Bassey Otu, governor of Cross River, says his administration is committed to sustaining and expanding the development foundations laid by his predecessors.
Otu spoke on Sunday night while switching on the 2025 Christmas tree and festive lights at the Calabar cenotaph.
The governor said the ceremony marked the beginning of the Christmas season and a renewed spirit of unity in governance.
He described Clement Ebri, a former governor of the state, as “the father of modern Cross River”, praising his impact in agriculture, education, health and infrastructure.
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He said Donald Duke “redefined Cross River as Nigeria’s tourism capital,” citing the revival of Obudu Ranch, the establishment of Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) and the creation of Carnival Calabar.
He also applauded Liyel Imoke for “administrative excellence” and reforms in education, rural development and social welfare, adding that Ben Ayade made bold efforts in industrialisation and innovation.
“As we illuminate this city, we celebrate their visions and commit to building on them,” Otu said.
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“My team and I will continue to grow Cross River through human capital development, industrialisation, rural transformation and tourism.”
He urged residents to embrace the Christmas season with optimism and shared purpose.
“May our faith shine as a beacon of renewal and prosperity,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Ebri thanked Otu for sustaining what he called a culture of honour.
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Duke said the Calabar carnival has remained a unifying celebration for people across the state, while Imoke commended Otu for valuing continuity in governance.
“It is uncommon for a governor to look back, identify what is good and build on it,” Imoke said.
Ayade said the event showed that unity remains the hallmark of leadership in the state.
“Today is about acknowledging that Prince Bassey Otu has shown the wisdom to unite us all, beyond party lines,” he said.
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