Global Interfaith Ambassador Visits Calabar, Proposes Pilgrimage Vision to Boost Peace and Prosperity in Cross River

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The newly appointed Global Interfaith Ambassador, Dr Raphael Ogar Oko, has visited Calabar, Cross River State, where he attended a youth interfaith programme organised by the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star youths at the University of Calabar.

During his visit, Dr Oko shared his vision for transforming Cross River State into a leading international tourism and interfaith hub in Nigeria. He proposed the establishment of the Interfaith and International Pilgrimage to Paradise (IIP2P) as well as the creation of an Interfaith Pilgrims Village in the state.

If approved, these initiatives promise economic, cultural, and social benefits for both Cross River State as a whole and Calabar in particular.

Key Proposals Presented by Dr Oko

Dr Raphael Ogar Oko outlined several strategic ideas to reposition Cross River State as a centre of interfaith harmony, tourism, and economic growth:

1. Tourism Destination Development
   • Position Cross River State as the “People’s Paradise” and Calabar as the “Canaan City” of Nigeria.
   • Convene a stakeholders’ dialogue to design a comprehensive tourism and interfaith development strategy for the state.
2. Launch of Interfaith and International Pilgrimage to Paradise (IIP2P)
   • Develop a unique pilgrimage programme combining sightseeing with teaching and learning activities on interfaith relations.
   • Attract local and international pilgrims seeking spiritual enrichment, cultural exploration, and education.
3. Construction of the Interfaith Pilgrims Village
   • Build a model community where pilgrims can live together, practise peace, and experience the idea of a “Paradise Village” on earth.
   • Create a venue for interfaith leaders and communities to learn and teach peaceful coexistence.
4. Branding Calabar for Tourism and Peace
   • Market Calabar as a place to “Come And Learn And Be At Rest” and “Come And Live And Be At Rest”, strengthening its reputation as a hub for peace and harmony.
5. Collaboration with the State Government
   • Partner with the government for policy support, infrastructure, land allocation, and funding to actualise the projects.

Benefits for Cross River State

If the proposals are approved, Cross River State stands to gain in several critical areas:

• Economic Diversification: Tourism and pilgrimage can generate significant revenue beyond dependence on traditional sectors.
• Job Creation: Employment opportunities in construction, hospitality, transportation, and cultural education sectors will multiply.
• Peace and Social Cohesion: Interfaith activities will promote unity, tolerance, and understanding among diverse communities.
• Global Recognition: CRS could become internationally recognised for interfaith tourism, attracting visitors, investors, and development partners.
• Cultural Preservation: Local festivals, traditions, and crafts will gain new visibility and relevance.
• Infrastructure Growth: Roads, utilities, and security facilities will receive upgrades to support the influx of tourists and pilgrims.

Why Calabar Will Benefit the Most

While the entire state will experience positive changes, Calabar — the state capital — will enjoy specific advantages:

• Central Tourism Hub: As the main gateway for visitors, Calabar will host the Pilgrims Village, learning centres, and tourism activities.
• Business Opportunities: Hotels, markets, restaurants, transport providers, and local artisans will thrive with increased tourism traffic.
• Urban Development: Infrastructure upgrades will improve roads, public spaces, and utilities for both visitors and residents.
• Educational Partnerships: Institutions like the University of Calabar can host interfaith training programmes, seminars, and cultural exchanges.
• Year-Round Tourism: Pilgrimage events will fill off-peak tourism seasons, providing steady economic activity throughout the year.

Requirements for Government Approval

Dr Oko highlighted conditions necessary for the success of the proposals:

• Supportive state policies for interfaith tourism and pilgrimage projects.
• Public and private investment in infrastructure, security, and hospitality.
• Inclusive participation by faith leaders, community groups, and local businesses.
• Strategic marketing and branding to attract global attention.
• Environmental sustainability and long-term project monitoring.

Previous Advocacy by Dr Oko

This proposal follows Dr Oko’s consistent efforts to promote peace and interfaith cooperation. Akahi News recalls his campaigns for interfaith dialogue, youth peace programmes, and religious tolerance initiatives across Nigeria. His previous engagements demonstrate his commitment to building a culture of unity, love, and forgiveness — values that underpin the current pilgrimage vision.

Dr Raphael Ogar Oko’s visit to Calabar and his ambitious proposals could redefine Cross River State’s place on Nigeria’s tourism and interfaith map. With government approval, the Interfaith and International Pilgrimage to Paradise and the Interfaith Pilgrims Village could transform Calabar into a hub of peace, cultural learning, and economic growth.

The initiatives promise not only to diversify the state’s economy but also to strengthen social cohesion and showcase Cross River as a model of interfaith harmony in Africa.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org