Cross River to Host Global Investment Summit in London to Attract Investors and Boost Diaspora Engagement
The Cross River State Government has announced plans to host a landmark Global Investment Summit in London from November 17 to 19, 2025, in a strategic move to position the state as a competitive investment hub in Nigeria and West Africa. Akahi News reports that the summit, themed “Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainable Growth with the People’s First Agenda of Senator Bassey Otu,” aims to attract global investors, policymakers, and diaspora professionals to explore diverse business opportunities across multiple sectors.
A Vision to Rebrand Cross River’s Global Investment Profile
According to Hon. Ignatius Oli, Chairperson of the Central Planning Committee and official of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, the summit will highlight key investment-ready projects that align with the People’s First Agenda of Governor Bassey Otu.
“We are positioning Cross River as a competitive investment destination in Nigeria and West Africa,” Oli stated, noting that the event will “unlock partnerships that will fuel economic growth and align with the governor’s developmental vision.”
Akahi News gathered that the summit’s sessions will feature investors, development partners, and policy experts exploring opportunities in agriculture, tourism, ICT, manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and the green economy.
Focus Areas: Agriculture, Tourism, and Renewable Energy
In the agricultural sector, Cross River intends to promote commercial farming, agro-processing, and export value chains, positioning the state as a key player in Nigeria’s food security and export drive.
Tourism, one of the state’s most promising industries, will be another highlight of the summit. Opportunities in eco-tourism, cultural festivals, and hospitality will be showcased to potential investors. Oli explained that Cross River seeks to attract capital into its manufacturing sector, with emphasis on agro-allied industries, light production, and export growth.
In line with global sustainability trends, renewable energy projects—especially solar mini-grids, hydro, and biomass initiatives—will also take centre stage, alongside infrastructure development such as roads, industrial parks, and urban renewal projects.
“We are targeting responsible investments in forestry and mining, including sustainable timber, eco-products, carbon credits, and minerals like barite and limestone,” Oli said.
Diaspora Engagement: Linking Cross Riverians Abroad to Development
The Cross River Diaspora Commission has described the summit as a “turning point” for the state’s global re-engagement strategy.
According to Otu Okor, Chairman of the Commission, the event will connect Cross Riverians abroad with viable investment channels back home.
“Our people in the diaspora are not just spectators; they are vital partners in the state’s transformation agenda,” Okor explained.
He added that the summit will enable diaspora-led investments through innovative financial mechanisms such as bonds, joint ventures, and mentorship programmes.
Akahi News learnt that this approach aligns with the Nigerian Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) and is expected to stimulate both domestic and foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the state.
Partnership with International Organisations
The organisers also commended the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Nigeria, led by Sharon Dimanche, for its strategic support in mobilising multilateral partners to strengthen the summit’s goals.
Oli emphasised that IOM’s involvement highlights the importance of migration and diaspora investment as key pillars of sustainable development in Cross River State.
“This is not just an event; it is a gateway to partnerships that will define the future of Cross River,” Oli said.
What to Expect at the London Summit
The summit’s opening keynote will be delivered by Governor Bassey Otu, followed by policy showcases on investment incentives and regulatory reforms.
There will be panel discussions across major sectors — tourism, infrastructure, health, agriculture, ICT, and renewable energy — as well as a special diaspora session focused on skills transfer and strategic partnerships.
Akahi News reports that the summit will feature business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) networking, giving investors and policymakers a direct platform for collaboration.
Interested participants can register via the official website: https://cridcom.crossriverstate.gov.ng/crs-investment-summit.
A New Chapter for Cross River’s Global Economic Drive
As Cross River prepares for its London Global Investment Summit, analysts believe the initiative could redefine the state’s investment narrative by bridging the gap between policy formulation and economic implementation.
If successful, it may serve as a model for other Nigerian states aiming to leverage diaspora networks and global partnerships to drive inclusive development.
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Thanks. By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
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