Tag: Gov. Otu

 

The Chairman of the Cross River State Muslim Welfare and Pilgrims Board, Imam Kabeer Olowolayemo, has received a cash donation of ₦10 million and 150 bags of rice from the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, in support of Muslims across the state during the festive period.

Imam Olowolayemo described the intervention as timely and thoughtful, noting that it would provide relief to many families and strengthen the spirit of sharing that defines the season. He expressed appreciation to the Governor for his consistent commitment to inclusive governance and social welfare.

The Board Chairman also thanked the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Emmanuel Ironbar, for facilitating the release of the funds and food items, commending his role in ensuring that the Governor’s goodwill reached the intended beneficiaries without delay.

Using the occasion, Imam Olowolayemo called on Muslims across Cross River State to use the festive period to pray for peace, unity, and continued progress in the state. He urged the faithful to uphold the values of compassion, tolerance, and mutual respect, and to support efforts aimed at strengthening harmony among all communities.

He reaffirmed the readiness of the Cross River State Muslim Welfare and Pilgrims Board to work with the state government in promoting the welfare of Muslims and contributing positively to the overall development of Cross River State.

 

By Dianabasi Effiong

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has described the formal return of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort to the state government as “a battle fought and won for all Cross Riverians,” marking what he called a new dawn for the state’s economy.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Calabar, weekend, Otu said the recovery of Tinapa symbolized not just the reclaiming of a major asset but the revival of a vision that once placed Cross River on the global economic map.

“The return of Tinapa is not merely an event; it is a rebirth, the triumph of faith, patience and resilience,” he said.

Recalling its conception under former Governor Donald Duke, Otu said Tinapa once showcased the state’s capacity for bold, investment-driven development. He assured that his administration, under the People First Agenda, would reposition the Free Zone as a hub for trade, tourism and creative enterprise.

“We are breathing new life into Tinapa, not as a relic of abandoned ambition but as a living symbol of Cross River’s resilience,” he stated.

The Governor disclosed that the state is already engaging credible investors and partners to transform the facility into a vibrant centre of commerce and job creation, operating under a transparent and accountable management structure.

“This moment is a collective victory — for our past leaders whose dreams gave it birth, for the government that fought to reclaim it, and for the future generations who will inherit its promise. Together, we shall turn this symbol of struggle into a testament of triumph,” Governor Otu said.

He also extended appreciation to the Federal Government and relevant agencies for their cooperation in the transition process, commending all stakeholders who worked behind the scenes to make the return possible.

Governor Otu concluded with a note of hope and determination, reaffirming that the rebirth of Tinapa would mark the beginning of a new economic dawn for Cross River State.

“We are a people of faith and courage. Tinapa is once again ours — and under our watch, it shall flourish. Let the world know that Cross River has reclaimed her pride, and from this soil, we shall build the future we have always dreamed of.”

Governor Otu recalled that prior to the establishment of Tinapa in 2007, Cross River State had little by way of landmark projects that drew national and international attention. He noted that the conception of Tinapa by former Governor Donald Duke marked a turning point in the state’s developmental trajectory, earning it global recognition as a forward-looking and investment-friendly destination.

“Then, like a dream that triumphed over doubt and circumstance, Tinapa emerged — radiant, ambitious, visionary — and became the spark that changed the narrative of our state forever,” he said. “By its conception, Tinapa redefined how the world saw us, lifting Cross River from the shadows into the global spotlight.”

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mike Odere, said the handover represents a revival of what many thought was lost forever.

“It means pride, it means reawakening, it means renewed hope,” Odere said, adding that with full ownership now restored, the government would be free to attract investors and reposition the facility for maximum economic impact.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of AMCON, Mr. Shola Lamide, said the corporation acquired the Tinapa asset in 2011 but struggled to attract private investors to revive the project. He expressed satisfaction that the facility has now been fully handed back to Cross River State, describing the resolution as “a win for both AMCON and the people of Cross River.”

 

 

 

By Marcel Edem

The Movement for the Creation of Ogoja State has expressed heartfelt gratitude to dignitaries who accompanied them on a visit to the State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

The delegation, comprising leaders from the nine local government areas, thanked the Governor for his support and prayers for the creation of Ogoja State.

Delegates Who Made the Visit were:

Obanliku LGA.

Chief Linus Adie, Sen. Musa Adede, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Chief Dave Ashang, Dr. Mrs. M. T. Ikwen, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Prof. Mike Ushie, and Dr. Roy JN Dimla

Obudu LGA

HE Prof. Ben Ayade, Prince Jedy Goddy-Agba, Hon. Emma Ibeshi, Mrs. Catherine Agba-Ajibike, Sir. Gabriel Awafung, Chief Mathias Ake, Dr. Richard Orim, Elder Gabriel Okang, Bar Vena Ikem, and Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye

Obubra LGA

Mrs. Comfort Otera-Chigbue, Arc. Linus Ovat, Hon. Solomon Ekam, Mrs. Beatrice Akonjom, Chief Julius Adomi Mbina, Chief Ernest Eden Irek, and Prof. Anim Ajake

Bekwarra LGA

Sen. Kanu Godwin Agabi, Hon. Justice Maurice Eneji, Pst. Fidel Odey, Chief Dr. Mrs. Monica Okom, Chief Agnes Anyor, Mr. Emmanuel E. Enamhe Esq, and Dr. Michael O Ola

Etung LGA

Sen. John Owan Eno, Prof. Sen. Sandy Onoh, HE Col. Pam Ogar, Dr. Joe Ndem Ndifon, Rt. Hon. John Oru Eta, and Dr. Mrs. Rose Ogar Nyambi

Ogoja LGA

Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Chief Dr. Peter Ojie, Gen. Manix Nyiam, Hon. Rita Ayim, Chief Igbe Aruku, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodo, and Prof. Francis Mogu

Ikom LGA

Sen. Victor Ndoma-Egba, Chief Paul Erokoro, SAN, CP Lawrence E. Alobi, Prof. Roland Ndoma-Egba, Dr. Odigha Odigha, Lady Nancy Nsor, and Mrs. Miriam Neku

Yala LGA

Sen. Greg Ngaji, Chief Mrs. Matina Odom, AVM Clem Ogbeche, Bar. Alphonsus Eba, Hon. Godwin Offiono, Hon. Justice Obojor Ogar, Dr. Alice Achi, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ogana Lukpata, and Prof. Mike Okom

BokI LGA

Gen. Moses Obi, Hon. Cletus Obun, Prof. Oshita Oshita, Mr. Moses Abang, Prof. Anthonia Inaja, and Dr. P Anake

Secretariat

Dr. Mrs. Achi Bekomson, Benedict Ogrinya, and Mike Manu Ogar

Leaders of the Southern Initiative:

– HRH Etubom Arc Bassey Eyo Ndem
– Hon. Sylvester Nsa, PhD
– Chief Edwin Usang
– H.E. Florence Dan Archibong
– Ntufam Dr. Richard Efa
– Barr. Ene Cobham
– Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong
– Ntufam John Okon
– Barr. Maria Ukpanyang
– PMS. Bassey Koofreh
– Engr. Ekpe Essien Ita
– Pst. Mrs. Rosemary Archibong
– Hon. Bassey Ekefre
– Chief Dr. Grace Akpanika

The movement reaffirmed its determination to push forward, stating that they will not rest until Ogoja State becomes a reality. They extended their gratitude to all leaders and members who sacrificed their time and resources for the cause.

Marcel Edem, Cross River Live Correspondent

 

 

By Dianabasi Effiong

Recently, indigenes of Cross River State worldwide converged in Birmingham, United Kingdom, for their ‘2025 Cross Riverians in the Diaspora (CRID) Convention’.

The three-day convention, which was held from Aug.1 to Aug. 3, had as its theme: “Diaspora Contribution to the Development and Sustainability of Cross River State.”

In his keynote address, Papa DC Enamhe, PhD, an attorney and initiator of the Think Cross River Movement, urged the people of the state, at home and in the diaspora, to embrace unity, loyalty, pride, and responsibility to enhance the growth of their state.

In his opening remarks, he also said: “When I was coming here, my party, the PDP, warned me not to speak glowingly about Governor Otu, but looking at his developmental strides and some of his monumental strides, I had to disappoint them and think Cross River.”

(The governor was given an award at the occasion.)

According to Enamhe, the Think Cross River Movement was conceived to promote love, harmony, and peace across ethnic, religious, social, and economic divides among indigenes of the state.

Dr Enamhe said that the Think Cross River philosophy was progressing in leaps and bounds as the administration of Gov. Bassey Otu’s adopted it as a complementary part of his “People First” agenda.

Enamhe, also an environmental and human rights lawyer, community activist, and teacher, urged all Cross Riverians at home and abroad to “Think Cross River”.

(Papa DC Enamhe on the podium.)

He said, “This is because the present State administration has keyed into it as a complementary part of His Excellency, Sen. Bassey Otu’s empathetic People First, Mantra.

“One practical demonstration of indeed living the people first Mantra by the governor was the total and unconditional support for the agitations for the creation of Ogoja State in recent times.

“Many governors will, in the quest for larger territorial control, be averse to cutting off territories from their area of control.
But in the demonstration of foresight, to ensure the easier development of the entire landmass that constitutes the present Cross River, Gov. Otu became the major proponent of the Ogoja State Movement.

(Enamhe, left, with Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River, middle, and wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu.)

“HE THINKS CROSS RIVER! Cross Riverians at home or abroad must start to think CROSS RIVER
Our politicians in all political parties, especially those elected and appointed into positions, must eschew inclinations to partisan considerations in dealing with the people and only THINK CROSS RIVER.

“Most importantly, Cross Riverians in the diaspora must THINK CROSS RIVER

“They are our collective identity out there. They export our identity of class, decency, hospitality, and accommodation to the outside world.
Thinking Cross River will always motivate them to be better versions of themselves and their state and nation.

“And for every son and daughter of Cross River, who believes that home is not a place,
But a promise.
Whether at Home or Abroad, Think Cross River!.

“From the legislative chambers of the Tenth National Assembly
to the silent hopes of communities awaiting recognition,
This is more than a debate about statehood-
It is about justice, visibility, and strategic participation.
Whether at Home or Abroad, Think Cross River!

“Lobby wisely. Agitate boldly. Advocate purposefully.

“Whether at Home or Abroad, Think Cross River! Cross River is more than a place on the map – it is a memory in motion, a culture in colour, a promise waiting to be fulfilled.

“Whether you’re walking the cobbled streets of Calabar or navigating life in distant lands, the rhythm of Cross River beats steadily in your heart.

“This is a call to every son and daughter – students, professionals, artisans, dreamers: let your success echo with the pride of your roots. Invest, speak up, represent, return when you can, carry along others at home to opportunities abound, and remember always, your state needs your light.

“Whether at home or abroad, think Cross River!
Think heritage. Think legacy. Think forward.”

Enamhe also urged Gov. Otu to continue to do all in his power to settle the communal crisis between the Ukelle people and the Izzis of Ebonyi State as well as the crisis between the people of Obudu and the Tivs in Benue State as well as in
Isobendeghe, Obubra.

“The security of your people continues to be paramount.
Let’s create a buffer zone in the boundary between Ukele in Yala Cross River State and Izzi, Ebonyi State
Gakem in Bekwarra, Cross River, and Vandeikya, Benue state.

“To every listener here today – whether you walk the red earth of Obudu or stride the pavements of Paris, from Gakem to Geneva, from Obanliku to Oklahoma
Calabar to California, Boki/Ikom forests to the Amazons or Australia, Obubra, Yala or to sunder lands – carry this banner in your heart:
Whether at home or abroad, think Cross River! Because home is not a boundary; it’s a bond,” Enamhe said.

Enamhe also harped on the need for the creation of states and the governor’s efforts to address state issues.

He said, “And until it pleases the Federal Government to create a Calabar state or an Ogoja state, let this thought continue to resonate with us. This is the best possible period for the Think Cross River mantra to catch on.

“With Governor Otu’s pan-Cross River outlook, his across-the-state development strides, prompt and wholehearted support to the who-is-who in Northern Cross River forum to repatriate the seemingly forgotten remains of late Elder Statesman and Nigeria’s former Senate President, Dr Joseph Wayas, from a London morgue back home for proper burial within record time after assumption of office, speaks volumes of the governor’s commitment to serving Cross River notwithstanding tribe, status or location.

“Let us therefore, together with His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, continue to think of Cross River. All Cross Riverians say so! WHETHER AT HOME OR ABROAD, LET’S THINK CROSS RIVER!!.”

Those who attended the convention were: the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal,
Gov. Bassey Otu of C’River, his
Wife, Bishop Eyoawan Bassey Otu.

Also in attendance were: the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, the Commissioner for Information, Dr Erasmus Ekpang,
The President of CRID,
Ambassador Christopher Lekam, and the
Chairman, Boki Local Government Area, Eti Eka Beatrice Nyiam.

 

By Dianabasi Effiong

The Cross River Government has signed an asset sale agreement with Biase Plantations Limited, a subsidiary of Wilmar International to revive abandoned plantation asset.

The formal signing took place at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Calabar.

According to a statement by Nsa Gill,
Chief Press Secretary to Gov. Bassey Otu, the agreement transfers ownership of more than 8,500 hectares of land and assets to Wilmar for full rehabilitation and productive use.

The estate was formerly managed by Enghuat Industries Limited under the defunct Cross River Estates Limited.

Describing the event as a historic Gov. Otu said that the move represented his administration’s determination to restore and activate legacy assets while shifting business operations into the hands of capable professionals.

He said, “It’s very clear that government is not good at managing businesses. We are here today because we want to restore value to what was once a thriving economic asset.

“Wilmar has demonstrated the expertise and integrity we need in this partnership.”

Gov. Otu also alleged that previous operators failed to meet agreed terms, leading to disillusionment in host communities and degradation of vital infrastructure.

The governor also lauded the role of mediators who helped to facilitate the transition.

He emphasised the government’s readiness to support Wilmar through infrastructure, energy development, and community integration.

He called on Wilmar to intensify its smallholders scheme to include local farmers in Biase and Akamkpa and urged the company to consider siting a palm oil refinery within the state to maximise local value addition.

“We want our people to benefit directly from this project, not just through jobs, but through the entire agricultural value chain,” he said, adding that the State remained the safest and most investment-ready sub-national in Nigeria.

Similarly, the Attorney General of the State, Ededem Ani, said that the agreement fulfilled governor Otu’s promise to reclaim and revive the state’s legacy investments.

“A portion of the reclaimed land has now been allocated to Biase Plantations Limited. Compensation has been paid, and today, we are executing a new asset sale agreement for the benefit of our people,” Ani said.

Also, Wilmar Africa CEO, Mr. Santosh Pillai, who led the company’s delegation, expressed gratitude for the renewed partnership.

He recalled Wilmar’s initial entry into Cross River State 14 years ago and highlighted the company’s achievements since then.

“We are the largest private employer in Cross River with over 5,000 staff and the largest taxpayer.

“We are proud of our track record and are committed to developing the Ibiae and Kalaro oil palm estates to global standards,” he said.

Pillai also pledged to maintain Wilmar’s tradition of strong community engagement, including scholarship programs, school and clinic construction, and smallholder development schemes.

He assured host communities that the company would continue to build peaceful and productive relationships, as it had done with 28 other communities across the state.

With a land bank of 28,000 hectares, Wilmar plans to transform the newly allocated land into a world-class plantation.

Government officials, traditional rulers, community representatives, and private sector stakeholders present at the event separately expressed optimism about the renewed partnership’s potential to drive inclusive economic growth in Cross River.

 

By Bassey Asuquo

Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  The entire Cross River State Muslim Community under the leadership of Alhaji Sarki Lawan Garba has endorsed Gov Bassey Edet Otu for second term.

The Muslims cited Gov. Otu’s  ability to promote peace, security, Road Infrastructure Development,national unity and good governance in the state as the reasons for the endorsement.

The Muslims Community Leader in Cross River state Alhaji Sarki Lawan Garba, told Gov Otu that “we have cause to thank Allah for the fact that you have established the most essential aspect of governance, that is, security of lives and property.”

Sarki thanked the Governor for road infrastructure development in Cross River state promise their prayers for his administration and the country.

He reassured that the state would remain peaceful and secure for every resident irrespective of tribe or religious differences,under Governor Otu Government.

 

By Dianabasi Effiong

Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  As part of efforts to reposition Cross River as a major player in global agricultural exports, Gov. Bassey Otu has received the revised Produce Law Report alongside a comprehensive 7-year Strategic Development Plan for Cocoa, Oil Palm, and Coffee.

The presentation—developed by the Multi-Stakeholder Committee on Strategic Plan Development—outlines a transformative roadmap to establish Cross River as a global hub for sustainable, traceable agro-production.

Commending the committee for its dedication and professionalism, Governor Otu described the submission as a vital step toward the economic revitalization of the state.

“I am impressed by the depth and clarity of this plan. You have worked tirelessly to deliver on your mandate, and your efforts are highly commendable,” the Governor remarked.

“Our administration has always believed that sustainable economic transformation must be anchored in a revitalized, profitable, and globally competitive agricultural sector. Today’s presentation serves as a blueprint for realizing that vision.”

The strategic plan envisions Cross River’s emergence as a global leader in sustainable cocoa, coffee, and oil palm production, with a strong focus on traceability, certification, and export readiness.

To ensure immediate follow-through, Governor Otu announced several actionable steps, including the development of a detailed implementation roadmap within six weeks. He further disclosed that the revised Produce Inspection Services Bill will be fast-tracked through the State House of Assembly to provide necessary legislative backing, while the Produce Inspection Board will be constituted within three months.

Additionally, a dedicated Cash Crop Development Agency is to be established and made operational within four months to drive implementation and coordination efforts. The Governor also revealed that by July 2025, the state will commence active engagement with investors and stakeholders toward the launch of new agricultural estates.

Governor Otu expressed gratitude to development partners—including the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research, Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, FAO-FOLUR, Lutheran World Relief (TRACE Project), and Propcom+—for their technical support and contributions to the strategic plan.

“Together, let us build a Cross River that feeds, employs, exports, and thrives—beginning with the soil beneath our feet,” the Governor concluded.

Chairperson of the Strategic Committee, Prof. Susan Ohen, highlighted that the roadmap was carefully designed to meet both domestic needs and international export standards.

“We have ensured that traceability and certification benchmarks are embedded in the plan to position our produce for global competitiveness. Over 45 experts contributed to this document, and we committed our best efforts to the growth of Cross River State,” she stated.

Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Johnson Ekpobo, praised the plan’s capacity to completely transform the state’s agricultural landscape, while Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Duke disclosed that the concept for the roadmap originated during a brainstorming session in the Ministry of Commerce aimed at identifying new economic drivers.

“This presentation is the realization of a long-cherished dream,” she noted.

Also speaking at the event, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuquo, a former member of the House of Representatives, urged the Governor to ensure full implementation of the plan without bureaucratic delays.

“This roadmap must be owned and actively executed to deliver tangible results,” he emphasized.

With the unveiling of this strategic roadmap, Cross River State takes a bold step toward becoming a national and global leader in agro-industrial development.