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Tag: Prince Bassey Otu

  • Cross River State LG Polls: Orok Duke attends APC state caucus meeting, congratulates chairmanship candidates

    Cross River State LG Polls: Orok Duke attends APC state caucus meeting, congratulates chairmanship candidates

     

    The Commissioner representing Cross River State on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, on Monday 14th October, 2024 attended the caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Calabar.

    The meeting presided over by the state governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, was part of preparations by the ruling Party for the November 2nd local government elections.

    The APC had opted for a consensus arrangement to produce candidates for the chairmanship and councillorship positions in the 18 local government areas and across the 196 political wards in the state, emphasizing on an all-inclusive and equitable process that ensures justice and fairness.

    Having worked assiduously to superintend over a seamless and rancour-free process in which every party man and woman was carried along in his ward 5, Calabar South local government area, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke was fulfilled to listen attentively as the governor announced names of candidates for the 18 LGAs that emerged through consensus.

    Read Also: Rivers Assembly Crisis Deepens As Pro-Fubara Lawmakers Reject Vacancy Declaration

    Satisfied with the entire process, the former deputy speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly lauded Governor Bassey Otu for his statesmanship and foresight that delivered such a peaceful and acceptable party primary.

    While congratulating all the APC chairmanship candidates, especially the one for Calabar South, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke expressed confidence that they would come out victorious in the actual election slated for November 2nd, 2024.

    He then used the opportunity to appeal to Cross Riverians to rally round all the candidates of the APC in order to step down to the grassroots and accelerate the People’s First governance agenda of the Party.

  • Project Grow will concentrate wealth in the hands of farmers rather than middlemen, C’River Gov

    Project Grow will concentrate wealth in the hands of farmers rather than middlemen, C’River Gov

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Determined to ensure that farmers in Cross River reap maximum returns on their efforts and labour in the production of agricultural goods, the state governor, Prince Bassey Otu has came up with plans to help farmers increase their revenue over middlemen who buy-off their produce and sell at a higher price without going through the toils involved in farming.

    The plans unfolded Wednesday at the flagging-off of the cultivation of 2,000 hectares of commercial maize farming in Odukpani Local Government Area, under the Project Grow Initiative of the state government.

    Speaking during the ceremony, governor Otu said the initiative was designed to curb food insecurity and create a sustainable economy in the state by having farmers cultivate and companies like Flour Mills off-take it.

    He said the Project was a testament to what resilience could achieve, noting that the occasion was symbolic to celebrate the commencement of mechanical planting of maize over a commercial area of 2,000 hectares.

    READ ALSO: Project Grow will put Cross River farmers on the map of prosperity – Commissioner for Agriculture

    The governor who was represented by Mrs Glory Effiong, the state accountant general, said “It is expected that after 6 years, this project would allow the market players in each of the value chain to understand themselves and engage independently while bringing our people into the money system to tackle multidimensional poverty.

    “It is my dream that every resident of Cross River will live above poverty line because the Nigerian economy has shown a wide gap between the rich and the poor but this initiative aims to bridge it.”

    Also speaking, the Director of Project Grow, Mr Dennis Ikpali said in the past, farmers in the state planted maize at subsistence level but Project Grow was helping them commercialize the whole process by cultivating 2,000 hectares of land.

    Ikpali said the maize acquired by Project Grow was early maturing, high yielding, disease and drought resistant and had the capacity of producing four tons of maize per hectare.

    “This means that within four months of planting, the 2,000 hectares of land has the capacity to generate 8,000 tons of maize and by market computation where a ton of maize is N600,000, we are looking at 10 to 12 billion naira income flowing through the system,” he said.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Mary Ayi who was given a hectare said she used to plant cassava but was ready to go into commercial cultivation of maize because of its shorter duration, adding that she would plough back whatever she got to enlarge her farm.

    Another indigene of Odukpani, Nsa Okon, said he was quite satisfied with the implementation process of Project Grow while calling on those yet to receive their portions to be patient as the implementation was in phases.

    Project Grow is a market driven initiative aimed at stimulating private sector investment in key agricultural value chains such as maize, rice, cassava, aquaculture and animal fodder. For effective cultivation of the land under the initiative, each farmer would receive N1 million loan from partner commercial banks and upon harvesting, the maize would be off-taken by Flour Mills Nigeria, another key partner of the project.

  • Cross River South Consultative Forum Congratulates President Tinubu and Governor Otu on their Remarkable Achievements on Occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Celebration

    Cross River South Consultative Forum Congratulates President Tinubu and Governor Otu on their Remarkable Achievements on Occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Celebration

    On this historic occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) extends heartfelt congratulations to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Bassey Edet Otu. Their visionary leadership and transformative policies have undoubtedly propelled Nigeria and Cross River towards a path of prosperity and development.

    President Tinubu’s administration has, within a short time, implemented far-reaching reforms that have significantly impacted Nigeria’s fiscal and economic landscape. His administration has doubled aggregate government revenues to over 9.1 trillion Naira and reduced the debt service burden from 97% to 68%, freeing up resources for critical national projects. The resurgence of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, with oil production now at 1.61 million barrels per day, is a testament to the President’s efforts to revitalize the economy. Furthermore, the launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative and distribution of one million conversion kits to commercial vehicles have drastically reduced transportation costs by approximately 60%.

    In the education sector, the establishment of the student loan scheme and allocation of N50 billion to support students’ financial needs exemplifies President Tinubu’s commitment to empowering the youth. The administration’s economic policies, including the launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP), have created unprecedented opportunities for the nation’s youth, positioning Nigeria for future growth and competitiveness.

    In Cross River State, Governor Otu has demonstrated exemplary leadership in transforming the socio-economic fabric of the state. His administration’s decision to release N10 billion to offset outstanding gratuities and pensions has brought much-needed relief to retirees, showcasing his commitment to the welfare of state workers and pensioners. Additionally, the ongoing recruitment into the state civil service is a bold step towards tackling unemployment, creating opportunities for the youth, and strengthening governance in Cross River State.

    Governor Otu has also revolutionized agriculture with the inauguration of a 50,000-hectare large-scale rice farming initiative, aiming to enhance food security and boost the state’s economy. The dualization of critical roads such as the Zone 6 NNPC and Tank Farm Road in Calabar, along with the ongoing asphalt resurfacing of metropolitan roads, reflects his administration’s focus on infrastructure renewal.

    Governor Otu’s drive for economic revival is further evidenced by the $3.5 billion funding secured for key infrastructure projects such as the Bakassi Deep Seaport and Superhighway, which will transform Cross River into a hub of economic activity and development. His commitment to food security and job creation through the procurement of 108 units of three-wheel agricultural tractors is expected to generate 1,080 direct jobs.

    On this momentous Independence Day, the Cross River South Consultative Forum salutes President Tinubu and Governor Otu for their visionary leadership and transformative achievements. We are confident that under their stewardship, both Nigeria and Cross River State will continue to witness unprecedented growth, development, and prosperity.

    As we celebrate 64 years of independence, we remain hopeful that the future holds even greater promises for our beloved nation and state.

    Signed:

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq
    Sir Maurice Effiwatt
    Prof Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.
    Apostle (Hon) James Anam
    Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon
    Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu
    Hon. (Chief) Ani Esin
    Hon Joseph Etene, Esq
    Hon (Mrs) Abigail Duke
    Barr. Bassey Mensah
    Chief Felix Idem
    Prince Edwin Okon
    Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna
    Hon Charles Atu

    Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF)
    Date: 1st October 2024
    Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

  • Open Letter to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu: Political Marginalization of Awi Ward in Akamkpa 1 State Constituency

    Open Letter to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu: Political Marginalization of Awi Ward in Akamkpa 1 State Constituency

    Your Excellency,
    Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu,
    Executive Governor of Cross River State,

    We are pleased to address this letter to Your Excellency and the esteemed stakeholders of Cross River State and Akamkpa Local Government Area. First and foremost, we commend your resilience and exemplary leadership over the past year. Your commitment to steering the affairs of Cross River State has not gone unnoticed, and we extend our sincere congratulations once again.

    As the governor of our renowned state,  we kindly implore your attention to our concern here, Your Excellency, Sir.

    Akamkpa Local Government is divided into two constituencies: Akamkpa 1 State Constituency and Akamkpa 2 State Constituency. Akamkpa 1 consists of the following wards: Iko, Uyanga, Akamkpa Urban, Mbarakom, and Awi.

    Over the years, every ward in Akamkpa 1 State Constituency, except Awi, has benefited from both elective positions and key appointments. Sadly, Awi Ward has been overlooked, and the facts speak for themselves. We have been marginalized politically, even in appointments.

    While we understand that multiple factors influence the emergence of elected officials and political appointments, we firmly believe that it is time for Awi Ward to be given its due consideration. With utmost respect, we remind Your Excellency that Awi Ward showed unwavering support and loyalty during your campaign for governor. A vast majority of our people are ardent supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Yet, despite our dedication, we are disillusioned and demoralized by the agitation from other wards that have consistently held the position of Local Government Chairman. We feel shortchanged, and our contributions to your administration and the APC are underappreciated.

    Aside from this, Your Excellency, you are a product of Zoning. Zoning, though not constitutionally enshrined, is a respected principle through a gentleman’s agreement. In the case of Akamkpa 1, we firmly believe it is Awi Ward’s turn to produce the next Local Government Chairman.

    Let us examine political office holders from all the  wards in Akamkpa 1:

    ✓IKO WARD

    1. Rt. Hon. Matthew Olory – Local Government Chairman

    2. Rt. Hon. Matthew Olory – Member, Cross River State House of Assembly

    3. Chief. Eno Etan – Caretaker Committee Chairman

    4. Hon. Usor Etan Obun – Leader of Council

    ✓ UYANGA WARD

    1. Chief. Dr. Prince Orok Agbor – House of Representatives

    2. Hon. Mrs. Angela Effiong (two terms) – Vice Chairman of Council

    3. Hon. Mrs. Mary Ankpo Pius – Vice Chairman of Council

    4. Late Barr. Patrick Abakum – Caretaker Committee Chairman
    5. Hon. Patrick Iterim- member Cross River State House of Assembly

    ✓ AKAMKPA URBAN

    1. Ntufam. Francis Effiong (Efisco) – Chairman of Council (2 term)

    2. Rt. Hon. Ntufam Daniel Asuquo – Chairman of Council

    3. Late Hon. Alex Asikpo – Member, Cross River State House of Assembly

    4. Hon. John Bassey – Leader of Council

    5. Rt. Hon. Ntufam. Daniel Asuquo – Member, House of Representative (3 term)

    6. Hon. Ntufam Okon Nyong Owuna – Member Cross River State House of Assembly

    ✓ MBARAKOM WARD

    1. Barr. Clement Itotup – Chairman of Council

    2. Hon. Victor Okon – Cross River State House of Assembly

    3. Barr. Joseph Asuquo Itotup – Chairman of Council

    4. Rt. Hon. Itaya Asuquo Nyong – Member, Cross River State House of Assembly, and Deputy Speaker

    5. Hon. Paulinus  Onok Effa – Leader of Council

    ✓ AWI WARD
    Nil

    Your Excellency, the marginalization of Awi Ward is evident. We ask that you kindly investigate and confirm the facts presented here, as “the King has many ears.”

    In light of this, we humbly request that you address our concerns and restore balance in the distribution of elective positions. We urge you not to allow the influence of other wards in Akamkpa 1 to sideline the zoning arrangement, especially when it comes to the Chairmanship of Akamkpa Local Government. The people of Awi Ward have earned the right to their fair share of representation.

    We trust in your capacity to address this injustice, and we are confident that you have the welfare of all Cross Riverians at heart. Let the benefits of your leadership reach every corner of the state, including Awi Ward.

    Finally, we also appeal to Your Excellency to consider us in future state appointments. Other wards have already been well-represented in your administration, and we ask that Awi Ward not be left behind.

    We have no other recourse but this peaceful and respectful appeal, as Awi people are peace-loving citizens.

    Sincerely,
    Mr. Ekib Edet Okpa

    For The People of Awi Ward, Akamkpa 1 State Constituency

  • Governor Otu’s Prompt Assent To CROSIEC Bill, A Commendable Response To IPAC’s Counsel

    Governor Otu’s Prompt Assent To CROSIEC Bill, A Commendable Response To IPAC’s Counsel

    The leadership of the Inter Party Advisory Council,IPAC hereby commends the Governor of Cross River State for expeditiously assenting to the new CROSIEC law.

    Recall that in our last World Press Conference, IPAC had asked the Governor to promptly assent to the Bill in order to lend credence to the much anticipated Local Government Elections in the State.

    With his assent to the Bill a few days ago, every obstacle is now removed as CROSIEC called for a meeting with Political Parties and other stakeholders aimed at kick-starting the process that would ultimately culminate in the conduct of local government elections in Cross River State.

    IPAC therefore expresses her readiness to partner with CROSIEC and calls on all the 19 political parties to participate in the forthcoming Local Government Elections. We equally call on the good people of our dear state to get involved in the process that will herald grassroots governance.

    Engr. Effiom Edet Okon
    Chairman,IPAC CRS

    Comrade Frederick Eje Omari
    Secretary, IPAC, CRS

    25/9/2024

  • Edo 2024: Cross River South Consultative Forum Congratulates Gov Otu, Okpebholo

    Edo 2024: Cross River South Consultative Forum Congratulates Gov Otu, Okpebholo

    … Says Season of Sweetness Sweeps through Southern Nigeria

    The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Senator Monday Okpebholo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa on their resounding victory in the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election. This triumph marks a significant milestone for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the great people of Edo State.

    We also extend our profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose visionary leadership continues to strengthen the APC across the nation. This victory, the second to be midwifed by Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, since the 2023 general Elections, is a testament to the President’s commitment to the unity and growth of Nigeria, ensuring the continuity of progressive governance in Edo State.

    Equally, we salute His Excellency, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, the Chairman of the APC National Campaign Council for the Edo State election. This success is a historical feat, as Governor Otu has become the first APC governor in Nigeria to produce two APC governors in both his geopolitical zone (Edo) and the south east (Imo state). His exemplary leadership, dedication, and political acumen in overseeing these two campaigns have indeed paved the way for especially this momentous achievement in Edo state.

    Furthermore, we commend the collective efforts of all APC stakeholders who contributed to this victory, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Governor Lucky Oyedatiwa of Ondo State, and many other party leaders. Your unity, diligence, and commitment have brought about this significant success for our great party.

    The CRSCF reaffirms its support for the APC’s progressive agenda and remains confident that the newly elected leaders in Edo State will deliver on their promises, driving development and prosperity for the indigenes and residents of the state.

    Congratulations once again to Senator Monday Okpebholo, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the entire APC family and Edo state.

    Signed,

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq
    Sir Maurice Effiwatt
    Prof Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.
    Apostle (Hon) James Anam
    Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon
    Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu
    Hon. ( Chief) Ani Esin
    Hon Joseph Etene, Esq
    Hon (Mrs) Abigail Duke
    Barr. Bassey Mensah
    Chief Felix Idem
    Prince Edwin Okon
    Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna
    Hon Charles Atu

  • Gov Otu suspends interviews for shortlisted applicants in Secondary Education Board

    Gov Otu suspends interviews for shortlisted applicants in Secondary Education Board

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has ordered the immediate suspension of interviews for shortlisted candidates that applied for teaching jobs in the Secondary Education Board.

    The governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nsa Gill, on Monday, cited the absence of a constituted board as reason for the suspension.

    The statement reads,

    “His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has instructed the immediate suspension of the scheduled interviews for teaching positions at the Secondary Education Board, announced by the Director of Administration of the Board.

    Read Also: Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke: Championing Gender Equality and Women Empowerment in Cross River State

    “The due constitution of the State Secondary Education Board is receiving Government attention. The action of the Director of Administration scheduling ” employment interviews is unauthorized as it is inappropriate for one individual to assume the responsibilities of the entire Board.

    “Therefore, the interviews are hereby postponed, and the Director of Administration is directed to promptly meet with the Secretary to the State Government.”

    The press release
  • You are a champion of justice, Bakassi people hail Gov Otu

    You are a champion of justice, Bakassi people hail Gov Otu

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    People of Bakassi local government area have showered encomiums on the Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, describing him as a champion of justice.

    The commendation follows the governor’s declaration that the state government would no longer accept the idea of the displaced Bakassi people living as refugee in their own land.

    Speaking during the official signing and endorsement ceremony for the Bakassi Deep Seaport project by stakeholders in Calabar on Thursday, gov Otu particularly expressed concern about the plight of Bakassi people who over the years have been alienated in their own land and forced to live as refugee, and therefore demanded an end to it.

    Applauding the governor for the bold declaration, the Paramount Ruler of Bakassi, HRM (Dr) Etim Okon Edet, at a press conference in Calabar on Friday, said that governor Otu has given the Bakassi people a future they had long yearned for. He commended the people of Bakassi for their courage, determination and resilience, which according to him, has paid off.

    Read Also: EDO GUBER: Two Suspected Political Thugs Arrested With Firearms

    “I salute you O Bakassi people. I salute your courage, your resilience. I salute your determined spirit. When all else beareth chains, when part of your home was taken away from you, your heart became your home and only sanctuary in a devastating world. Apart from the children of Israel, you are the next courageous and most determined race on earth.

    “The Exodus of the Hebrews from the hands of their cruel task-masters is one of the most triumphant stories in the Old Testament history and the book of Exodus is an amazing book. It is an epic tale of oppression, deliverance and freedom. But Israel’s bondage in Egypt had disciplined Israel, preparing them to go through the wilderness in order to be in the promised land. Your bondage has indeed prepared you for an exciting future. The future started yesterday by no other person than the State Gov Prince Bassey Otu.

    “My dear Bakassi people and gentlemen of the press, justice has been a universal longing of human heart since the beginning of time. In the most basic context, the ten commandments for example present the idea that wrong doings and violations of others for one’s own benefit is not only a sin against the Creator of the human race, but it is also unacceptable in a civilized society where respect and protection are essential. In our own case, “JUDGEMENT turned away backward and justice standeth afar off, truth fell on the street and equity could not enter”. We are here today to thank Gov Otu for being the CHAMPION OF JUSTICE AND TRUTH IN THE BAKASSI SITUATION.

    “FOR the past 17 years we have faced humanitarian, economic, social, political and security problems. Our welfare and security was no more the primary purpose of government. The devil hates free people. But we have been set free by the blood of the lamb.

    “May God bless Prince Otu. May God bless his family. May we specially thank the Press for their support over the years.

    “In the words of O.J. Sanders, “the eyes that look are common, the eyes that see are rare”.

    “Senator Prince Bassey Otu is the “OTU-EKONG BAKASSI,” he said.

    Throwing more light on the import of the governor’s declaration, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Host Communities, Chief Udeme Okon, explained that “Yesterday (Thursday), the governor made it practically clear to everybody, which is also an established fact from the presidency to the National Boundary Commission, and other institutions, including the traditional institutions, that Bakassi Peninsula was a conglomeration of islands.

    “Those islands were five. Only two were ceded to Cameroon. The remaining three are: Dayspring 1, Dayspring 2 and Qua Island. That’s why the governor said the people cannot be in camp. The traditional rulers cannot govern in a camp. A camp is not a community. Let the people return to the unceded part of the peninsula that remains in Nigeria.

    “That peninsula is going to secure the litoral status of the state because the communities will be litoral and the National Boundary Commission is going to profile and gazette them. Then the 13 percent is paid to the state because the state will now be able to secure the litoral status back. It is not the landlocked environment of Ikang.”

  • LG Chairmen, Councillors to do 4 years as Gov Otu signs amended C’River Electoral Law

    LG Chairmen, Councillors to do 4 years as Gov Otu signs amended C’River Electoral Law

    Governor Bassey Otu has granted assent to the amended Cross River Electoral Law passed by the State House of Assembly.

    The amendment by House of Assembly was necessitated by the Supreme Court’s verdict granting autonomy to local government as well as ensuring that states of the federation to ensure local administrations are headed by elected officials in accordance with the constitution.

    Signing the amended Law, Governor Otu stated: “Let me thank Mr. Speaker and members of the House of Assembly, and of course, our own Electoral Commission for making sure that we have an up-to-date act that is ready to put the third tier of government into office.

    “Local government is very important. That is the government that is closer to the people than any other government that we have in the Federation.

    Read Also: Calabar Festival & Carnival 2024: We Are Bringing New Vitality – CR Govt

    I want to appreciate the fact that you’ve done a good job and I know that Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC), as they are going, they are going to announce the date for the election and people will be ready; so that we will follow the rules of the game,” adding that, “We want this particular segment of our government to be active so that the dividends of democracy will trickle right down to the downtrodden and the people who need it most.”

    The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem told newsmen that “what we have done today is in line with the Supreme Court judgment that was passed ab initio, and the Otu-led government being a proactive one, decided that the third tier government must come up almost immediately.”

    “For some time, we have not had the opportunity of having substantive chairmen in their right places of authority. And the governor thought it wise that we need to come up with the conduct of local government election.

    “And the House of Assembly, in her wisdom, looked at the CROSIEC laws land realized that there were some grey areas that needed urgent attention. And those grey areas are the areas that have been largely attended to.

    Speaker Ayambem said one of the most cardinal points tackled in the amended Law was the review of the tenure of office of chairmen and councillors from three to four years on par with their elected officials at the state and federal levels.

    “As the Supreme Court judgment rightly had outlined that the third tier government should enjoy the same status with that of the executive, the status of a governor and the status of a president where they have a tenure of four years in office and not three years at it were. So we looked at it in consonance with the Supreme Court judgment.

    “All that we have done is align strictly with what the Supreme Court has outlined. So we looked at it in consonance with the Supreme Court judgment all that we have done is aligning strictly with what the Supreme Court has outlined,” the Speaker added.

    Rt. Hon. Ayambem reiterated the State Government’s stance on holding local government elections before the end of the year 2024.

  • Think Cross River: We want to bring back the spirit of patriotism in our dear state – Edem Darlington

    Think Cross River: We want to bring back the spirit of patriotism in our dear state – Edem Darlington

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The initiator of Think Cross River, Mr Edem Darlington, has said that the initiative seeks to reignite the spirit of patriotism among Cross Riverians, while also galvanizing support for the government in its effort to deliver good governance to the people.

    Darlington stated this at an interactive session with journalists in Calabar on Wednesday.

    He maintained that Think Cross  initiative is a major advocacy tool for the government to promote the rich tourism potential, and as well as highlights various business and investment opportunities available in the state.

    Beyond this, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor affirmed that at the core of the Think Cross River initiative embedded the message of patriotism, love for one another, prosperity, collective responsibility and social justice for all.

    Read Also: DSS to focus more on covert operations, reduce media engagement —New DG

    According to him, “If you are patriotic, you won’t take up arms against your neighbour. If you are Thinking Cross River there is no way you will see something going wrong around your neighbourhood and you won’t call the security agents. If you are Thinking Cross River, there is no way you will see someone trying to enter your neighbour’s house and you won’t call the police. We are just trying to promote peace, promote unity, promote peaceful coexistence.”

    “It is no news that Cross as a state has a very friendly people. We are naturally very hospitable; and so that is the very first attraction for any serious business or investor. And then too, for a long while we have remained the most peaceful state in the country; and so naturally, Cross River is the darling of every investor who actually wants to put his money and make real gains from it. So this tool is to promote everything about Cross River, and also, very importantly, to call on all Cross Riverians to join hands with the governor, our dearest sweet prince, Senator Prince Bassey Otu and promote what he is doing, support the current administration and also promote everything that has to do with Cross River State.

    “It is a tool to unite Cross Riverians, so whether you are from Cross River or you are living in the state, it doesn’t really matter, but the fact that you are doing business or living here means that you are a Cross Riverian and our governor will always say that. Think Cross River is a tool to unite us as a people and ensure that we are all part of what the government is doing by way of protecting government facilities around your locality, ensuring that you reach out to security agents whenever you see anything going wrong in your area and ensuring also that we keep our environment clean because everything cannot be about government.

    “We as a people, we are also part of what government is doing. We are also part of government. So the actual responsibility must begin with us. It must begin with us. Think Cross River is a tool to galvanize all forms of support for the current administration and even beyond this current administration.

    “However, we also have a way, we are planning on reaching out to some persons by way of promoting what we are trying to do.

    “For example, if a neighbour is there and doesn’t have a job, you can actually reach out and say, okay, what business can we do? We have plans like that and we take from all of this, you know, from our little contributions amongst us. For me, if we remain at peace, if we love ourselves, if we support what the government is doing, then it is good enough. That for me is very important than any other thing,” he emphasized.

    Darlington also used the opportunity to commend governor Bassey Otu for his giant strides in infrastructural development, payment of gratuity to pensioners and ensuring relative peace and security in the state.