PHOTO: Cross River Governor, Bassey Otu
By: Ndidi Okafor
The Cross River State Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Ntufam Ekum Ekok Ojogu, has congratulated the state governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu for the conferment of Honorary Doctorate Degree on him by Modibbo Adama University (MAU) Yola, in recognition of his far-reaching to contributions to governance, public service and humanitarian development across Nigeria.
According to the Vice-Chancellor (VC) of MAU, Professor Ibrahim Umar, Governor Otu will receive the Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa), a distinction reserved for individuals whose influence transcends professional boundaries to positively shape social development and national cohesion.
The Cross River APC in a statement by its publicity secretary, Hon Emmanuel Edem Inyang, noted that “The approval of the award by the University Senate and Governing Council affirms what Cross Riverians already know, that your leadership is anchored on integrity, inclusion, people centred policies, and a humane approach to governance.
“Governor Otu’s administration continues to reflect the values of service, institutional strengthening, and sustainable development.
“Your role as a bridge-builder and a unifying figure in public life has earned respect within and beyond the borders of Cross River State, making this honour not only timely but also richly deserved.
“The APC in Cross River State is proud to be associated with a leader whose vision transcends politics and whose governance philosophy prioritises the welfare of the people and the future of the state.
“This recognition by Modibbo Adama University further validates your commitment to national cohesion and social development.
“On behalf of the leadership, stakeholders, and members of the All Progressives Congress in Cross River State, we congratulate Your Excellency on this landmark achievement.
“We are confident that this honour will further inspire greater service to humanity and to the good people of Cross River State.
“We celebrate you and wish you continued wisdom, strength, and success in service to our dear state and nation.”
Also in a statement, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, Member representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly, heartily felicitated the governor, saying: “Academic institutions like the Universities only confer Doctorate Degrees on individuals who have proven records of patriotism, valued and far-reaching contributions to governance, public service, probity and service to God and humanity. It was in this regard that the famous Modibbo Adama University, Yola Adamawa State, decided to confer on You, the Degree of Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa), whose conferment is slated for 31st January, 2026 in Yola. I therefore write to express my very hearty congratulations to Your Excellency for being chosen from amongst your peers for the special recognition by the University.
“Undoubtedly, Your Excellency’s hard work, dedication to duty, patriotism, love and bridge-building efforts across the country, have all been noticed by the University, hence, the Senate and Council’s decision to honour you. The conferment further underscores the institution’s collective endorsement of Your Excellency’s overall credentials and your very far-reaching contributions to governance, since you came onto the public space as Governor of Cross River State.
“I urge you to remain ever committed and dedicated to your chosen paths of altruistic service, from which the generality of Cross Riverians and indeed, all Nigerians will continue to benefit from.
“As you add yet, another award and recognition to your achievements, I pray the Almighty God to continue to bless you with robust health in mind and body to enable you to serve God and humanity in the many years ahead.”
