RESTORING GLORY, ONE PAGE AT A TIME: A SALUTE TO GOV. BASSEY OTU'S REVIVAL OF THE CROSS RIVER STATE LIBRARY
By Anthony EKPO BASSEY
When the roots of a tree are watered, its fruits flourish. In like manner, when the mind is nourished, society blossoms. It is in this noble spirit that we raise our voices and pens in praise of the people's Governor, Distinguished Senator Bassey Edet Otu, whose foresight, commitment, and love for learning have breathed new life into the long-neglected Cross River State Library.
In a time when many leaders turn a blind eye to knowledge infrastructure, choosing instead to chase after shadows, Senator Otu has chosen to dig where the gold truly lies, which is the mind. By renovating and transforming the state library into a state-of-the-art, serene, and world-class centre for learning, he has proven that he is not only building for today, but for tomorrow and beyond. After all, a society that reads is a society that leads.
The transformation of the library is more than bricks and mortar. It is the rekindling of a legacy. Once an icon of enlightenment in the state, the library had sadly become a shadow of its former self. But as the saying goes, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness." And Governor Otu has not only lit a candle; he has set the entire path of learning aglow.
With quiet determination, he has returned dignity to knowledge and pride to the people of Cross River. Now, students, researchers, and lovers of books can walk through the gates of that hallowed hall and feel the embrace of an environment fit for thought and imagination. The upgraded facility speaks volumes, literally and figuratively. From digital resources to peaceful reading nooks, it is now a sanctuary where the youths can dream big and read their way to greatness.
“The child who reads today will lead tomorrow,” and thanks to Governor Otu. Now, Cross River’s sons and daughters, have a fertile ground to grow into visionaries, inventors, and nation builders.
We say without mincing words: this is not just renovation; it is restoration. It is a return of lost glory. A governor who sees books as bridges and libraries as lighthouses is a rare gem, and Cross River State is blessed to have one. Indeed, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.”
Posterity will not forget this deed. Generations yet unborn will speak your name with gratitude and pride, for you have laid a foundation upon which the dreams of many shall rise. A good name is better than silver and gold, and with this act, you have engraved yours in the hearts of your people.
So, to Senator Bassey Edet Otu, the man with eyes on the future and hands on the plough, we say: well done, sir. You have shown that you are not only a leader of the people but a servant of purpose. And as the saying goes, “He who teaches a child sows a seed for eternity.” You have done exactly that.
May the fruits of your labour multiply. May the pen never run dry in Cross River again. And may the light you have kindled in our library never dim.
The books are open, Governor. And history is already writing your name in gold.
