The Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, on Thursday received the State's Independence baby, born on the nation's 66th Independence anniversary, and assured that the State Government is committed to building a safe, secure and nurturing environment for every child.
Mrs. Otu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, presented gifts to the newborn and mother at the General Hospital, Calabar. She described the birth as a symbol of hope and renewal for the nation and the State.
The gesture was also extended to other newborns and less-privileged families at the Naval Reference Hospital, Calabar, reflecting her commitment to supporting vulnerable members of society and bringing hope to families facing difficult circumstances.
Speaking on her behalf, Cobham said Mrs. Otu congratulated the family and prayed that the child would grow to see a Nigeria and a Cross River State of peace and opportunity.
"Every child born in Cross River State deserves to live in safety, to be healthy, to learn and to dream without fear," he said, adding that the administration of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu remains focused on policies that protect children, strengthen healthcare and expand access to education.
Cobham described Mrs. Otu as "humanity personified," saying her decision to identify with newborns and less-privileged families on Independence Day was consistent with her lifestyle of compassion and service.
"There are certain actions that are synonymous with certain personalities. Her Excellency is humanity personified, and reaching out on a day like this to the less privileged, especially newborn babies and their families, is part of her chosen lifestyle," he said.
He noted that the gesture came at a challenging time for many families, stressing that the assistance would provide both practical support and renewed hope.
"You can see the joy on the faces of those parents. They were not expecting it, but God has always been faithful. I am quite elated to be part of this," he said.
Cobham urged the family to remain hopeful and trust in God, while encouraging beneficiaries to have confidence in the leadership of the State and its commitment to creating a better future for children.
He said the arrival of the baby on Independence Day was symbolic of hope, renewal and a new beginning, stressing that children must be given the care, protection and opportunities needed to thrive.
The outreach, he added, reinforced the message that every child matters and deserves to grow in a safe and supportive environment, as the State continues to place humanity, compassion and the welfare of vulnerable families at the heart of its people-focused agenda.
Some of the mothers, including Mrs. Naomi Mbessan, thanked the Governor's wife and the State Government for the gesture and support.
By Nakanda Iyadim and Daniel Nsa
