Encomiums Trail Otu as He Turns 66

By Ekanem Asuquo and Joy Umo

A wave of goodwill has enveloped Cross River State as Governor Bassey Edet Otu clocks 66, with citizens, political leaders, and community stakeholders celebrating him as a compassionate, visionary, and people-centered leader whose “People First” philosophy has rekindled hope and restored faith in governance. From the corridors of power to the bustling streets of Calabar, the mood is one of gratitude and admiration for a governor many describe as the symbol of a renewed Cross River.

Leading the symphony of commendation, the Deputy Governor of Cross River, Dr. Peter Agbe Odey, congratulated his principal, describing him as a visionary and servant leader whose impact continues to shape the state. He praised the governor’s achievements in economic growth, youth empowerment, and agricultural development, noting that his leadership style, anchored on integrity and compassion, reflects true service to humanity. He prayed for God’s continued wisdom and strength for the governor to lead Cross River to greater heights.

Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe of Cross River North hailed Governor Otu as a humble and inclusive leader whose governance has united the state and strengthened development. He prayed for God’s blessings and good health for the governor. Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of Cross River South also described Otu as a visionary leader whose inclusive governance continues to touch lives across the state. On his part, Senator Eteng Jonas Williams of Cross River Central commended the governor’s humility and bridge-building leadership, noting his strides in unity and development.

Chief Victor Felix Idem, Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, commended the governor’s commitment to grassroots development, saying he has taken governance to rural dwellers through road rehabilitation, electrification, and secretariat upgrades.

 Similarly, the Commissioner for Works, Pius Ankpo, lauded the governor’s infrastructural renewal drive, citing the Obudu International Airport project and key road works as proof of his determination to connect communities and boost commerce. Mr. Darlington Bassey, Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, noted that Otu has revived the local government system through improved welfare and staff capacity building.

In his reaction, Special Adviser on Assets Management, Gilbert Agbor Esq., said the governor’s pragmatic leadership has restored investor confidence and hope in governance.

 From the tourism sector, Prince Ekpenyong Ojio, Managing Director of the State Tourism Bureau, praised the governor for reviving major attractions and restoring Cross River’s global tourism brand. Chief Henry Onwe, Director General of RAMP, highlighted the governor’s investment in rural road development, which he said has opened new economic frontiers. Apostle James Anam, Mayor of Calabar, described Otu as a transformational leader whose urban renewal projects and youth empowerment initiatives have restored faith in governance.

From the transport sector, Sabastine Raphael, National President of the Delivery Vehicles Owners and Drivers Association (DELVAN), appreciated the governor’s efforts to improve roads and security, saying his leadership has stabilized the transport sector.

 Ordinary citizens also shared heartfelt wishes. 

Madam Arit Otu, a trader at Watt Market, said, “I wish our dear governor a happy 66th birthday and pray for God’s blessings on him. But I appeal to him to address the multiple daily tickets we traders pay.” Tony Asuquo, a mini-bus driver, added, “We appreciate the ongoing road works but urge the governor to stop the harassment of drivers by multiple task force groups.”

On that trail, Edem Ekpo, a retired judicial staff, appealed for improved infrastructure and welfare in the judiciary, while Mr. Sunday Michael and his family described the governor as “a visionary leader whose passion for inclusive governance inspires hope.” Rt. Hon. Etim Asido, Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, said, “Governor Otu is a worthy son of the soil whose people-oriented governance has renewed faith in public service.”

 Archbishop Emma Gospel Isong, South-South Vice President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, commended the governor’s humility and integrity, praying for divine wisdom to lead the state to greater heights. Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung, Acting Chairman of Bekwarra LGA, said the governor’s “People First” philosophy and focus on infrastructure have rekindled hope among citizens.

Across the state, the verdict is unanimous. Governor Bassey Edet Otu has redefined leadership through empathy, integrity, and purposeful service. As he turns 66, Cross Riverians celebrate not just a man but a movement, the enduring promise of the Season of Sweetness. 

In furtherance of his humane posture, the governor is marking his 66th birthday with humanitarian and community-focused activities reflecting his “People First” philosophy.

 The two-day celebration begins on Friday, October 17, 2025, with a meeting with the Widows Association at the State Library Complex, Calabar. On Saturday, October 18, he will visit the Pope John Old People’s Home, the Government Children’s Home, Uwanse, and the Afokang Correctional Centre before hosting senior citizens and elders at Hogis Royale and Apartment, Calabar. The programme underscores Governor Otu’s compassion, humility, and commitment to the wellbeing of all citizens.