South Korean Ambas
sador to Nigeria, Noh Kyu- Duk, has described Cross River as a safe, clean and well governed state.
Kyu- Duk, who stated this during a courtesy call on the Cross River State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade, at the governor’s office Calabar, stressed the need for other states to emulate these qualities.
In his words: “I am impressed because the city of Calabar is cleaner and more peaceful than Abuja,” adding that, “I thought that Abuja was the best city in Nigeria but my guess was wrong as I see Calabar as a very safe place and well governed. So congratulations on your achievement in less than a year in office.”
The envoy said he was in the state to deliver a special lecture to students of the University of Calabar in a bid to widen the intellectual content of the future generation, as well as strengthen the synergy between his country and the federal and state governments in Nigeria.
“My first mission is to strengthen our relationship with the Federal Government since our embassy is located in Abuja, and to enhance and promote our relationship with state governments because the states are where all activities are going on and, where businesses can actually be carried out.”
Acknowledging that Cross River is blessed with lots of solid mineral deposits, Kyu-Duk stressed the need for companies in South Korean to partner the state  in boosting the socio-economic activities of the area, while deepening their partnership on culture and tourism.
He said: “As you know, South Korea is one of the countries that have achieved economic development relatively within a short period, as we have tried to develop our socio-economic value in areas like iron and steel, road, housing, water and transportation, and I understand that state governments are trying to enhance these fields. We will try to look for some companies who can make investments in these fields”, he said.
Responding, Governor Ayade enjoined South Koreans to take advantage of the enormous investment opportunities in the state to expand their business horizon while strengthening cultural and economic ties.
“Cross River State has carved a niche for itself given the character and quality of its people;  we are not materialistic, we are great people.  “In relating with Cross River State, we give you the classic reflection of true African warmth.
“When you come to Calabar, no matter how aggressive you are in Nigeria, the spirit of enjoyment, peace and tranquility will overtake you,” he added.