Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has assured the people of Obanliku Local Government Area of greater development, declaring that his administration will continue to prioritise infrastructure, tourism, agriculture and economic empowerment in the area, as political leaders, traditional rulers and elders from the local government unanimously endorsed his second-term bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Governor gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving a high-powered delegation of Obanliku stakeholders at his residence in Calabar. The delegation was on a solidarity and appreciation visit to commend what it described as the transformational impact of his administration on the local government and to formally endorse his second-term bid.
Addressing the delegation, Governor Otu described Obanliku as one of the most strategic local government areas in Cross River State, stressing that its enormous tourism and agricultural potential would play a pivotal role in driving the state’s economic diversification agenda.
He disclosed that the State government had successfully resolved issues surrounding the concession of the Obudu Mountain Resort and concluded arrangements with a major investor expected to commence the comprehensive redevelopment of the facility, expressing confidence that “within about one year, you will not recognise the ranch again because of the massive transformation that will take place.”
The Governor added that his administration is simultaneously expanding road infrastructure, improving street lighting and upgrading surrounding communities to create a modern tourism corridor capable of attracting both local and international visitors.
On the economy, Otu said his administration remains committed to building a productive state driven by agriculture, livestock development, entrepreneurship and private-sector investment rather than dependence on government salaries. He insisted that public resources must be prudently managed to guarantee sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.
While acknowledging criticisms from some quarters, he maintained that his administration would not be distracted from its development agenda, emphasising that investments in roads, healthcare, education, security and economic opportunities would continue to take precedence over the indiscriminate distribution of public funds.
The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting Cross River’s economic interests and ensuring that the state receives its rightful entitlements, noting that ongoing reforms have continued to attract national attention and strategic development partnerships. He appreciated the confidence reposed in his administration, congratulated newly appointed Obanliku appointees and assured the delegation that more opportunities would be created as the government continues to consolidate development across the state.
Speaking earlier, elder statesman Barr. Fidelis Ugbo commended Governor Otu for restoring peace, accelerating development and reviving the Obudu Mountain Resort, describing the administration as the most impactful Obanliku has witnessed in recent history.
Ugbo declared that the people of Obanliku were satisfied with the governor’s performance and formally pledged their unwavering support for his re-election in 2027, assuring him that the local government would stand firmly behind his administration.
Also speaking, former Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Mike Aniah, described the gathering as a historic moment for Obanliku, recalling what he termed decades of political marginalisation. He commended Governor Otu for promoting fairness, inclusion and merit through strategic appointments and developmental projects, while appealing for additional appointments for qualified sons and daughters of the area to further deepen inclusion.
His Royal Majesty (HRM) Uchua Amos Item, the Paramount Ruler of Obanliku in his remarks, commended Governor Otu for his proactive administration, noting that it has restored stability to grassroots leadership and renewed public confidence in governance. He also joined other speakers in appealing for increased appointments for his subjects, as well as enhanced government presence in Obanliku.
The Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, thanked the Governor for giving him and the people of Obanliku what he described as an opportunity to “rewrite whatever wrongs” had been made in the past. Acknowledging that no one is perfect, Akpanke said the people had learnt from their shortcomings and would emerge stronger, expressing gratitude to Governor Otu for remembering Obanliku and standing by the truth despite what he described as “all plots and gang-ups” against the people of the area.
Akpanke assured the governor that the political leaders, traditional rulers and stakeholders of Obanliku would continue to stand firmly behind his administration and support its developmental agenda. He also sought the governor’s continued audience for the traditional institution and community leaders to sustain their engagement with the government and deepen the partnership for the progress of Obanliku and Cross River State.
