By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Government of Cross River State has invited Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, MAN, to establish as many factories in the state as they want.
The government described the state as one of the safest destinations for business in Nigeria.
Representing the state governor when MAN delegation called on him on Wednesday, the Deputy Governor, Dr Peter Odey pointed to the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport as a major international evacuation corridor that will enhance trade and industrial growth in the region.
He assured MAN of the state government’s readiness to host the association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Manufacturers’ Summit in Calabar.
He further assured government’s commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure the successful hosting of the event, emphasizing that the state considers the gathering a priority because of its expected economic benefits to residents and the business community.
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.
MAN’s delegation was led by their President, Otumba Francis Meshioye (OFR).
Meshioye expressed appreciation for the warm reception and confirmed that the association’s 2026 AGM and Manufacturers’ Summit will hold 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.
