Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River state has inaugurated the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council for the 2027 general elections. During the inauguration, Otu emphasized that continuity is crucial to consolidating the foundations laid for sustainable development. He stated that a second term would propel the state from economic recovery to wealth creation and shared prosperity. Otu's administration has focused on debt reduction, asset recovery, infrastructure renewal, and public service reforms as evidence of progress under his People First Agenda.
Reflecting on his assumption of office in May 2023, Governor Otu recalled that the state faced significant challenges, including insecurity, a demoralized public service, and underutilized public assets. He noted that his administration did not promise to achieve all things in one year but instead focused on stopping the bleeding, clearing the ground, recovering losses, and restoring abandonments. Otu described the administration's first phase as one of recovery and restoration, aimed at laying the groundwork for sustainable development.
On fiscal management, Governor Otu disclosed that his government had reduced the inherited domestic debt of over ₦204 billion by over ₦70 billion without taking fresh loans. As of March 2026, the outstanding debt stood at approximately ₦132.3 billion. Additionally, internally generated revenue increased from ₦21.1 billion in 2022 to ₦46.3 billion in 2024. Otu emphasized that every debt retired brings freedom for future generations and creates a cleaner fiscal environment.
The governor highlighted the recovery of strategic public assets as another significant achievement. He cited the reclamation of Tinapa from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and the recovery of nearly ₦1 billion from Etung Cocoa Estates and other public assets. Otu also mentioned ongoing efforts to reclaim the state's oil wells and secure its interests in the Bakassi axis and proposed Deep Seaport.
Governor Otu charged party loyalists, appointees, and government officials to take his administration's achievements to the electorate. He emphasized the importance of communicating the progress made under his People First Agenda, which focuses on debt reduction, asset recovery, infrastructure renewal, and public service reforms. By highlighting these achievements, the governor aims to demonstrate the administration's commitment to sustainable development.
The inauguration of the APC campaign council marks a significant step in the party's preparations for the 2027 general elections. Governor Otu's address emphasized the importance of continuity and building on the foundations laid during his first term. By focusing on the achievements of his administration, the governor aims to demonstrate his capacity to drive sustainable development and create wealth and prosperity for the people of Cross River state.
As the 2027 general elections approach, Governor Otu's administration is focused on consolidating its achievements and pushing forward with its agenda for sustainable development. The governor's emphasis on continuity and building on past achievements suggests that his administration is committed to long-term progress and growth in Cross River state.
Key points
- Governor Otu's administration has reduced the inherited domestic debt by over ₦70 billion.
- The governor has highlighted the recovery of strategic public assets, including Tinapa and Etung Cocoa Estates.
- Otu aims to propel the state from economic recovery to wealth creation and shared prosperity with a second term.
