By Sylvia Akpan And Favour Adinya
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has urged Nigerians to shift their focus towards the long-term national objectives, rather than being preoccupied with the temporary challenges brought about by the current economic reforms spearheaded by the Bola Tinubu-led administration.
Otu made this call on Tuesday at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar, while commemorating the 64th Independence Day Anniversary in Cross River.
Braving the rain at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, the governor stood at the saluting dais to receive salutes from the police, paramilitary organizations, and participating schools.
Acknowledging the nation’s substantial economic challenges, the governor emphasized that the anticipated benefits of the ongoing reforms far surpass the current difficulties.
According to his Chief Press Secretary, Gill Nsa, Governor Otu emphasized that Nigerians need perseverance, as there is a promising future ahead. He highlighted that the nation has made significant progress and remains a united, sovereign entity.
He said in his leadership in Cross River over the past year, his administration has been proactive in avoiding the blame games of previous administrations. Instead, they have been diligently working to set a new course for the state across all levels of governance.
“I have cultivated the practice of seeking consensus before making critical governmental decisions to position the state for political unity and economic prosperity.
“While politics often involves narrow-minded views, ethnic prejudices, and religious biases used by some politicians to secure electoral victories, once a government is established, these divisive elements should have no place in governance.
“Rather, we must embrace the principles of statecraft by harnessing the inner drive to serve the people. We must cultivate a generation of selfless politicians for the enduring prosperity of a distinguished Cross River,” he stated.
He stressed that the expectations of the governed are substantial and sincere, underscoring the importance of collective efforts to meet the expectations.
Otu called on all political stakeholders in the state to merge their interests into a cohesive entity, to establish a well-defined development agenda for Cross River to effectively compete among other sub-national entities.
Operating under the ‘People First’ mantra, he expressed readiness to implement any measures aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by his constituents.
The Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has felicitated with Cross Riverians and Nigerians on the 64th Independence Anniversary.
He charged Citizens to reflect on their journey as a nation, reminding them to acknowledge the sacrifices of their forefathers who fought for the freedom that has added to the growth of Nigeria.
He acknowledges the sacrifices of Nigeria’s forefathers who fought for the country’s freedom and the efforts of all who have contributed to Nigeria’s growth and development, noting that the anniversary is a reminder of Nigerians’ collective strength and potential as a people.
The Speaker said the Nation not only celebrates just the birth of Nigeria, but the enduring spirit of resilience, hope, and unity that has carried the citizen through decades of challenges and triumphs.
He called on Cross Riverians to continue playing their part in the development of the state and nation. ”Let us uphold the values of peace, unity, and hard work as we contribute to the progress of our dear country.”
“As we raise our flags high in celebration of our independence, may we also raise our hopes and aspirations for a prosperous, peaceful, and united Nigeria, God bless Cross River State. God bless Nigeria,” he added.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, emphasized that the 64th Independence Day celebration is an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the journey thus far.
Ekpang noted that it is also a time to commemorate the sacrifices made by the nation’s past heroes to ensure national unity and cohesion, highlighting that together, Nigerians can overcome the current economic challenges being felt nationwide.
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