Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has called on HBM Nigeria Plc to deepen its investment in the state through increased local content participation, expanded corporate social responsibility initiatives, and greater opportunities for qualified Cross Riverians.
Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made the call while delivering a goodwill message at the official unveiling of the new corporate identity of Lafarge Africa Plc, now rebranded as HBM Nigeria Plc, a member of the Huaxin Group, at the Lagos Continental Hotel on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Congratulating Huaxin Cement Ltd and the management of HBM Nigeria Plc on the milestone, Rt. Hon. Odey described Cross River as a longstanding partner of the company and noted that the state’s cement plant remains the largest cement production facility in Nigeria by size, contributing significantly to industrial growth, employment generation, and economic development.
He assured the new investors of the state’s vast reserves of limestone and other cement-producing raw materials, emphasizing that Cross River possesses the geological capacity to support substantial expansion in cement production and related industrial activities.
Odey urged the company to prioritize local sourcing of materials, engage indigenous contractors and service providers, and create pathways for qualified Cross Riverians to occupy management positions. He also advocated career development and mentorship programmes to strengthen local leadership capacity within the organization.
Speaking further, he called for increased corporate social responsibility, stressing the need for community development projects, support for schools and healthcare facilities, improved road infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and programmes that directly benefit host communities.
Concluding, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration to providing a secure and business-friendly environment through infrastructure development, reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks, and strategic partnerships. He expressed confidence that the relationship between Cross River State, Huaxin Cement, and HBM Nigeria Plc would continue to flourish for mutual prosperity and the overall development of the state and Nigeria at large.
Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar
June 22, 2026