On the bright sunny day of May 27, 1967, history was made in Nigeria when 12 new states were created. One of the states was named South Eastern State with headquarters in Calabar. It was created from Eastern Region. In 1976, the state was renamed Cross River State.
Like humans who clock 50, would the state at 50 be also feeling the pinch of a midlife crisis? Many people look back over the past 50 years and marvel at how the state has managed its natural resources, capitalized on its strategic location and preserved its native culture. It is heartwarming that 50 years down the line, Cross River State’s trail blazing and resilient spirit is still alive in today’s generation.
The anniversary provides an opportunity for celebrations and reflections of the past, present, and future of the state.
See highlights of the celebration below;
HISTORY MAKERS IN CROSS RIVER: This book will feature stories of those who fought for the creation of the state right from 1967. We have patriots like Brig. U. J. Esuene, Dr. Okoi Arikpo, Chief I. I. Murphy. Justice Udo Udoma, Gen. Paul Omu among others. Most importantly, this book will serve as a platform to unveil some of the unsung heroes and heroines who fought and served the state gallantly as teachers, farmers, businessmen and women, military personnel, clergy, bureaucrats, etc. The book project is designed in a manner that families will share stories of how patriarchs and matriarchs from their families contributed to the development of the state in their peculiar ways.
THE FUTURE NOW: CROSS RIVER STATE IN THE NEXT 50 YEARS: This is meant to set agenda for the development of the state in the next 50 years. 50 egg heads from varied backgrounds will share in book chapters, their ideas, views and perspectives of how the state can achieve its dream of statehood in the next 50 years.
TOMORROW’S LEADERS: YOUNG PEOPLE TO WATCH: This is a compendium of profiles of young people who are creative, innovative, cutting edge, and risk taking and out-of-the-box thinkers who are taking their future in their hands. They are grabbing it with both hands. From overcoming education challenges to exploring agricultural value chain and the use of technology, many of today’s young leaders aren’t just dreaming up big ideas but they actually are doing it. From running their small businesses to seeking for political leadership, these charismatic youths and entrepreneurs are redefining leadership in Cross River and the entire country.
PHOTO EXHIBITION AND COFFEE BOOK: This Photo exhibition and coffee table book both titled “Still So Beautiful At 50” would highlight different visual sceneries of the state through the years, portraying it’s beauty, history, people and the amazing times.
A VIDEO DOCUMENTARY “Half a century”: A documentary to correlate the visuals and times of all that has been collected through the life-cycle of the state and her people.
THE LEGACY AWARDS: The Legacy Awards are the premier benchmark for individuals and organizations that have demonstrated hallmark of excellence, quality, innovation and best practice that have enduring impact. The objective of this awards is to acknowledge and celebrate those whose actions and activities contribute to making the society better. The Awards honors the best achievers in different spheres of life especially the impact they make on society. All the awards are relational and they meet the felts needs of the community. The process will be audience participatory. Award recipients will be nominated and voted for by the public. The awards cover all categories in the different sectors of life.
ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE: There will be a 50th Anniversary Conference. On the May 27, 2017 anniversary of statehood, a daylong conference is planned. The event, to be held at the Calabar International Conference Center, will provide an open forum for the public to discuss the statehood—past, present and future. It is also in this event, the books will be presented.
See more details at www.crossriverat50.com.ng