CROSS RIVER STATE GOVERNOR, SENÂ LIYEL IMOKE(R) ADDRESSING THE BRITISH DEPUTY HIGH COMMISSIONER, MR PETER CARTER (M) & POLITICAL SECRETARY TO THE COMMISSION, MR.EDWARD DON WHEN THE DIPLOMATS LED A BUSINESS DELEGATION TO GOVERNMENT HOUSE CALABAR. NOVEMBER 14, 2013
BEVERLY HILLS, CA, November 14, (THEWILL) – Britain has indicated its intention to invest in Cross River as its contribution to the state’s development.
Mr. Peter Carter, Deputy High Commissioner of Britain to Nigeria, disclosed this while on a courtesy call on Governor Liyel Imoke in Calabar.
Carter said his visit to the state was to acquaint himself of opportunities for development as well as understand the state politically and economically.
The diplomat, who disclosed that his entourage was made up of representatives from Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt offices of the commission, explained that his visit was to show their functions do not stop in those cities but cover every part of the country.
He acknowledged the presence of British companies in the state such as PZ Cussons, which has invested in palm oil production.
Responding, Governor Imoke noted that the visit was apt as the state is diversifying to reduce reliance on petro-dollar.
The Governor said the state positions itself as a destination for business under a service driven economy and has invested in key areas like information communication technology (ICT), hospitality and agriculture.
He maintained that it is the state’s belief that breaking away from the traditional way especially in agriculture will create value chain and a partnership between Britain and Cross River will not only expand its economy but also create opportunities for the local economy.
He observed that the state can be a destination for a strong global economy with focus on the social sector due to its concerted effort towards significant improvement in health care delivery, education and social services through its partnership with international organizations.
