Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has pledged that his administration will leave legacy of a united and prosperous Cross River that will be the envy of the nation.
Otu who made the pledge when he hosted newly elevated public servants of the state extraction at the federal level, however, said the idea of a greater Cross River was a challenge and endeavour that must be supported.
The governor, who noted that he remained focused in spite of the seeming challenges, said that everything worthwhile was usually an uphill task that required the determination, endurance and focus to achieve.
“The crucible of leading a state is overwhelmingly daunting but with the force of our collective resolve, we shall arrive at the desired destination.
“We shall therefore not relent in presenting to the citizenry our laudable ideas for every one to ask questions that will stimulate more victory and participate in the implementation of the ideas and take part in the glory of the accompanying successes,” he stressed.
The governor, who also bestowed awards on the elevated public servants including ministers, army, Police and the judiciary, said that their elevation was due to years of hard work and dedication to nation building.
He urged them to replicate the same zeal in governance and patriotism in the service of the state.
According to him, “I am privileged, humbled and highly elated to be at the helm of affairs in the state when these our illustrious sons were elevated and chosen in their different fields of endeavour.
“They have impacted the states development agenda, therefore, no responsible government will downplay the importance of this distinguished human capital.
“The social responsibility each of you owe the state is to serve as role models in terms of mentorship and provision of transformational leadership.”
Otu said it was only in the atmosphere of unity that the desired development could be achieved and called on everyone to be responsible for promoting unity among the people.
“Fellow compatriots, permit me to use this forum to reiterate the essence of unity among our diverse ethnic groupings and party lines in the state.
“The unity of Cross River State is sacrosant and therefore takes precedence over and above other considerations and nation building.
The challenge of building a peaceful and harmonious and prosperous state rests squarely on everyone’s shoulders, irrespective of tribal, and political in inclinations,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the honoured public servants, Justice Jane Inyang of Court of Appeal, pledged that in their respective capacity, they would lift the banner of Cross River high.
Other public servants honoured are Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Staff Intelligence; Sen. John Owan-Enoh, Minister of Sports and Dr Betta Edu, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Others are Patrick Edung, AIG Zone II command, Osobo; Echeng Eworo Echeng, AIG zone 9, headquarters Umuahia amongst others.