…Cross River South Consultative Forum Holds First Stakeholders Conference
Calabar –In a show of support, the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has passed a vote of confidence on Governor Bassey Otu in respect of the 2027 general election cycle, endorsing his leadership and commending his administration’s achievements. The endorsement came during the forum’s first stakeholders conference held on Sunday at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The motion for the vote of confidence was moved by Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, Chairman of the State Advisory Council, and Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo, Member representing Odukpani State Constituency and Leader of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly. The motion was unanimously adopted by the forum, reflecting the overwhelming support for Governor Otu’s leadership.
“Governor Otu has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a clear vision for Cross River state. We are confident in his ability to continue delivering on his promises and transforming our state,” Prof. Nyong stated.
Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq., Chairman of the CRSCF, lauded Governor Otu for his exceptional leadership and transformative impact on the state. He recounted the forum’s origins, noting that it was born out of necessity in 2023 to address issues such as political appointments and ensure alignment with the state’s leadership.
“We mobilized to Abuja to meet with our representatives in the National Assembly and our ministers to demand absolute loyalty to Governor Bassey Otu as the captain of the ship of Cross River State. We are pleased that they agreed with our demands,” Ekpo stated.
He highlighted the Governor’s humility, commitment to grassroots development, and focus on infrastructure, electricity, and youth empowerment as key factors driving his popularity among the people.
“For the first time, I have seen a governor who connects so deeply with the masses. His humility and dedication to the ‘People First’ mantra are unparalleled. Roads are being constructed, electricity is reaching remote villages, and young people are being empowered. This is the essence of governance,” Ekpo added.
Sir Maurice Effiwatt, Secretary of the CRSCF, emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the success of the administration’s initiatives.
“This is our time as the Southern Senatorial District, and we must make the most of it. We must support the Governor in his efforts to develop our region and create a legacy that will benefit future generations,” Effiwatt said.
The forum highlighted several achievements of the Otu administration, including:
– Infrastructure Development: Construction and rehabilitation of roads across the state, including the 12.5km road in Ogoja and the Yache-Wanokom-Wanikade road in Yala.
– Electricity Projects: Provision of transformers and rural electrification initiatives to address long-standing power challenges.
– Youth Empowerment: Programs aimed at creating opportunities for young people and fostering economic growth.
– Agricultural Investments: Boosting productivity through support for farmers and agricultural initiatives.
The conference concluded with a call for continued collaboration and strategic planning to address the challenges facing the state. The forum pledged to work closely with the Governor and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of development projects and policies.
Present at the meeting were Etubom Nya Asuquo, former Ambassador of Nigeria; Prof. Ivara Esu; Ntufam Eyo Nsa Willey; Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong; Ntufam John Okon; Ntufam Edim Inok; Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong of the University of Calabar; Hon. Abigail Duke, the State’s Commissioner for Commerce; Hon. Stanley Nsemo; Hon. Francis Ovat; and a host of others.Present at the meeting were Etubom Nya Asuquo, former Ambassador of Nigeria; Prof. Ivara Esu; Ntufam Eyo Nsa Willey; Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong; Ntufam John Okon; Ntufam Edim Inok; Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong of the University of Calabar; Hon. Abigail Duke, the State’s Commissioner for Commerce; all nine legislators representing state constituencies within the Southern Senatorial District including the Leader of the House and Chairman of the Caucus, Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo (Odukpani), Hon. Linus Bassey Etim (Akamkpa II), Hon. Okon Owuna (Akamkpa I), Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey (Akpabuyo), Hon. Eyo Bassey (Bakassi), Hon. Francis Onete Ogban (Biase), Hon. Stanley Bassey Nsemo (Calabar Municipal), Hon. Effiong Ekarika (Calabar South I), and Hon. Victor Nsa (Calabar South II); all members of the State Executive Council from the southern senatorial district, all Director Generals of boards from the south, all local government chairmen from Cross River South, traditional rulers from the south and a host of others.
