By Streetnews
The Governor of Cross River State Bassey Otu has expressed concern over the increasing influx of refugees into the state.
Governor Otu described the situation as a growing humanitarian and economic burden.
Speaking on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to Nigeria, Dimanche Sharon on Tuesday , Otu revealed that Cross River is currently hosting over 50,000 refugees, mainly from conflict-ridden parts of neighbouring Cameroon.
He noted that the situation is exerting immense pressure on the state’s already stretched resources.
“Migration may come with opportunities globally, but in our context, it’s a heavy humanitarian and economic burden. Cross River has become a refuge for thousands fleeing conflict, and we are struggling to keep up,” the governor said during the meeting at the State Executive Council Chambers in Calabar.
He called for enhanced international collaboration to support refugee management in the state. Areas highlighted for support included psychosocial services, cross-border coordination, and the development of sustainable financing models.
Governor Otu emphasized the peaceful and organized nature of Cross River, describing it as a viable environment for investment and global partnerships.
“Cross River is one of the most peaceful and socially organized states in Nigeria. We are eager to collaborate with partners like IOM to turn our challenges into opportunities,” he added.
The governor also welcomed IOM’s interest in working with the newly established Cross River State Diaspora Commission and proposed the joint development of a comprehensive migration and refugee response programme grounded in data, innovation, and technology.
In her remarks, IOM Chief of Mission Ms. Dimanche Sharon commended Governor Otu’s leadership and hospitality. She noted the warmth and potential she observed during her visit, describing Cross River as a place of diversity and peace.
“We need to retell the story of Nigeria and especially of places like Cross River,” she said. “What I have seen here is diversity, peace, and tremendous potential. The world needs to hear this version.”
Ms. Sharon reaffirmed the IOM’s commitment to strengthening its support in Cross River, citing areas of collaboration such as displacement tracking, anti-human trafficking efforts, border management, and diaspora-driven development.
“We are eager to work with your government to develop a flagship programme that reflects Cross River’s unique context,” she said. “With data-driven planning, private sector engagement, and diaspora inclusion, we can co-create a model others can learn from.”
The IOM currently operates in 25 states across Nigeria and has pledged to expand its footprint in Cross River in response to its strategic location and growing migration-related challenges.
