CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Forum of Special Assistants (FOSA) in Cross River State has lauded Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration for what it described as two years of courageous, compassionate, and visionary leadership, committed to people-centred governance.
The commendation was given during a Stewardship Dinner held in honour of Governor Otu, themed “People First in Action – The Journey Thus Far.” The event, held in Calabar on Tuesday, brought together government functionaries, political leaders, stakeholders, and members of the public to reflect on the governor’s midterm achievements.
Delivering the keynote address, Andrea Ekeng Inyang, Chairman of the Forum of Special Assistants, hailed Governor Otu as a leader who has not only occupied office but has stood firmly with the people.
“When the history of Cross River State is written, this chapter will be titled: ‘The People’s Era,’” Inyang said. “Two years ago, our state stood at a crossroads. But with the heart of a father and the mind of a builder, you chose the higher road — the road that placed people first.”
Inyang praised the governor for his servant-leadership approach, which has prioritised the completion of critical infrastructure projects initiated by previous administrations, eliminated wasteful spending, and restored public trust in governance.
Key Milestones Highlighted
Among the notable achievements highlighted in the governor’s two-year scorecard are:
- Security: The launch of Operation Okwok, a community-based initiative, which redefined public safety and restored trust in security operations across the state.
- Infrastructure: The ongoing rehabilitation of the Adiabo-Eseku Road and the Parliamentary Extension in Calabar, aimed at improving mobility and boosting economic activity.
- Unity and Connectivity: The completion of the long-awaited Nsan–Oban Road in Akamkpa, which now connects previously divided communities.
- Education and Knowledge Access: The revitalisation of the Cross River State Library as a modern centre for intellectual growth.
- Water Supply: The revival of the Calabar Urban Water Scheme, restoring dignity and convenience to residents.
- Tourism: Restoration and repositioning of tourism assets such as Tinapa and the International Conference Centre (ICC) to boost economic vitality.
- Agriculture: Initiatives including soil mapping, farmer support programmes, and renewed rural investment aimed at strengthening food security.
- Youth Empowerment: The empowerment of over 500 youths through skills acquisition schemes like the SKYRUN programme.
- Public Confidence: A renewed sense of trust in government driven by tangible performance over publicity.
Inyang also took time to honour the First Lady of the State, Her Excellency Bishop (Mrs) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, describing her as the only and most deserving awardee of the night. He commended her silent humanitarian efforts, inclusion of women in the transport sector, and unwavering advocacy for justice and dignity for women.
READ ALSO: Orok Duke lauds Tinubu’s impactful policies across Niger Delta
“Your Excellency Ma, your passionate inclusion of women in the transportation sector and your silent, impactful projects stand as a glowing testament to your love for humanity,” he said.
A Covenant of Commitment
The Forum reaffirmed its loyalty to Governor Otu’s administration, vowing to remain dedicated to the People First vision and to carry it to new heights.
“We are not tired. We are not weary. We are charged, aligned, and ready for more,” Inyang declared. “This gathering is not just a celebration. It is a covenant — a covenant of commitment and service.”
On his part, Governor Otu, ably represented by Sen. Stephen Odey, Commissioner for Education, thanked FOSA for reminding him what he and done and the need to o more.
“What you have put on today will not have been possible
without the support of all the people of the state. Thank you for all that you have done to drive this administration to this level.
“As a people, the interests of a prosperous Cross River State is key and paramount, and that is exactly what we have been doing.
“It is my considered view that much is expected, but that cannot be achieved without the support of all Cross Riverians, and that is why this administration has chosen our popular mantra – People’s First.
“So, I want to use this opportunity to join all Cross Riverians, particularly the Forum of Special Assistance to the Government,
that we have to redouble our efforts so that come 2027, the achievements so far recorded, we are going to surpass that. By the end of this administration, Cross River State will never remain the same,” he said.
He also acknowledged the support of sponsors and partners who helped actualise the dinner event, stating that their sacrifices gave the Forum a platform to honour the administration’s milestones.
The event concluded with a standing ovation for Governor Otu, described as “The People’s Governor, the Father of a New Cross River, and the Light of This Generation.”
Governor Otu, elected in 2023 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is marking his second year in office with a renewed focus on people-driven development, transparency, and inclusive governance.
