Follow Us on Google
From Kenneth Udeh, Lagos
It was an evening of elegance and Cross River solidarity in Lagos as former federal lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Ochiglegor Idagbo, hosted a high-profile reception dinner in honour of Governor Bassey Edet Otu following his recognition as Governor of the Year by The Sun Publishing Limited.
The award, conferred on Saturday, January 31, by the publishers of Daily Sun, Saturday Sun, Sunday Sun and Sporting Sun, formed part of the organisation’s long-standing tradition of celebrating “Uncommon Achievers” – individuals and institutions whose leadership, innovation and commitment to national development stand out across Nigeria’s corporate, political and economic landscape.
For over 23 years, The Sun Awards have remained a platform for spotlighting excellence, accountability, professionalism and value-driven leadership that inspires emerging leaders and strengthens institutions across the country.
In celebration of the honour, Idagbo who represented Bekwarra/Obudu/Obanliku Federal Constituency in the 9th House of Representatives and served as Chairman, House Committee on Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring hosted dignitaries, political figures, and well-wishers at the Red Restaurant, Eko Hotels, Lagos.
The well-attended reception drew prominent personalities from Cross River State and beyond, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for Governor Otu’s leadership and the pride his recognition has brought to the state.
Goodwill messages, music and warm interactions characterised the evening as guests congratulated the Governor and expressed confidence in his continued service to the people.
In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Ochiglegor Idagbo said: “This award is not just a personal honour to Governor Bassey Edet Otu, but a proud moment for Cross River State and its people. His vision, calm leadership and commitment to transforming our state have not gone unnoticed.
“Today, we celebrate a leader whose achievements have brought pride, hope and renewed confidence to Cross River. We are here to say we see the work, we appreciate it, and we stand firmly in support of his mission to reposition our state for greater progress.”
Other News
The reception also provided an opportunity for close interaction with the governor, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to Idagbo and the guests for the honour and encouragement.
Governor Otu noted that the award would further strengthen his commitment to service.
“I want to thank The Sun Publishing Ltd for this recognition, from the deepest part of my heart. I have watched closely the past years of this award, and I see that the majority have contributed. This is truly an all-for-better service, and I know that it is going to make almost all the awardees even more committed to what they are doing and Nigeria is going to be greater for it. The Sun is very important to me and I dedicate this award to the people of Cross Rivers and I promise to keep doing my best. I appreciate you all,” he said.
At the awards ceremony, Founder of The Sun Publishing Limited and former Abia State Governor, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, emphasized the apolitical nature of the media organisation as the foundation of its credibility and longevity.
“The Sun is not partisan; it is apolitical. From inception, I told them The Sun is a public trust. It is not owned by me. It is owned by the Nigerian people,” Kalu stated.
Managing Director of The Sun, Mr Onuoha Ukeh, charged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the awardees described as “Uncommon Achievers” who have defied limitations to create impact through resilience and vision.
Chairman/Publisher, Neya Kalu, described the awards as “light in uncertain moments,” urging Nigerians to remain united in the collective pursuit of national progress despite prevailing challenges.
The Lagos reception dinner hosted by Idagbo was therefore not merely a celebration, but a symbolic gathering of pride, unity and recognition of purposeful leadership.
The evening stood as a fitting tribute to Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s performance in office and a reaffirmation of Cross River’s belief in his stewardship.
