Calabar – Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank (AFDB), has pledged substantial investment support for Cross River State’s health and agriculture sector.
At a state banquet organized in his honor at a state banquet last Wednesday, Adesina outlined a bold plan to support the delivery of primary healthcare, along with the launch of a special AGRO processing zone project, in addition to the investments they are already promoting in the state.
He praised the leadership qualities of Governor Cross River, Sen. Bassy Otz, who noted that the governor is “a passionate, action-driven, and accountable leader” who does a lot with his infrastructure.
Adesina said that with the OTU Governor working with Afrixem Bank for the Bakassi Deep Seaport project, Cross River State will soon become a very important logistics and industrial processing hub beyond Nigeria, covering the entire West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea.
Regarding healthcare, he has committed to supporting the governor’s efforts in revitalizing primary health centers and in the state’s health insurance initiatives.
According to him, “We ensure that not only will our primary healthcare centers be activated, but will be digitally connected to enable seamless access and portability of our health records.”
He also advocated for the adoption of a sustainable, franchise-based business model for healthcare delivery, designed to improve national access and quality.
Looking ahead, Adesina expressed her excitement at the launch of a special Agricultural Industry Processing Zone (SAPZ) in Cross River State, describing the project as a game-changer for the state’s economy.
In his remarks, the OTU governor reaffirmed that the administration’s focus was on promoting economic independence and reducing excessive reliance on federal allocations. He outlined three strategic pillars: security, food security and energy security as the centre for unlocking sustainable development in the state.
The OTU has revealed that assets owned by several dormant states have been recovered and revitalized, significantly improving investor confidence, making Cross River State one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations.
He also highlighted efforts to integrate Cross River into Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea and regional economic corridors, whilst increasing agricultural productivity through large cocoa, cassava and other crops.
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Looking back on his recent annual holiday, he joked that he felt “younger and more energetic” and that he was ready to step up his efforts towards transformation in the state.
OTU thanked the Lieutenant Governor and the Cabinet members for his stewardship in his absence, explaining that the state’s progress was God-inspired.
Also, former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hai Chief Edem Duke celebrated Vancouette as a convergence of visionary leadership in his welcoming speech. He described the OTU governor as a “turbocharged” developer and praised his commitment to infrastructure and economic growth.
Describing Adesina as “the number one technocrat in Africa,” Duke welcomed his groundbreaking initiatives, such as his legacy of promoting agricultural transformation across the continent.
He praised both leaders for their integrity in their vision and their commitment to inclusive development, adding, “Dr. Adesina is not just a leader, but a God’s Pathfinder, illuminating the future of Africa.”
