The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, has described the twin honours earned by Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, the conferment of a Doctorate (Honoris Causa) by Modibbo Adama University, Yola, and The Sun Newspaper’s ‘Governor of the Year’ Award, as national recognition of a leadership style rooted in good governance, institutional strength, and responsible stewardship of public resources.
Barr. Agbor said the simultaneous honours reflect an administration that has prioritised structure over spectacle and systems over shortcuts, particularly in the deliberate effort to restore value, order, and accountability to the management of state-owned assets.
According to him, Governor Otu’s approach to governance has redefined how public assets are viewed, not as expendable holdings, but as strategic instruments for development, service delivery, and intergenerational equity.
“These recognitions affirm that sustainable governance is built on strong institutions and careful stewardship,” Agbor stated. “Under His Excellency’s leadership, Cross River State has chosen to strengthen systems, enforce responsibility, and ensure that public assets work for the people.”
He noted that the administration’s asset management and recovery drive has been guided by clarity of purpose, transparency of process, and a commitment to converting dormant or mismanaged assets into productive contributors to the state’s economic and social development.
Barr. Agbor further observed that Governor Otu’s dedication of the honours to Cross Riverians at home and in the diaspora reflects an understanding that governance is a collective enterprise and that public resources must be managed in trust for the people.
“In dedicating these honours to the people, the governor reaffirmed that leadership is stewardship,” he said.
“It is about safeguarding commonwealth today while securing opportunity for tomorrow.”
The Special Adviser emphasized that the governor’s insistence on strengthening institutions has created a governance environment where policies are implemented with continuity, accountability, and measurable outcomes.
“These honours are not endpoints but reinforcements,” Barr. Agbor added.
“They reinforce the responsibility to deepen reforms, optimise public assets, and institutionalise governance practices that will endure beyond individuals and administrations.”
He concluded by congratulating Governor Otu on the double honours, expressing confidence that the administration’s legacy will be defined by systems strengthened, assets recovered, value restored, and public trust renewed.
