Bassey Otu: 65 Garlands for a transformational leader

By Michael Jegede

Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, a seasoned and astute banker turned politician, a quintessential reformer, and transformational leader who has lived a fulfilled and contented life worthy of emulation, contributing greatly to nation building and societal advancement, clocked 65 years on October 18, 2024.

Otu, a devout Christian, compassionate, visionary and liberal leader, known for his commitment to the service of God and humanity which he has continued to uphold with unwavering dedication. The man who upon assumption of office as the Governor of Cross River State resolved to make the body of Christ an integral part of his administration is believed to be living up to expectation in his approach to governance.

Fondly referred to as Sweet Prince, Otu, in his life as a politician has constantly set out to serve the people with every sense of commitment and mark of true leadership. He has proven from his past outstanding records as a federal parliamentarian and present remarkable feats as Cross River governor that he is indeed a politician that totally believes in living a life of selflessness and deeply caring for the people under his watch.

Always eager, prepared and determined to make a difference in any leadership position he finds himself, Otu’s time so far spent in office as governor has witnessed meaningful progress and development in the different sectors of the state’s economy such as healthcare, infrastructure, education, tourism and agriculture.

He has made substantial strides in the construction and rehabilitation of roads resulting to significant improvements in access between urban and rural areas. There has been the establishment of new health centres and renovation of existing health facilities.

The governor has embarked on the refurbishment of schools and building of new classrooms, thereby creating better learning environments in the schools. He has carried out palliative measures in the education sector to ameliorate the hardship faced by parents like bearing the cost of WAEC registration fees for students in public schools.

With his resolve to see to the total transformation of the state, he has taken manifold steps to open up Cross River for investment opportunities and introduced policies and programmes geared towards enhancing food security and empowerment of farmers in the rural communities. In his leadership philosophy of project continuity, the performing governor has successfully secured a $3.5 billion funding for the Bakassi Deep Seaport Project initiated by the previous administration in the state.

The Bakassi Deep Seaport is said to be an Agro-Value-Chain port that will pave the way for exploring the potential in the country’s agricultural sector in the South-South, Eastern and Northern regions of Nigeria, go along way in boosting the nation’s export capabilities, and enhancing foreign exchange earnings. It’s a potentially transformative initiative that will be an economic game changer for both Cross River and Nigeria.

In a short message to Cross Riverians on his birthday, posted on his Facebook page, the governor reiterated his commitment to serving the people. He said: “65 years and still thriving! It’s been an incredible journey, and as Governor of Cross River, I’ve had the privilege of serving our vibrant community.

“With each passing year, my commitment to our people deepens. I promise to work even harder, striving for excellence and innovation to ensure a brighter future for all. Together, let’s continue this journey of progress as I promise you all unlimited sweetness.”

There wasn’t much fanfare, due to the governor’s decision not to have an elaborate celebration considering the hardship Nigerians are going through at the moment. He was quoted to have said through his Special Adviser on General Duties, Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, in a programme on Sparkling FM Radio, “I cannot in all sincerity celebrate my birthday with such expected fanfare in the midst of current hardships.

“There’s much suffering in the country due to current hyperinflation. It would be insensitive to do so. That’s why it is a low-key event.”

Expressing gratitude to the people of the state for their prayers and good wishes, he added: “I have occupied many positions in this country. In all, I have never disappointed. So, I vow that I shall not disappoint the people of Cross River State as their governor, by the grace of God. There’ll be value addition.”

Saluting Otu at 65, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, described Otu as a God-fearing, peace-loving and decent politician.

The ex-Senate Leader, in his goodwill message to congratulate the governor, prayed for him wishing him many more years of good health and God’s abundant blessings, and the wisdom and knowledge he would need to continue to pilot the affairs of the state in the right direction.

Hear him: “I rejoice with our amiable governor, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

“As he clocks 65, I wish him a long and glorious life and pray the Almighty to bestow him the wisdom and courage to navigate our State through its current challenges to its destined blessed future.

“You have shown promise and dedication and your story will be a happy one. You have shown the ability and willingness to make a difference in the steering of the Ship of our dear state.

“You have always been a faithful and humble man of peace, a forthright and diligent politician and a team player. May God in His infinite mercy continue to shower you with His blessings and protection, and grant you all that you need to take Cross River to enviable heights.

“Happy birthday, Your Excellency!”

Ndoma-Egba, erstwhile senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, enjoined Cross Riverians to remain steadfast and unflinching in their support for the Bassey Otu-led administration.

The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, joined in the celebration of his boss, saying that “The scriptures and history have proven that the birth of great men are not accidental but predetermined. With the miraculous restoration of our State unfolding before our eyes, we are convinced that The Almighty God Himself sent our Governor to us for a divine mission.

“It is with this understanding that I joined millions of Nigerians to celebrate the God-sent Governor of our dear State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu as he clocks 65.

“Our Dear Governor, I specially appreciate God for your life of selfless service to humanity, sacrificial commitment to godliness and undying support to the downtrodden.

“As a father, you have taught me the importance of hard work and patience. As a leader, I have seen you lead with humility, teaching me how to consider the People First.

“As you mark your 65th birthday, it is my prayer that the good Lord shall continue to bless you with all the heavenly wisdom you need to take our dear State to an enviable height.

“Happy Birthday, The People First Governor.”

The Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, on behalf of his colleagues, saluted the governor and assured him of the continuous cooperation of the state assembly.

He remarked: “Your Excellency, you have demonstrated a clear vision for a prosperous Cross River, and the legislature takes pride in partnering with you to actualize that vision. We will continue to uphold our constitutional duty to provide oversight and ensure that the execution of the state’s programs is efficient and impactful. Together, we are laying the foundation for a more secure, prosperous, and united Cross River State.

“On this special occasion of your 65th birthday, the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly wishes to reassure you of our continued support. We remain aligned with your mission to enhance the quality of life for every Cross Riverian, and we look forward to furthering the success of your ‘People’s First’ agenda through legislative cooperation.

“Once again, happy birthday, Your Excellency! May this new chapter of your life be filled with abundant grace, wisdom, and the continued courage to lead our great state to greater heights.”

The Cross River State All Progressives Congress (APC) was not left out in the torrent of congratulatory messages dished out by the governor’s admirers, various groups and individuals to eulogise him as he attained the age of 65.

In a statement issued on behalf of the State Chairman, Barrister Alphonsus Eba and the entire State Executive Committee (SEC) of Cross River APC, the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Emmanuel Edem Inyang, said: “Today, we honor and celebrate your exemplary leadership, dedication, and profound impact on the lives of the people of Cross River State.

“Your compassionate approach and relentless commitment to your ‘People’s First’ and ‘Season of Sweetness’ mandate have proven your genuine concern for the progress and well-being of every citizen. Your administration has brought forth transformative socio-economic changes that continue to uplift the citizens of our beloved state and inspire hope for a brighter future.

“As a party, we take great pride in your visionary leadership and determination to propel Cross River State to new heights of development and prosperity.

“May God continue to bless you with long life, good health, and the wisdom to steer our state toward greater unity, peace, and progress.”

The Cross River State Chapter of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), the umbrella body of all the registered political parties in Nigeria, poured encomium on the governor for his obvious display of exceptional leadership qualities since he assumed office, describing him as an authentic leader with listening ears.

According to a news report written by Nsan Ndoma-Neji, and published in National Compass, the group is particularly impressed with the prompt response Otu gave to their request for the upcoming local elections to be postponed by one week and the cost for the purchase of nomination forms reduced.

In yielding to the demand of IPAC at a meeting he held with the members, the governor acknowledging the challenging economic situation, in his magnanimity immediately proposed a reduction of the nomination form fees from N5m to N1m for chairmanship candidates and N1m to N200,000 for councillorship candidates with the balance to be covered by government to ensure compliance with the law.

A statement signed by the Cross River IPAC Chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet-Okon on behalf of IPAC to congratulate the governor at 65, reads: “As a group, we felicitate you, our ‘People First’ governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, as you celebrate life in wholeness.

“We felicitate you as you make tireless efforts to transform our dear state. Your effort is commendable. Cross River under your watch has witnessed tremendous turnaround in the area of solid minerals exploration, agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructural development. Your commitment to the people’s welfare and progress is inspiring.

“As you clock 65, we acknowledge your unwavering dedication to public service and your vision for a better Cross River State. May this special day bring you joy, and may your reign continue to uplift the lives of the people you serve.

“We wish you a wonderful birthday and many more years of impactful service.”

Jegede, a journalist, writes from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja