Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has been recognized with the “Governor of the Year for Economic Transformation” award by Daily Independent Newspaper.
The award acknowledges his visionary leadership, people-centered policies, and strategic efforts to rejuvenate the state’s economy within his first two years in office.
At a grand ceremony held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the award was presented by Chief Bisi Akande, former Osun State Governor and founding chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The event attracted Nigeria’s political, economic, and social elite, including National and State Assembly members from Cross River, members of the State Executive Council, and top government officials.
A statement from Fred Abua, on behalf of the Governor’s Office, said the Acting Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, represented Governor Bassey Otu to receive the award.
The statement highlighted Otu’s commitment to economic revitalization, particularly through the revival of stalled industrial projects initiated by his predecessor.
“Governor Otu is spearheading the revival of key industries such as the Cross River Noodles Factory, Poultry Processing Plant, and the Cross River State Pharmaceutical Company. His administration’s focus on continuity rather than political rivalry underscores a dedication to ensuring these projects contribute to job creation, local production, and increased revenue for the state,” it read.
The administration’s bold infrastructure agenda includes extensive road construction, urban renewal projects, and improved rural connectivity, all aimed at boosting trade, attracting investment, and enhancing the state’s aesthetic appeal.
Additionally, Otu has intensified efforts to transform Cross River’s agricultural sector, launching specialized programs for cassava, cocoa, maize, and oil palm cultivation. Key initiatives include:
A 50,000-acre rice farm in Ogoja and Bekwarra.
A 2,000-acre commercial maize farm in Odukpani.
The revitalization of Songhai farms in Itigidi.
The development of a starch-making plant in Ochon.
Procurement of mini tractors for local farmers to enhance mechanized farming.
These initiatives are strengthening food security while positioning agribusiness as a major driver of the state’s economy.
In the tourism sector, the administration is revamping Cross River’s iconic attractions, including Obudu Cattle Ranch and Tinapa Business Resort, reclaiming state-owned assets from unprofitable concessions, and improving hospitality infrastructure to attract visitors.
Security has also been a priority, with the government’s collaboration with security agencies helping to restore peace, making Cross River one of the safest states in the South-South region and an attractive destination for investors.
Receiving the award on Governor Otu’s behalf, Acting Governor, Odey, dedicated the honor to the people of Cross River, acknowledging their support for the Governor’s vision of economic progress.
This latest recognition adds to Governor Otu’s growing list of accolades, including the 2024 “Most MSME-Friendly Governor” Award and the Michael Okpara Premier Leadership Prize. With these honors, he continues to be regarded as one of Nigeria’s most pragmatic and visionary leaders, positioning Cross River as a model of development.
The event also honored other distinguished personalities, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, recognized as “Woman of the Year,” alongside Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and Customs Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi.
