The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, has congratulated the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on his conferment with an Honorary Doctorate Degree, Honoris Causa, in Humanities by Modibbo Adama University, Yola, at a formal investiture on the 31st of January, 2026.
Akposi described the honour as a fitting tribute to a leader whose service has consistently spoken louder than words. According to him, the ceremony presents an opportunity not only to celebrate the award itself but to reflect on the enduring tradition and values that underpin the conferment of honorary degrees.
In his congratulatory message, the Akamkpa Council Chairman noted that honorary degrees, styled honoris causa meaning “for the sake of honour,” is to recognised individuals of exceptional distinction whose lives exemplified service, leadership, and societal impact beyond academic scholarship.
“An honorary doctorate is not earned through classroom hours or thesis writing,” Akposi stated. “It is earned through a lifetime of service, character, sacrifice, and visible impact on humanity. Governor Otu fits squarely into this noble tradition.”
Hon. Akposi explained that such honours are reserved for individuals who inspire trust, command empathy, and mobilise support through visionary, authentic, and empowering leadership traits, qualities he said Governor Otu has consistently demonstrated in public life.
The Chairman referenced the justification provided by the Vice-Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University, Professor Ibrahim Umar, of Governor Otu’s selection based on his exceptional leadership record and humanitarian contributions, both within and beyond Cross River State.
“This recognition aligns perfectly with Governor Otu’s long-held belief that politics is a platform for service to humanity,” Akposi noted. “It is a philosophy he has not merely preached but proven, through actions that continue to attract accolades and respect across the nation and beyond.”
He observed that Governor Otu’s leadership mantra, anchored on the People First mandate and the Season of Sweetness doctrine, has translated into tangible dividends of democracy for the people of Cross River State. These, he said, cut across critical sectors including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, tourism revitalisation, food security, economic transformation, and social welfare.
“From rural communities to urban centres, the impact of this administration is visible and felt,” Akposi said. “This honorary doctorate affirms that good governance, when pursued with sincerity and purpose, will always receive validation.”
The Akamkpa Chairman further highlighted that the MAU honour adds to a growing list of national recognitions earned by Governor Otu, including his recent emergence as The Sun Man of the Year 2025, a prestigious national award that celebrates leadership excellence, influence, and outstanding contribution to national development.
“Being named The Sun Man of the Year is no small feat,” Akposi added. “It places Governor Otu firmly on the national leadership map and confirms that his governance model resonates beyond Cross River State.”
He added that the Governor’s collective honours underscore a consistent pattern of performance rather than isolated achievements.
In a secondary reflection, the Council Chairman remarked that Governor Otu’s rise to national prominence is anchored on selfless service, unwavering commitment to vision and purpose, and a deeply rooted people-centric approach to governance.
“Above all,” Akposi said, “his leadership is guided by the fear of God, which grants wisdom beyond human calculation. That moral compass has been evident in his decisions, priorities, and the inclusive tone of his administration.”
Hon. Akposi concluded by congratulating Governor Otu on behalf of the government and people of Akamkpa Local Government Area, praying for continued wisdom, strength, and divine guidance as he sustains the momentum of development and service.
“These honours are well deserved,” he said. “They affirm that Governor Otu has ascended a high pedestal of national leadership recognition, earned through integrity, compassion, and an unrelenting commitment to the welfare of the people.”
