A Fresh Approach to Governance: Governor Bassey Otu Prioritizes Substance Over Spectacle
In a marked departure from the grandiose project initiatives of his predecessor, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State, Nigeria, has chosen a more pragmatic path. According to his aides, Governor Otu is focused on completing critical projects inherited from past administrations, rather than embarking on new, high-profile ventures. This approach, they argue, is designed to eliminate waste and bring tangible benefits to the community.
Andrea Ekeng Inyang, Chairman of the Forum of Special Assistants, shed light on Governor Otu’s strategy during a Stewardship Dinner held in the governor’s honor, commemorating his second year in office. Ekeng Inyang explained that Governor Otu’s priority is not to initiate projects for the sake of glamour, but to deliver practical results. To this end, the governor has refurbished over 40 projects, with more than half of these being inherited from previous administrations.
The state, which was in a dilapidated condition when Governor Otu took office, has undergone significant transformation over the past two years. One notable achievement is the strengthening of security through the establishment of Operation Okwok, a community-based initiative that has restored trust and calm to the streets. This innovative approach has not only improved safety but also fostered a sense of community engagement and participation.
Governor Otu’s commitment to completing existing projects has yielded tangible results, with many previously abandoned or uncompleted initiatives now nearing completion. This focus on substance over spectacle has earned him praise from his aides, who highlight the governor’s dedication to effective governance and his willingness to take a different approach to addressing the state’s challenges.
As Governor Otu continues to prioritize the completion of critical projects, his administration’s emphasis on community-based initiatives, such as Operation Okwok, is likely to have a lasting impact on the state. By choosing to focus on delivering practical results rather than pursuing grandiose projects, Governor Otu is setting a new standard for governance in Cross River State, one that prioritizes the needs of the community above all else.
