Chief of Staff to Cross River State Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar (4th from R), Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Chief Perry Opara (3rd R) and others at the award ceremony.
By Anietie Akpan
The Chief of Staff to Cross River State Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, alongside seven State Commissioners, have been honoured with the prestigious National Leadership Awards.
A press release from the Governor’s Office said, Ironbar was recognized as the Best Chief of Staff, while the commissioners from the Ministries of Health, Education, Works, Information, Finance, and Youths were named Best Commissioners in their respective fields.
The awards ceremony, held Thursday in Abuja at the National Merit Award Building was attended by a host of distinguished Cross Riverians, including National Assembly members and elder statesmen such as Senators Eteng Jonah Williams, Asuquo Ekpenyong, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, Hon Joseph Bassey, Hon. Patrick Abang, Hon. Emil Inyang, Chief Pius Tawo and Sir Maurice Effiwat among others.
Chief Perry Opara, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, explained that the Selection Committee of the National Leadership Awards had identified the Cross River leaders for their significant contributions to the success of the Otu administration and the broader development of the state.
“These honourees have demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to improving their ministries, and by extension, Cross River State,” Opara said.
Now in its 22nd year, the National Leadership Awards is known for celebrating individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the growth of society across various sectors. Opara expressed his hope that the awards would inspire further dedication to public service. He urged the recipients to continue their efforts to better both their state and the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, the Chief of Staff expressed gratitude for the recognition and credited Governor Bassey Otu’s visionary leadership for the success of the team.
“With a governor who is a thoroughbred all-rounder at the helm, we are motivated to be proactive in our roles, ensuring every aspect of Cross River progresses,” Ironbar said.
He added that the awards would serve as a catalyst for even greater commitment to service, reinforcing the idea that the core purpose of public life is to serve the people.
Ironbar also thanked the many dignitaries who attended the ceremony, including the State Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and some Chairman of local government councils, reaffirming their collective commitment to the governor’s “People’s First” agenda.
