By: Vitalis Ugoh, Calabar
The Vice Chairman of the South : Governors’ Forum and governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has noted that “Nigeria is undergoing very serious restructuring; economically and, in particular, in its fiscal responsibility.”
He maintained that “Nigeria as a nation, is turning the corner, and it’s very important that the South-South region aligns right to the center to ensure that the restructuring is correct”.
Speaking to journalists at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar at the weekend upon his return from a national assignment, Otu emphasized that times are tough, but emphasized the need to “bite the bitter pill to be an independent nation.”
He said, “the leadership is working tirelessly to ensure the South-South is properly aligned with the center, pushing beyond politics to achieve genuine restructuring.”
According to the governor, the region is set to chart a new course, driven by unity and a shared vision. “The BRACED Commission has been activated. It serves as what I call the ‘brain unit’ of the South-South, with well-structured master plans to drive development, he noted”.
He urged journalists to look forward to the next South-South Governors’ Forum meeting in Calabar, promising that leaders would unveil a strategic roadmap for the region’s future.
On the recent National Leadership Awards conferred on his Chief of Staff and Commissioners, Governor Otu expressed gratitude to God for the grace to advance Cross River’s development. He affirmed that the state’s commitment to progress is unwavering.
“In Cross River, there is no room for complacency. Any recognition our officials receive is well-deserved,” he said, urging the awardees to see the honor as both a challenge and a call to higher service.
