Calabar –Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has described recent rumours about his demise as “wishful thinking from detractors,” affirming that he remains “hale and hearty as never before.” The governor made this declaration on Thursday during the 6th Executive Council (EXCO) meeting held at the State Council of Chiefs Chambers in Calabar—his first official engagement after returning from annual vacation NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
“Life ultimately belongs to God alone,” the governor stated, adding, “people may speculate, but God’s sovereignty reigns supreme over all else.” He expressed deep appreciation to his deputy, EXCO members, and the people of Cross River for holding the fort during his absence and pledged to return to duty with “a double dose of energy” to continue delivering on his mandate.
In charging members of the council to rededicate themselves to the collective development agenda, Governor Otu emphasized preparation for the forthcoming Executive Council retreat, urging members to ensure active participation.
Following the governor’s remarks, the Executive Council deliberated on critical matters of governance and development, culminating in the ratification of several major projects and initiatives:
Ikom in the spotlight
In a move to ensure regional academic balance following the relocation of the Faculty of Agriculture from Obubra to Okuku, EXCO approved the establishment of a new campus of the University of Cross River State in Ikom. The governor described the decision as aligned with the dreams of the state’s founding fathers.
Recognising Ikom’s growing importance as a commercial link to Cameroon, the council approved the establishment of the Ikom International Market and an International Motor Park to decongest existing facilities. The local community was directed to suggest two suitable locations for immediate inspection.
The governor inaugurated governing councils for the University of Cross River State and the newly accredited University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa, charging them to begin full operations with government support.
EXCO approved the payment of ₦662.5 million in arrears to ZIPLINE Drone Logistics Services, underscoring the state’s continued reliance on drone technology for essential health and logistics services in hard-to-reach areas.
Approval was granted for the installation of Cool-Cover Hydro-Solar Car Ports with lithium battery storage at the official residences of the Deputy Governor, Speaker, and Deputy Speaker, as part of Cross River’s green energy transition.
The council approved a collateral funding facility through Zenith Bank or an alternate commercial bank to implement the Urban Water Rehabilitation Project.
– Purchase of eight official vehicles from ADRAFF Motors Ltd.
– Ratification of a court-mediated settlement with ENGHAUT Industries Ltd (Suit No. HC/162/2025).
– Further construction works at the Governor’s Lodge, Calabar.
– Distribution of laptops to EXCO members by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Governor Otu reaffirmed his commitment to reposition Carnival Calabar as a global cultural brand. He expressed optimism in the work of the rebranding committee, promising a commercially viable and modernized version of the festival in line with international standards.
Governor Otu commended President Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Works Engr. Dave Umahi for flagging off the Calabar segment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He hailed the project as a life-changing initiative that will restore Calabar’s maritime glory.
