Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State returned to Calabar on Thursday after a three-week annual leave, declaring that he is back with "renewed vigour and a double dose of energy" to fast-track the transformation agenda of his administration.
Addressing an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, aides, and top government officials at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, the Governor expressed joy at being back home and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on his development promises.
He described the short break as a refreshing pause that has sharpened his focus and re-energized him for the tasks ahead.
“We have a manifesto to fulfil, and I believe that by the second year, we can already claim that some of those promises are becoming reality,” Governor Otu said. “I missed all of you dearly, and I return stronger and clearer in my objectives.”
He noted that the foundational work done by his administration in the past year is already yielding results, likening it to seeds that have been planted and are now ready to be nurtured for a bountiful harvest. “We have sown the seeds; now we must nurture them for a harvest,” he added.
Governor Otu also used the opportunity to highlight several federal projects now taking root in Cross River State, which he said will play a crucial role in driving economic growth and positioning the state as a major player in Nigeria’s development landscape.
Among the key initiatives mentioned was the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, a project he described as a game-changer for the state’s agricultural sector.
He also celebrated the long-anticipated commencement of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which he called a historic development that will connect Cross River more deeply into Nigeria’s economic grid.
“The President of the African Development Bank and Nigeria’s Vice President are set to visit the state for the groundbreaking of a new Export Processing Economic Zone—a transformative initiative that will reshape Cross River’s economy and create new opportunities for jobs and investment,” Otu revealed.
He emphasized that his administration will ensure inclusiveness and openness, stressing that every resident of Cross River will have a chance to participate in the state’s economic revival.
“There will be open opportunities for everyone to engage in this economic revival. The sky is the limit for Cross River,” the Governor stated.
Otu's return has already stirred fresh excitement within political and development circles in the state, as stakeholders anticipate a renewed push toward the Governor’s “People First” agenda and broader economic reforms.
As his second year in office approaches, expectations are rising for a more accelerated rollout of infrastructure projects, job creation programs, and investments in key sectors.
With federal backing and local momentum building, Cross River appears to be on the cusp of a significant transformation—one that the Governor says he is now more than ready to lead with full force.