By Our Reporter
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has assured the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) of the state government’s readiness to host the association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Manufacturers’ Summit in Calabar.
Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, gave the assurance on Tuesday when members of MAN, led by their President, Otumba Francis Meshioye (OFR), paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Calabar.
Odey reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure the successful hosting of the event. He emphasised that the state considers the gathering a priority because of its expected economic benefits to residents and the business community.
He noted that despite political activities expected in October 2026, the state remains fully committed to hosting the AGM and summit “whenever you are ready.” Odey described the Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC) as an ideal venue for the event and informed the delegation about the state government’s reclamation of the Tinapa Business Resort, which he described as a strategic one-stop investment hub expected to attract manufacturers and investors.
Describing Cross River as one of the safest destinations for business in Nigeria, the Deputy Governor encouraged members of MAN to consider establishing factories in the state. He also pointed to the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport as a major international evacuation corridor that will enhance trade and industrial growth in the region.
Earlier, the President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and leader of the delegation, Otumba Francis Meshioye, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and confirmed that the association’s 2026 AGM and Manufacturers’ Summit will be held in Calabar. He revealed that the visit was part of preparations for the event, which he said will attract manufacturers and investors from across the country and create opportunities to explore investment prospects in the state.
Meshioye further assured that MAN is committed to partnering with the Otu-led administration to strengthen the manufacturing sector and contribute to the economic development of the state and the nation.
Also present during the visit were the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr Bong Duke, Director General of MAN, Mr Segun Ajayi Kadir (mni), Director of Membership Division, Mr Joseph Emoleke, Director of Special Duties, Mr Kanayo Iwuchukwu, and Chairman of MAN, Cross River/Akwa Ibom Branch, Dr Adoga Inalegwu, among others.
