Calabar, Cross River — In a gesture aimed at strengthening ties with the media and supporting their essential work, Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu on November 1, fulfilled his promise to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) by handing over a brand-new, 14-seater Innoson Motors bus to the Union.
The presentation took place as journalists gathered to receive the vehicle, which promises to aid their activities within and beyond the state.
The bus, a product of the Nigerian automotive manufacturer Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), was handed over to the NUJ Cross River State Council on behalf of Governor Otu by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.
Ironbar noted that the executive bus is expected to enhance the Union’s mobility and operational efficiency, enabling it to cover events and provide timely news to the people of Cross River and the nation.
Representing Governor Otu at the event, Hon. Ironbar commended the media’s dedication and highlighted their critical role in advancing the “people first” agenda, a core pillar of Otu’s administration.
“I chose today, the 1st day of November 2024, to present this 14-seater bus in keeping with the promise made earlier in the year by His Excellency, as we begin to count down the days to the activities of our annual tourism programmes,” Ironbar said.
“Let me use this opportunity to once again commend you for the good job you are doing in the state. The values that your work is adding to Cross River State are unquantifiable. On behalf of the good people of the state, I urge you to continue to be a partner for the growth and development of Cross River.”
In a symbolic moment of gratitude and solidarity, NUJ Cross River State Council Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, accepted the bus on behalf of the Union, alongside Union executives and elders. Comrade Bassey expressed his appreciation to Governor Otu, reaffirming the media’s commitment to supporting the government in its programs and initiatives.
He praised the Governor’s willingness to keep his word, marking the donation as a positive step in fostering a fruitful partnership.
This gesture fulfills a pledge made by Governor Otu at a dinner with journalists on June 12, 2024, during his first anniversary celebration as governor. In his remarks at the time, he promised the new vehicle, acknowledging the media’s vital role in providing information and keeping citizens informed.
As the state heads into its annual tourism season, Governor Otu’s support of the media underscores a continued effort to build collaborative relationships that not only serve public information needs but also promote the state’s vision for development.