Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has called on the newly appointed Head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Nigeria to build on the achievements and partnerships established by his predecessor, particularly in supporting displaced persons and vulnerable communities in the state.
Odey made the call while receiving the new UNHCR leadership during a courtesy visit at the Government House in Calabar. He commended the agency for its sustained interventions in Cross River, especially in communities hosting refugees and internally displaced persons.
The Deputy Governor noted that Cross River State has maintained a longstanding relationship with the UNHCR, providing shelter and support for thousands of refugees, particularly those fleeing conflicts from neighboring Cameroon. He stressed that the humanitarian partnership between the state government and the UN agency has contributed significantly to peace, social stability, and community development.
According to him, the administration of Governor Bassey Otu remains committed to supporting humanitarian agencies and development partners working to improve the welfare of displaced populations and host communities.
Odey praised the outgoing UNHCR leadership for strengthening collaboration with the state government and implementing programmes that improved access to healthcare, education, livelihood opportunities, and social services for refugees and vulnerable residents.
He urged the new head of the agency to sustain the momentum by expanding existing programmes and introducing innovative interventions that would further enhance the living conditions of affected populations.
The Deputy Governor also reaffirmed the state's commitment to providing an enabling environment for humanitarian operations, emphasizing that Cross River remains one of Nigeria's most peaceful states and a model for refugee protection and integration.
Responding, the new UNHCR representative expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Government for its continued support and hospitality towards refugees and displaced persons. He pledged to strengthen collaboration with the state government and other stakeholders to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those most in need.
The UNHCR official acknowledged the critical role Cross River has played in hosting refugees over the years and assured that the agency would continue to work towards durable solutions that promote self-reliance, social inclusion, and community resilience.
The visit further underscored the enduring partnership between Cross River State and the UNHCR, with both parties expressing optimism about deepening cooperation to address emerging humanitarian challenges and improve the lives of vulnerable populations across the state.
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