The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has described Governor Bassey Otu as a visionary leader whose policies have transformed rural roads and healthcare, framing his 67th birthday as a moment of reflection on governance rather than mere festivity. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Hon. Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, and Secretary, Dr. Julius Ochim Okputu, the forum said the occasion, marked on Sunday, 18 October 2026, offered an opportunity to assess the tangible impact of the administration’s “People First” agenda on ordinary residents.
According to the group, the administration’s achievements span infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and economic revitalisation — with hundreds of kilometres of roads constructed or rehabilitated, over 100 primary healthcare centres revitalised, more than 2,000 health professionals recruited, and free maternal and child care services introduced. The CRSCF also cited the consistent payment of WAEC fees for tens of thousands of indigenous students between 2024 and 2026, the establishment of new tertiary institutions, and the distribution of mini-tractors and improved seedlings under Project GROW as evidence of a deliberate focus on human capital development.
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Beyond the scorecard, the forum highlighted what it called the broader vision of a secured and peaceful state, anchored on agricultural transformation, tourism revival and the blue economy — pointing to the recovery of Tinapa Business and Resort, the expansion of Cally Air, progress on the Obudu Cargo Airport, and ongoing efforts to reenlist Cross River as an oil-producing state. For many residents, however, the most relatable gains remain the rural access roads and free maternal care, which the group says have eased daily burdens for families in underserved communities.
The CRSCF prayed for renewed strength, sound health and divine favour for the governor as he consolidates these gains. The statement described the birthday as a moment of joy, peace and outstanding success in the service of the people — a sentiment that echoes the administration’s insistence that governance should be measured by its impact on the lives of the governed.
Whether that record translates into sustained public goodwill remains the real test as Governor Otu enters another year in office.
