The Governor of Cross River State Sen. Prince Bassey Otu has called on the Nigerian Labour Union to sheath their sword and give the government a chance for more deliberation.
The Governor who spoke through his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey during the Thanksgiving service held today the 1st of October 2023 at The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Hope Waddle Parish, Calabar to celebrate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary.
Speaking at the event, the Governor said “As a government, we have pledged to prioritise the welfare and well-being of our citizens. We have promised a ‘People-First’ approach to governance and today, I want to assure you that your commitment to the development of our state remains unwavering and we are determined to create an environment where businesses can thrive and create job opportunities for our people.”
Earlier, the Prelate, His Eminence Ekpeyong Akpanika PhD said “It is with mixed feelings of Joy and sadness that we celebrate the independence.”
According to him, the state of the nation calls for reflection as both the government and people are involved in building a legacy for the next generation.
While reminiscing on the once-organised state of the educational, transportation and vibrant middle class, he called on leaders at all levels to rise and become generational thinkers and take action to build a good legacy for the next generation.
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The Prelate called on all to remember that what immortalises a man is not what he does for himself, but for others. Also, greatness is not a function of possession but a function of service to God and humanity. “Furthermore, the service you render today may be the harvest of your child tomorrow.”
He commended Sen. Bassey Otu’s led administration for their achievements in a few months, particularly the noticeably frequent evacuation of waste in the metropolis, intervention in the area of Security and Her Excellency, Rev. Eyoawan Otu’s welfare visits to the home of the aged, motherless and less privileged in the society, while encouraging them to do more.
His Eminence appealed to the government to as a matter of urgency empower the youths by redirecting their energy into sports and reviving the sports council.
He called on the government to take advantage of the fertile land the state has to invest massively in agriculture while also encouraging technological know-how to meet up with a competitive world.
He wrapped up with a prayer for the success, guidance and sustenance of this administration and for the Lord to surround the Governor with men and women with a vision to grow the state to the next level.
The event was attended by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, the Chief Judge of the State, His Lordship, Justice Akon Ikpeme, the Obong of Calabar and members of the Obong’s Council, members of the State Executive Council, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Service Chiefs, top government functionaries, elder statesmen and a host of other dignitaries.