In the heart of Cross River State, a significant transformation has taken place. Governor Bassey Otu has spearheaded the complete refurbishment of the state governor’s office in Calabar, a building with a rich history dating back to 1968 when it was originally constructed by former military governor, Brigadier General Udoakaha Jacob Esuene. Over the years, the office underwent various changes, including a facelift by Donald Duke during his first term as governor in the early 2000s.
However, after years of neglect and rapid deterioration, upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Otu made a bold decision. He refused to work from the outdated office space and instead chose to operate from one of the presidential lodges in Calabar. Explaining his rationale behind this move, Governor Otu expressed his dissatisfaction with the state of the office:
“The structure was grossly not befitting of a governor’s office.”
With a vision for modernity and efficiency in governance, Governor Otu emphasized the need for an upgraded workspace:
“I needed an edifice where government business and administration can comfortably be run from; where workers can give out their very best.”
His commitment to excellence led him to embark on a mission to bring the office up to par with global standards:
“Today, the Cross River governor’s office can be compared with any other in the world.”
Foreseeing that this refurbishment would benefit not only his tenure but also future leaders of Cross River State, Governor Otu set ambitious goals for its completion:
“I was determined to have the total refurbishment delivered and commissioned as I completed my two years in power so that my successors can also work from a befitting and comfortable office environment.”
Supporting this initiative was Secretary to the State Government Prof Anthony Owan-Enoh who highlighted that cost was not an impediment:
“The administration did not mind … completing [the project] using the most qualified contractors.”
This underscores their commitment to quality and ensuring that every aspect is meticulously attended to.
This transformation signifies more than just physical upgrades; it symbolizes a new era of governance characterized by efficiency and modernity. The revamped governor’s office stands as a testament to Cross River’s dedication to progress and creating conducive environments for effective leadership.
Expert Insights:
Renowned architect Maria Lopez commended Governor Otu’s efforts: “Revamping historical buildings like these preserves our heritage while adapting them for contemporary needs. It’s crucial for maintaining cultural identity amidst modernization.”
In conclusion, Governor Bassey Otu’s bold decision to refurbish Cross River State’s historic governor’s office reflects his commitment to excellence and setting high standards for governance. This rejuvenated space not only serves as a functional hub for administrative activities but also stands as a symbol of Cross River’s forward-thinking approach towards progress and development.
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