RismadarVoice Reporters
August 15, 2026
A socio-political group, Neighbour2Neighbour 4 Sweet Prince, has commended Cross River State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, for the restoration of the state’s status as an oil-producing state.
The group described the development as a historic milestone with significant economic implications for Cross River and its people.
In a statement signed by its Director-General, Hon. Bobby Effiom Ekpenyong, the group said the development transcended partisan politics and could open a new chapter in the state’s economic history.
“We commend and congratulate Your Excellency and your administration on the historic achievement of restoring Cross River State’s rightful status as an oil-producing state,” the group said.
It described the development as being of “immense economic significance” to the people of the state, commending Otu for pursuing Cross River’s interests despite the complexities surrounding the issue.
According to the group, the governor’s determination demonstrated leadership focused not only on immediate needs but also on securing a more prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.
The group said Otu’s efforts had reaffirmed Cross River’s place in Nigeria’s resource and economic landscape, describing the achievement as evidence of his “tenacity, strategic vision, political sagacity tempered by humility, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of the people.”
It noted that the restoration of the state’s oil-producing status could create opportunities for increased revenue, employment, infrastructure development, investment and sustainable economic growth.
The group described the development as one of the defining milestones of the Otu administration.
It further urged the state government to leverage the opportunity to promote inclusive development, youth empowerment, attract investment, improve infrastructure and create jobs for residents.
“May this landmark accomplishment mark the beginning of an even greater era of economic transformation and prosperity for Cross River State,” the statement said.
The group also said the development represented more than the attainment of an economic status, describing it as the pursuit of a lasting legacy for the state.
“Your Excellency, you have not merely pursued an economic status for Cross River State; you have pursued a legacy,” Ekpenyong said.
He added that the development had given Cross Riverians “renewed confidence, renewed hope and renewed reason to believe in the immense possibilities of their state.”
The group congratulated Governor Otu and expressed optimism that the development would be remembered as a major turning point in the economic history of Cross River State.
