clean water across Cross River State.
The organisation revealed that its roadmap includes the construction of a Diaspora Estate in Calabar, the establishment of a modern healthcare facility, and a statewide borehole programme that will cover all 18 local government areas.
The announcement was made by CRID President, Ambassador Christopher Lekan, during his inaugural address after beginning his second term in office.
Diaspora Estate Planned for Calabar
One of the centrepieces of the development agenda is the proposed Diaspora Estate, which will be located in Calabar.
According to Lekan, the housing project is designed to provide affordable, secure and retirement-friendly homes for Cross River indigenes living abroad who wish to invest in or eventually return to the state.
He disclosed that discussions have already begun with property developers, while CRID will work closely with the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) to deliver the project within the next three years.
The organisation believes the estate will encourage greater diaspora investment while strengthening long-term ties between overseas Cross Riverians and their home state.
Modern Healthcare Facility to Boost Specialist Medical Services
CRID also announced plans to establish a modern healthcare facility supported by medical professionals from the Cross River diaspora.
The project will be complemented by virtual specialist consultation services, allowing residents to access expert medical advice without the need to travel overseas for treatment.
Lekan explained that the healthcare initiative is expected to:
| Expected Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Better access to specialists | Residents can receive expert medical consultations locally and virtually. |
| Lower healthcare costs | Reduces the need for expensive overseas medical trips. |
| Knowledge transfer | Diaspora medical professionals will contribute their expertise to strengthen healthcare delivery. |
| Improved healthcare system | Supports long-term development of medical services in Cross River State. |
He noted that the initiative will improve healthcare access while helping strengthen the state’s medical infrastructure through international expertise.
Statewide Borehole Programme Begins in September
Another major project under the new agenda is the Clean Water Initiative, which is scheduled to begin in September 2026.
CRID plans to construct boreholes across all 18 local government areas in Cross River State.
The first phase of the programme will commence in Biase Local Government Area, where the inaugural borehole project is expected to be completed in November 2026.
The initiative is intended to improve access to safe drinking water for communities facing water shortages.
Education, Agriculture and Youth Programmes to Expand
Beyond infrastructure, CRID plans to widen its social intervention programmes.
Lekan announced that the organisation will extend its scholarship scheme to include both primary and secondary school students, expanding opportunities for young learners across the state.
Other initiatives scheduled to continue include:
- Community health outreach programmes.
- Agricultural support for rural farmers.
- Youth sports development.
- Information technology training for young people.
The organisation said these programmes remain central to its broader vision of sustainable development.
CRID Membership Nears 500 Across the World
Reflecting on the organisation’s growth, Lekan said CRID has expanded significantly since its establishment.
Founded in 2020 with just 12 members, the network now boasts nearly 500 members spread across Africa, Asia, Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States.
He credited the expansion to growing interest among Cross River professionals abroad who are committed to contributing to the state’s development.
Diaspora Commission Strengthened Government Partnership
Lekan described the establishment of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) under Governor Bassey Otu’s administration as one of the organisation’s biggest milestones.
According to him, the commission has created a stronger partnership between the state government and Cross River indigenes living abroad, making it easier to coordinate development initiatives and diaspora investment.
University Partnership and Leadership Changes Announced
The CRID president also highlighted several achievements recorded during his first tenure.
Among them was the signing of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Calabar in 2025, aimed at promoting academic mentorship and capacity building.
He further announced the dissolution of the outgoing Board of Trustees, standing committees and regional leadership structures in line with the organisation’s constitution before unveiling new appointments that will oversee CRID’s activities during his second term.
Lekan Calls for Greater Diaspora Participation
Lekan urged Cross River indigenes living across the world to remain united and continue supporting development efforts in the state through investment, professional expertise and knowledge sharing.
He said the organisation’s achievements over the past several years were made possible through collective commitment and expressed confidence that the newly unveiled projects would further improve the quality of life for residents across Cross River State while strengthening connections between the diaspora community and their homeland.
