Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has made his return to Calabar following a three-week annual leave, saying that he is back with “renewed vigour and a double dose of energy” aimed at accelerating the state’s transformation.
Addressing supporters and government officials at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar on Thursday, the Governor reiterated his dedication to fulfilling his administration’s development agenda, noting that his short break has refreshed him for enhanced service.
He said, “We have a manifesto to fulfil, and I believe that by the second year, we can already claim some of those promises are becoming reality. I missed all of you dearly, and I return stronger and clearer in my objectives.”
Otu emphasised that the solid groundwork laid by his administration is starting to pay off. “We have sown the seeds; now we must nurture them for a harvest,” he remarked.
He also highlighted the arrival of significant federal initiatives in the state, including the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone project and the long-awaited commencement of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He characterized these as historic advancements that will fully integrate Cross River into Nigeria’s economic framework.
“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.”
“There will be open opportunities for everyone to engage in this economic revival. The sky is the limit for Cross River,” Otu remarked.
Emem Julius, Punch Newspaper
