Otu’s vision for Cross River and Okpara model

By Linus Obogo

In a fractured, fragmented and ruptured polity such as ours, where echoes of visionary leadership are a rarity, that of the late Premier of Nigeria’s defunct Eastern Region, Dr. Michael I. Okpara not only resonated penultimate week, but the embers of his legacy glowed and illuminated the entire hall of Shehu Yar’dua Centre in Abuja.

At the Annual Lecture and Award ceremony, speakers after speakers, including Governor Bassey Otu took turns to eulogise the late Premier for his many enduring economic transformations. 

On the occasion, Otu was honoured with the distinguished 2024 Michael Okpara Premier Leadership Prize. 

The gathering was not merely to shower encomiums; it was a profusion of tributes to a legacy that shaped the economic and governance landscape of the Eastern Region during the tumultuous years following independence. In glowing testaments, many testified to Okpara’s innovative approaches to leadership and governance which continue to inspire contemporary leaders like Otu.

The import of the event, as I mentioned earlier, transcendent ceremonial applause—it was a clarion call for a rebirth in governance and economic development, rooted in the foundational principles that the late Okpara espoused. 

Indeed, Governor Otu’s speech was steeped in admiration for Okpara’s exceptional leadership, which he characterized as visionary and pragmatic. He acknowledged that Okpara was instrumental in establishing one of the fastest-growing regional economies in the world, setting a benchmark for excellence in leadership and public service. 

Governor Otu’s recognition came at a pivotal time for Cross River State, which stands at the crossroads of opportunity and challenge. Otu articulated a bold vision for the state, emphasizing an economic blueprint inspired by Okpara’s legacy. His administration aims to catalyze growth across key sectors, including agro-industrialization, infrastructure development, education, and health. By prioritizing these sectors, Otu seeks not only to honour Okpara’s contributions but to create a sustainable pathway for prosperity that resonates with the needs of modern-day Cross Riverians.

At the core of Governor Otu’s agenda is a series of robust agricultural initiatives. So far, he has announced several strategic programs designed to enhance productivity, create jobs, and ensure food security. Initiatives such as soil fertility surveys and oil palm seedling distributions are set to empower farmers and transform the agricultural landscape of Cross River State. The governor’s commitment to commercial agricultural funding schemes signals a proactive approach to attract investment and stimulate economic activity.

Otu’s vision is not limited to agriculture; it encompasses an extensive infrastructure development agenda aimed at rejuvenating the state’s physical and economic landscape. By addressing inherited infrastructural decay, his administration plans to lay the groundwork for sustainable growth that benefits all citizens. 

Furthermore, Otu’s emphasis on education as a pillar of development reflects a deep understanding of its role in fostering human capital and driving economic progress.

As part of ensuring Integrity in governance, Governor Otu, in tandem with economic revitalization, is keenly aware that good governance is the bedrock of sustainable development. 

In his spell-binding keynote address on the occasion, the governor stressed the importance of transparency, participation, accountability, and efficiency in public affairs. By fostering a responsive and inclusive government, Otu envisions a collaborative partnership with the people to drive positive change.

This commitment to governance was echoed by Chief Uzodinma Okpara, Chairman of the Michael Okpara Foundation, who lauded Otu’s endeavors in driving a robust economic revolution. The foundation’s emphasis on establishing farm settlements highlights the urgent need for systemic solutions to food security and agricultural development challenges faced by Nigeria today. 

As the event unfolded at the Yar’dua Centre, it was evident that the recognition of Governor Otu was not merely an individual accolade but a collective aspiration for a brighter future for Cross River State. The presence of high-profile dignitaries, including state governors, senators, and industrialists, underscored the significance of this moment. It served as a reminder that collective action and collaboration among leaders are essential for addressing the myriad challenges facing Nigeria.

Additionally, the recognition of the Women in Agriculture Empowerment Programme of Otu’s administration as a strategic partnership illustrates the importance of inclusive growth. Empowering women farmers is not only a moral imperative but also a pragmatic approach to enhancing agricultural productivity and economic resilience. By engaging women in the agricultural sector, Otu’s administration is laying the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous future.

As Governor Otu navigates the complexities of governance, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to uphold the values exemplified by Dr. Michael Okpara. The late Premier’s legacy serves as a beacon, reminding current leaders of the importance of integrity, visionary leadership, and dedication to public service. Otu’s administration aims to emulate these principles, ensuring that the ideals of good governance are not merely aspirational but actively pursued and implemented.

In a country grappling with various socio-economic challenges, the vision articulated by Governor Otu offers a glimmer of hope. His strategic focus on agriculture, infrastructure, and education, coupled with a commitment to good governance, paves the way for a transformative era in Cross River State. 

Undoubtedly, the journey ahead is fraught with challenges, but with a clear vision and a commitment to collaborative governance, Otu is poised to steer Cross River towards a future characterized by sustainable growth and prosperity.

As the echoes of Dr. Michael Okpara’s leadership continue to inspire, Governor Otu can only be challenged to translate this legacy into tangible progress for the people of Cross River State. The 2024 Michael Okpara Premier Leadership Prize serves as both an honor and a challenge—a call to action for a new generation of leaders to rise to the occasion and champion the values that will secure a brighter future for all. 

Governor Otu who promised to uphold the late Premier’s outstanding leadership values, intoned: “By upholding the values of good leadership, governance, and community engagement, the state aims to create a conducive environment for growth, development, and sustainable progress. And as we look to the future, may this commitment resonate widely, inspiring a new wave of transformative leadership across Nigeria.”

• Obogo is Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State