Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, PhD, Cross River State representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, has congratulated the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Bassey Edet Otu, on his recent national recognitions, describing them as a clear affirmation of purposeful leadership and visionary governance.
In a statement released on Saturday night, Rt. Hon. Duke applauded the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humanities on Governor Otu by Modibbo Adama University Yola, Adamawa State. The honour was bestowed during the institution’s 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremony, attended by academics, public office holders and dignitaries from across the country.
According to the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ibrahim Umar, the decision to honour Governor Otu was informed by his leadership philosophy, which he described as people centred, inclusive and anchored on integrity. He noted that the Governor has distinguished himself as a bridge builder whose approach to governance promotes unity, equity and sustainable development.
The academic recognition came alongside another major national milestone as Governor Otu was also named The Sun Newspaper Man of the Year, an award that celebrates public figures whose leadership and impact resonate beyond their immediate constituencies.
Reacting to the dual honours, Rt. Hon. Duke said the recognitions reflect the growing national confidence in Governor Otu’s leadership and the renewed relevance of Cross River State on the national stage.
“These honours are not accidental. They speak to a leadership style that is deliberate, humane and focused on results,” Duke said. “Governor Otu has continued to project Cross River positively, restoring pride and confidence in governance. He is bringing honour back home to the People’s Paradise and showing that leadership driven by integrity and service will always attract recognition.”
The NDDC board member added that the awards also serve as encouragement to leaders at all levels to place the welfare of the people at the centre of governance, noting that Governor Otu’s calm disposition and consultative approach have continued to earn him respect across political, academic and social divides.
Rt. Hon. Duke concluded by wishing the Governor continued wisdom, strength and clarity of purpose as he leads Cross River State toward greater stability, growth and shared prosperity, while expressing confidence that the state will continue to benefit from leadership that commands national respect and credibility.
