The Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Pastor Ekpenyong Ene Cobham, has highlighted the achievements of the state government under Governor Bassey Edet Otu, saying deliberate reforms and investments are positioning Cross River for sustainable economic growth.
Cobham stated this in his welcome remarks during the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
He said Nigeria’s independence, attained 66 years ago, was founded on the hopes and aspirations of the country’s nationalist leaders, who believed in the potential of the nation despite the challenges confronting them at the time.
According to him, successive generations have a responsibility to preserve that vision and contribute to building a stronger Nigeria, while sustaining faith in the Renewed Hope agenda of the Federal Government.
The commissioner said Cross River had witnessed what he described as significant reengineering, synchronisation and restoration efforts under the People First administration of Governor Otu.
He noted that the state government’s efforts to reduce its domestic debt profile had strengthened confidence among local and foreign investors, describing the development as an indication of the administration’s commitment to creating a dependable investment environment.
Cobham also highlighted developments in the agricultural sector, saying farmers and riverine communities had received support to expand production and improve their livelihoods.
He said tractors had been provided to agricultural cooperatives, while boats were supplied to fishing communities to enhance their economic activities.
According to him, the distribution of coffee seedlings and the promotion of cowpea cultivation were part of efforts to establish a sustainable agricultural economy capable of positioning Cross River competitively among Nigeria’s subnational economies.
The commissioner further disclosed that Cross Riverians were currently undergoing training in China as part of efforts to develop expertise in electric vehicle technology and urban mobility, adding that plans were underway to extend similar training opportunities to more residents.
He also drew attention to the state government’s efforts to restore production from its oil wells, describing the development as an important step towards asserting Cross River’s status as a littoral state and strengthening its position in the oil producing sector.
Cobham said the administration had recorded progress within three years across critical sectors, including transportation, security, healthcare, education and the digital economy.
He congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima on the occasion of the nation’s Independence anniversary, while commending Governor Otu and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, for what he described as their efforts towards repositioning Cross River.
The commissioner urged Cross Riverians to remain committed to the development of the state and the country, stressing that the sacrifices, hard work and contributions of citizens would ultimately yield positive results.
Quoting Galatians 6:7, Cobham said, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
He urged citizens to use the Independence celebration as an opportunity to renew their belief in Nigeria and strengthen their commitment to the development, protection and prosperity of Cross River State.
Cobham called for unity, hope and collective responsibility as Nigerians work towards building a better future for generations yet unborn.
He concluded by wishing Cross River State and Nigeria continued progress and prosperity as the country marked 66 years of nationhood.
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