Former Senate Leader: Nigeria’s 65 Years Have Been a Cocktail of Struggles and Progress

Ukorebi Esien | October 5, 2025

CALABAR -The former Leader of the 7th Senate of Nigeria, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has described Nigeria's 65-year journey as a "cocktail of struggles and progress," saying it is a miracle that the country has remained united despite decades of political upheavals, coups, and economic turbulence.

Senator Ndoma-Egba stated this at the weekend when the executives of the Cross River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by its Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Calabar. The high point of the visit was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Ndoma-Egba, who has been the longest-serving patron of the NUJ in the state, spanning over 40 years.

Expressing appreciation for the honour, the former Senate Leader commended the NUJ for its vibrancy and resilience over the years, saying his relationship with the union has been "a long and exciting journey."

"You might think that after 40 years, one should be bored, but with NUJ, you can't be bored because either there is a new idea or a new crisis. There is always something to keep you there," he said, thanking the journalists for their consistency and professionalism.

Turning his attention to Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary, Senator Ndoma-Egba reflected deeply on the nation's political history, likening the journey to a mix of trials, transitions, and triumphs.

"At 65, Nigeria has had a heavily packed experience a cocktail of events. I have seen colonial rule, the struggle for independence, the civil war, and several coups. We've gone from three regions to 36 states. It has been a lifetime of intense experiences that could cause mental stress for a person, yet we remain one people," he noted.

 

Describing the country's continued unity as a "major achievement," he emphasised that no serious-minded Nigerian is calling for the breakup of the country, despite its challenges.

"It's a miracle that we are still seen as a nation. In spite of our contradictions, we are still one. Forget the few miscreants who don't know what they are saying, there is no sane Nigerian today who truly wants the country to break up," he asserted.

The legal luminary and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, further compared Nigeria's endurance to that of a marriage, saying that what keeps a union or a nation together is commitment, not convenience.

"In every marriage, there are romantic, realistic, and bitter phases. But the marriage lasts because there's commitment. That is what is keeping Nigeria together, our collective commitment to remain one," he added.

Senator Ndoma-Egba urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and keep faith in the country's potential, stressing that nation-building is an endless journey, not a destination.

"Yes, we would have wished to be miles ahead of where we are, but so have all other countries. Nation-building is not an overnight affair. We just have to keep moving forward, in spite of ourselves," he advised.

Comrade Archibong Bassey, who led the NUJ delegation, praised Ndoma-Egba for his steadfast support for the journalism profession and his long-standing role as a mentor and patron, describing him as "a statesman whose contributions to governance and media development remain invaluable to Cross River State and Nigeria at large."

Celebrating Patriots in Their Lifetime Will Build a Greater Cross River – Otu

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State 

CALABAR — Governor Bassey Edet Otu has stressed the importance of honouring distinguished Cross Riverians while they are still alive, describing it as a cultural shift that will inspire greater patriotism and sacrifice for the state's progress.

The Governor gave the charge on Thursday, October 2, at the Destiny Cross River Awards 2025, where he was decorated with the Destiny Grand Commander Award, the highest honour of the evening, for what organisers described as his "uncommon leadership in rebuilding Cross River and restoring hope for a new generation."

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, Governor Otu said recognising eminent sons and daughters of the state during their lifetime would encourage others to give more of themselves in service to humanity and society.

"Too often, we wait until our heroes are gone before acknowledging their immense contributions. What you have done today is worthy of emulation because celebrating living patriots strengthens the culture of sacrifice and inspires many more to follow their example," he stated.

The Governor further urged Cross Riverians to embrace a culture of patriotism, sacrifice, and service, noting that the future of the state lies not in the politics of division but in a renewed covenant of collective responsibility. He commended the inclusivity of the awards, which reflected all three senatorial districts of the state and included gender sensitivity, describing it as "a true symbol of unity."

Otu also highlighted his administration's deliberate efforts to strengthen ties with security agencies, the judiciary, and paramilitary institutions as part of measures to restore public confidence and attract investments into the state. He pledged his continued commitment to rebuilding institutions, deepening governance, and empowering the people, adding that the award would spur him to do even more.

The Governor further assured of government's support for future editions of the Destiny Awards, describing the maiden edition as "historic, prophetic, and unifying."

Presenting the award, Archbishop Josef Bassey, Convener of the Destiny Cross River Awards, praised Otu's quiet but determined leadership, contrasting it with leaders who seek personal glory.

"Where others saw ruins, he saw opportunity. Where others sought monuments to themselves, he chose renewal for the state. He has quietly gone about repairing the broken walls, refusing to expose the mess of the past but instead courageously rebuilding for the future. That is why tonight, we bestow on him this award as an eternal witness to his legendary patriotism and prophetic submission of Cross River to God," the cleric declared.

Archbishop Bassey stressed that the Destiny Awards were not just another recognition exercise but a prophetic covenant to immortalise sacrifice and inspire a new culture of nation-building. He likened Otu to a "turnaround manager" who inherited ruins but has begun transforming them into progress.

According to him, the award was also a call to accountability: "When leaders do wrong, we must say so. But when they do right, we must also acknowledge it. This award is given because you are doing well, and we will continue to encourage you as long as you stay true to the path of renewal."

Other eminent Cross Riverians honoured at the event included Chief Anthony Ani (CON), former Minister of Finance; Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN, CON), former Attorney-General of the Federation; Prof. Kelvin Etta, renowned scholar and administrator; and Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, who made history as the first female recipient of the Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award.

Why Governor Otu called for an Emergency Exco Meeting

Emergency Exco: Governor Otu Approves N2.1bn for Education, Road Works at Bakassi Deep Seaport

Calabar, Nigeria – Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, presided over an emergency session of the State Executive Council (Exco) where far-reaching decisions on infrastructure and education were approved.

The 10th Exco meeting for the year, held at the Governor's Office Complex in Calabar, focused on urgent interventions, particularly the commencement of works at the Bakassi Deep Seaport site and the strengthening of the state's basic education system.

Top among the approvals was the emergency construction of a 1.7-kilometre access road and a one-hectare helipad at the Bakassi Deep Seaport location. The projects are expected to pave the way for the groundbreaking ceremony of the much-anticipated seaport, which Governor Otu has described as a "game changer" for Cross River's economy.

On education, the council approved the release of N2.1 billion for the printing of Training and Learning Materials (TLMs) under the Hope Programme, a World Bank-assisted initiative aimed at improving foundational literacy and numeracy for primary school pupils. The programme also includes the provision of teachers' guides and training for over 11,700 teachers across the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, explained that the intervention will not only strengthen learning outcomes in primary schools but also guarantee a reimbursement of more than N17.7 billion from the World Bank.

Earlier, Governor Otu welcomed the new Head of Service, Barr. Orok Okon, to his first Exco meeting in his new role, praising his experience and charging him to bring added value to the state's civil service.

The Governor, in his remarks, reiterated his administration's People First agenda, urging commissioners to remain closer to the grassroots so that citizens can fully understand and benefit from government policies and programmes.

Abi Council Chairman Hailed for Inspiring Youth-Centered Leadership

ITIGIDI, – The 65th Independence Day celebration in Abi Local Government Area turned into a platform for recognition of visionary leadership, as the Council Chairman, Obol Hon. Egbala Bassey, was celebrated for his commitment to empowering the younger generation.

Speaking during the celebration, the Special Assistant on Inter-Governmental Affairs, Amb. Samuel Ben, described Obol Bassey as a leader who has consistently aligned governance with the aspirations of youths in the area.

According to Amb. Ben, the council boss's policies and initiatives have created avenues for skills development, mentorship, and opportunities that raise the confidence of young people in their own future. "Independence is about freedom and self-reliance, and the chairman has translated this into action by raising independent stars among our youths," he said.

He further stressed that beyond youth development, the chairman has also strengthened ties with sister government agencies, ensuring the LGA benefits from intergovernmental collaborations.

The Independence Day celebration was marked by unity, patriotism, and a renewed sense of hope, with stakeholders and residents commending the council's effort in giving the day a meaningful touch.

Amb. Ben concluded that Obol Bassey's leadership represents the true essence of independence, hope, opportunity, and self-determination for all, especially the youth.

“You are a Turn-around Manager” — C’River Cleric Applauds Otu’s Intentional Developmental Strides

Ukorebi Esien | October 3, 2025 

CALABAR —  A foremost Cleric and father of faith in Cross River State, the Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God's Heritage Global Mission, His Eminence Archbishop Josef Bassey has  described Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State as a Turn-around Manger whose quiet but intentional leadership has repositioned the state from ruins into a path of renewal.

Speaking at the Destiny Cross River Awards 2025, held on yesterday, Thursday, October 2, at the Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar. Archbishop Josef Bassey commended the governor's quiet, diligent leadership in rebuilding Cross River State without resorting to public blame of the past administration

The convener of the awards, Archbishop Josef Bassey, described Governor Bassey Edet Otu as a "turn-around manager" whose quiet but intentional leadership has repositioned the state from ruins into a path of renewal. While presenting the Destiny Grand Commander Award to the Governor (represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar), Archbishop Bassey said:

"When Cross River State was in ruins, we stood up and said the state was in ruins. We declared that nothing meaningful was happening here. They fought us, but we insisted: you cannot wreck this state, not while some of us are alive. We did the best we could.

Now, under your watch, we see the state being rebuilt. It is only right and proper that when people do wrong, we say, 'You are doing wrong.' And when people do well, we must also say, 'You are doing well.' If tomorrow you no longer do well, we will say, 'Sir, you were doing well, but we don't know what you are doing now.' The truth must be told at all times.

And so today we say, you are doing well. You have done well so far. You have refused to talk, but we have the facts, the data, the letters, all manner of documents about what happened in the previous administration. We also know the comprehensive report that was delivered at the end of the day. We saw the mess. Yet you have not said one word.

You have not presented the matter to the public, but you have quietly gone about changing things. The work you have done is what, in business parlance, is called the work of a turnaround manager. When a business has collapsed, what it needs is a special kind of skill. That is what you have demonstrated. That is what you are doing.

How you are doing it, we may not fully know, but we know we are praying for you. And you can count on the goodwill of every true friend, every true investor in Cross River State, because we want our state to succeed, and we will continue to support you as long as you continue on this path.

Therefore, it is our honor and privilege to present to you today the Destiny Cross River Grand Commander Award, bestowed upon Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu as an eternal witness to the historic demonstration of legendary patriotism in leadership and governance, redeeming our state from the ruins of the dark years and repositioning her on the path of greater glory."

Governor Otu, in his response delivered by Ironbar, emphasized the need to celebrate patriots while they are alive, stressing that recognition should not wait until heroes have passed away.

"Too often, we wait until our heroes are gone before acknowledging their immense contributions. What you have done today is worthy of emulation because celebrating living patriots strengthens the culture of sacrifice and inspires many more to follow their example," Otu said.

He assured Cross Riverians of his administration's commitment to rebuilding institutions, strengthening security, partnering with the judiciary and paramilitary agencies, and creating an environment attractive to investors. He also pledged government support for future editions of the Destiny Awards, calling the maiden event "historic, prophetic, and unifying."

One of the most emotional moments of the night came from Prof. Kelvin Etta, former Vice Chancellor of UNICAL and CRUTECH, who received the Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus Award. He used his acceptance speech to plead for forgiveness from Cross Riverians:

"If there's anyone I must have hurt or offended in the course of my public service and in my determination to leave behind beautiful footprints in the sands of time, please forgive me. It was never intentional but born out of passion to serve and succeed," he said, drawing a long applause from the audience.

Another honouree, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN, CON),  described the recognition as "a tonic that will spur Chief Agabi to continue doing more for Cross River and Nigeria."

The event also made history as Senator Florence Ita-Giwa became the first female recipient of the awards, bagging the Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award for her decades of outstanding political leadership and community service.

Former Finance Minister, Etubom Anthony Ani (CON), was equally honoured for his legendary contributions to governance and economic reforms, with Archbishop Bassey describing him as "one of the pillars upon which Cross River's destiny rests."

In his keynote, Archbishop Bassey reminded the gathering that the awards were not just about recognition but a covenant to immortalise sacrifice and inspire future generations:

"Destiny is not fulfilled by chance; it is secured by sacrifice. Titles will fade, wealth will perish, but those who lay down their lives for their people will be remembered forever. Cross River is not just a state; it is a covenant project, destined to bless the nations."

The Destiny Cross River Awards 2025 thus brought together leaders across government, business, academia, civil society, and the church in what many described as "a prophetic roll call of destiny-shapers."

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

Otu, Agabi, Others Celebrated at Destiny Cross River Awards

Ukorebi Esien | October 3, 2025

CALABAR — It was a night of glamour, reflection, and honour on Thursday, October 2, as eminent sons and daughters of Cross River State were celebrated at the maiden Destiny Cross River Awards 2025. The event, convened by Archbishop Josef Bassey, held at Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar, and drew together leaders from government, business, the church, and the diplomatic community.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu, who was decorated with the Destiny Grand Commander Award, the highest honour of the evening, described the celebration of patriots during their lifetime as a cultural shift that would inspire future generations. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, Otu said:

"Too often, we wait until our heroes are gone before acknowledging their immense contributions. What you have done today is worthy of emulation, because celebrating living patriots strengthens the culture of sacrifice and inspires many more to follow their example."

The Governor noted that the inclusivity of the awards, which honoured recipients from all three senatorial districts of the state and also recognised women, was proof of unity. "The future of Cross River does not lie in politics of division but in a renewed covenant of collective responsibility," he added.

On governance, Otu assured of his administration's resolve to rebuild broken institutions and restore public trust. "We have deliberately strengthened our ties with security agencies, the judiciary, and paramilitary institutions to restore confidence and attract investments into our state. This award will spur us to do more," he pledged.

Presenting the award to the Governor, Archbishop Josef Bassey, Convener of the Destiny Cross River Awards, hailed Otu as a rare kind of leader who had quietly taken on the burdens of the state.

"Where others saw ruins, he saw opportunity. Where others sought monuments to themselves, he chose renewal for the state. He has quietly gone about repairing the broken walls, refusing to expose the mess of the past but instead courageously rebuilding for the future. That is why tonight, we bestow on him this award as an eternal witness to his legendary patriotism and prophetic submission of Cross River to God."

The Archbishop likened the Governor's style to that of a "turnaround manager", saying: "You inherited ruins, but you are transforming them into progress. That is the noblest form of leadership."

He also stressed that the awards were more than mere recognition. "The Destiny Awards are not just another ceremony; they are a prophetic covenant to immortalise sacrifice and inspire a new generation of nation-builders. When leaders do wrong, we must say so. But when they do right, we must also acknowledge it," Bassey declared.

One of the most emotional moments of the night came from Prof. Kelvin Etta, former Vice Chancellor of UNICAL and CRUTECH, who received the Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus Award. He used his acceptance speech to plead for forgiveness from Cross Riverians:

"If there's anyone I must have hurt or offended in the course of my public service and in my determination to leave behind beautiful footprints in the sands of time, please forgive me. It was never intentional but born out of passion to serve and succeed," he said, drawing a long applause from the audience.

Another honouree, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN, CON), described the recognition as "a tonic that will spur Chief Agabi to continue doing more for Cross River and Nigeria."

The event also made history as Senator Florence Ita-Giwa became the first female recipient of the awards, bagging the Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award for her decades of outstanding political leadership and community service.

Former Finance Minister, Etubom Anthony Ani (CON), was equally honoured for his legendary contributions to governance and economic reforms, with Archbishop Bassey describing him as "one of the pillars upon which Cross River's destiny rests."

In his keynote, Archbishop Bassey reminded the gathering that the awards were not just about recognition but a covenant to immortalise sacrifice and inspire future generations:

"Destiny is not fulfilled by chance; it is secured by sacrifice. Titles will fade, wealth will perish, but those who lay down their lives for their people will be remembered forever. Cross River is not just a state; it is a covenant project, destined to bless the nations."

The Destiny Cross River Awards 2025 thus brought together leaders across government, business, academia, civil society, and the church in what many described as "a prophetic roll call of destiny-shapers."

Destiny Cross River Awards Holds Today in Calabar, Governor Otu to Receive Top Honour

Ukorebi Esien | October 2, 2025

CALABAR – All roads lead to the Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar, today, Thursday, October 2, 2025, as the much-anticipated Destiny Cross River Awards takes centre stage in what organisers describe as a "covenant night where history, prophecy, and destiny converge."

The awards, a project of Destiny Cross River Covenant Council and Josef Bassey Legacy Foundation, was conceived by His Eminence, Archbishop Josef Bassey, The Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God's Heritage Nation  to celebrate men and women whose sacrifices, patriotism, and service have shaped the destiny of Cross River State and positioned it for a greater future.

Topping the list of honourees is Governor Bassey Edet Otu, who will be conferred with the Destiny Grand Commander Award, the highest honour of the evening. Organisers say the recognition comes as a tribute to his uncommon leadership in "rebuilding Cross River from ruins to glory, restoring broken institutions, and rekindling hope for sustainable progress."

Other eminent Cross Riverians set to be celebrated include:

Chief Anthony Ani (CON), former Minister of Finance, to receive the highest award under the Legends Protocol category.

Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN, CON), former Attorney General of the Federation, to be honoured with the Destiny Patriarchal Laureate Award.

Prof. Kelvin Etta, respected educationist, to receive the Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus Award.

Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, iconic politician and humanitarian, who makes history as the first female recipient of the Awards, honoured under a matriarchal category that highlights her decades of political courage and community service.

Speaking ahead of the event, Archbishop Josef Bassey explained that the Awards are not merely recognitions but "a covenant moment to immortalise patriots and inspire a new generation of destiny-builders."

Dignitaries from government, business, academia, the church, and the diplomatic corps are expected at the historic gathering, which promises to be the grandest edition yet.

The Destiny Cross River Awards 2025, beyond the glamour, seeks to stand as a prophetic roll call of destiny-shapers, and a clarion call for Cross Riverians to "rise, build, and bless the nations."

Breaking: Ita-Giwa Emerges First Female Recipient of Destiny C'River Awards

Ukorebi Esien | October 2, 2025

CALABAR – History will be made on Thursday, October 2, 2025, as Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, fondly known as "Mama Bakassi," becomes the first female recipient of the Destiny Cross River Awards. She will be honoured with the " Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award" in the same category as Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, CON, an award reserved for statesmen and women whose patriotism, sacrifice, and uncommon service have shaped the destiny of Cross River State.

The Destiny Cross River Awards, conceived by the Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God's Heritage Global Mission, His Eminence Archbishop Josef Bassey, is designed as a prophetic platform to immortalise true patriots whose lives and legacies have been seeds for the advancement of the state's destiny.

Speaking ahead of the event, Archbishop Bassey explained that the awards are not "just another recognition ceremony," but "a covenant moment to honour those who have laid down their lives, resources, and talents as seeds for the advancement of the state's destiny." He stressed that at a time when selfishness and corruption often eclipse noble sacrifice, the Destiny Awards provide a rallying point for the people of Cross River to rediscover patriotism and service.

Senator Ita-Giwa's recognition reflects her decades-long commitment to justice, human rights, and advocacy, particularly for the people of Bakassi who were displaced following the ceding of the peninsula. Through her political career, legislative interventions, and humanitarian efforts, she has stood out as a voice for the voiceless and a champion of sacrifice, making her a fitting trailblazer as the first woman honoured in this category.

The 2025 edition of the Destiny Awards promises to be the grandest yet, with Governor Bassey Edet Otu billed to receive the Destiny Grand Commander Award, the highest honour of the evening, in recognition of his covenant leadership in rebuilding Cross River. Other honourees include Chief Anthony Ani (CON), Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN, CON), and Prof. Kelvin Etta.

Dignitaries from government, business, academia, the church, and the diplomatic corps are expected at the Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar, for what organisers describe as "a prophetic roll call of destiny-shapers and a clarion call for Cross Riverians everywhere to rise, build, and bless the nations."

With Ita-Giwa's historic recognition, the Destiny Cross River Awards further underscore its mission, to immortalise sacrifice, celebrate patriotism, and inspire a new generation of leaders who see governance and service as a covenant with posterity.

Nigeria @65: Betta Edu Calls for Unity, Shared Responsibility, and Patriotism

ABUJA — As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has urged Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility in building a stronger and more prosperous nation.

In a goodwill message to mark the occasion, Dr. Edu commended the resilience and determination of Nigerians, describing the people as "specially crafted with great determination, an unconquerable spirit, and a limitless possibilities mindset."

She noted that Nigerians have distinguished themselves in various fields across the world, ensuring the country's continued recognition in the League of Nations. According to her, the 65th Independence Anniversary is not just a time for celebration but also for thanksgiving to God and a renewed commitment to the vision of a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.

Dr. Edu also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what she described as bold and decisive steps in repositioning the economy, strengthening social protection for the vulnerable, and entrenching citizen-centered governance. These efforts, she said, are laying the foundation for sustainable growth and national renewal.

"Though challenges persist, the Renewed Hope Agenda provides a clear pathway to stability, reforms, and expanded opportunities for all Nigerians. We are already at the end of the tunnel; all we see now is green ahead," Edu stated.

She further highlighted Nigeria's diversity as its greatest strength and described the nation's population as an unmatched marketplace and fertile ground for investment.

Concluding her remarks, the Minister urged citizens to remain hopeful and united. "Together, we can turn today's sacrifices into tomorrow's prosperity," she said.

Otu’s ‘People First’ Agenda a Blueprint for Nigeria’s Development at 65 – Duke

Ukorebi Esien I October 1, 2025

 

CALABAR  – As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence Anniversary, the Vice Chairman and CEO of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Bong Duke, has said that Governor Bassey Otu's People First agenda represents a model for inclusive growth and national renewal.

In a goodwill message to mark the anniversary, Pastor Duke congratulated Nigerians, especially the people of Cross River State, on the milestone, describing Independence Day as more than a celebration of freedom but also a call to deepen unity, justice, and sustainable development.

He noted that at 65, Nigeria has endured challenges and achieved notable progress, but stressed that the moment calls for sober reflection and a renewed commitment to building a nation where prosperity is shared equitably.

"Here in Cross River State, under the purposeful leadership of His Excellency, Sen. (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, the People First agenda stands as a beacon of renewal and development," he said. "At the State Planning Commission, we remain committed to coordinating and aligning government policies, programmes, and projects with the aspirations of the people, ensuring that our planning today translates into sustainable prosperity for generations to come."

Pastor Duke further called on Nigerians to transform challenges into opportunities by leveraging diversity and natural endowments, urging citizens to remain hopeful and united in pursuit of the Nigeria of their dreams.

He concluded by expressing optimism that the anniversary would rekindle patriotism and collective service to the nation, reaffirming the Commission's resolve to contribute to Nigeria's growth story through strategic planning and citizen-centered development.