By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Governor Bassey Otu’s Chief of Staff, Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, has described his recent honorary doctorate as a renewed challenge to deepen his commitment to public service and humanity.
Ironbar made the remarks on Monday at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, after returning from Lagos, where he was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Policy and Administrative Studies by Crown University, Delaware–USA, in collaboration with the Centre for Public Service Productivity and Development.
Visibly elated, Ironbar said the award reflected not just his personal effort but the collective spirit of service championed by Otu’s administration.
“I feel encouraged by this recognition from Crown University and the Centre for Public Service Productivity and Development. It is a good one, and it comes with a sense of responsibility,” he said.
On how the award would influence his work, Ironbar stated it would spur him to redouble his efforts in advancing the administration’s people-centred vision.
“I’m serving under a Governor who has made service to humanity his utmost priority. This award is a challenge for me to step up, build on what I have already done, and make it even better,” he added.
Known for his open-door leadership and administrative acumen, Ironbar also offered guidance to aspiring public servants, urging them to uphold integrity, inclusiveness, and professionalism.
“Once you become a public servant, know that eyes are watching you. You must strive to do the right thing without fear or favour. Operate an open-door policy and ensure your conduct and attitude reflect strong public relations and empathy toward the people,” he advised.
The honorary doctorate, conferred at a ceremony in the University of Lagos on Saturday, has been widely celebrated by colleagues, political leaders and citizens who described it as a well-deserved recognition of Ironbar’s contribution to governance and public service.
Brief Profile Dr Emmanuel Ironbar
Dr Emmanuel Ironbar is the Chief of Staff to Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu. A seasoned administrator and public affairs strategist, he has earned a reputation for his accessible leadership style and commitment to efficient governance.
Before his appointment, Ironbar held several roles in government and the private sector, contributing to policy development and public service delivery. He is recognised for his focus on transparency, inclusivity, and strengthening citizen engagement in governance.
