By joshua 
Otu’s vision for progress: Cally Air fleet expansion and Cross River library remodelling
By Michael Jegede
Under the dynamic, pragmatic, and purposeful leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Cross River State seems to be experiencing a transformative era of growth and development, driven by strategic projects that prioritize infrastructure development, education and investment promotion.
Two noteworthy projects among many others that exemplify Otu’s vision for growth are the acquisition of two additional aircraft for the expansion of Cally Air fleet and the remodelled state library which were commissioned on Tuesday by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT). These endeavours, in the views of observers, not only highlight the governor’s commitment to progress, but likewise underscore the state’s potential for growth and development.
The expansion of Cally Air is expected to propel the state’s aviation sector forward, thereby enhancing connectivity and driving economic growth. While the remodelled and digitalized state library will provide an ideal learning atmosphere, serve as a hub for innovation, creativity, and progress, empowering Cross River residents with access to knowledge and information.
These projects demonstrate the governor’s desire to create opportunities for Cross Riverians and lead the state towards a brighter future. The impact of these initiatives, believed to be profound and far-reaching, extends beyond the immediate benefits of improved infrastructure and services, holding a lot for the future of the state.
The commissioning of the additional aircraft and renovated state library is in line with the governor’s campaign promise to ensure the completion of ongoing and inherited projects across the state. Otu, popularly known as Sweet Prince, a transformational leader and quintessential democrat, who appears to see government as a continuum, had prior to his election as Cross River governor assured Cross Riverians that he would not abandon projects initiated by his predecessors.
Since assumption of office on May 29, 2023, he has faithfully and sincerely kept to his promise by renovating and rehabilitating dilapidated projects and infrastructures for the benefit of the people that elected him, as their governor. In his determined drive for continuity, Otu, according to reports, has completed 40 percent of all abandoned projects by past administrations in the state within two years in office.
Cross Riverians are happy with the governor in his determination to place Cross River on the path of economic prosperity. Various individuals and groups have commended him for working assiduously round the clock to see to the actualization of his People-First agenda, as contained in his manifesto upon which the mandate to govern the state was given to him.
Speaking as the representative of President Tinubu at the commissioning of the projects, Vice President Shettima lauded the governor’s vision and efforts in laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and development in Cross River State. He noted that Cross River is working in tandem with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance food security, energy security and economic independence. The VP was quoted as saying that “Cross River is demonstrating what strong subnational leadership looks like. The country needs more of this kind of vision.”
Expressing his joy over the developments, Governor Otu, after the commissioning of the projects, wrote on his Facebook page:
“Today, my heart swelled with pride for our dear Cross River State.
“At the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Vice President Kashim Shettima, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commissioned two brand-new Cally Air aircraft, and spoke so warmly about our vision for economic growth, tourism, and aviation initiative.
“I am deeply grateful for his commendation, but even more thankful to the people of Cross River whose belief in our shared dream makes days like this possible.
“From the tourism strides under Donald Duke, to rural development championed by Liyel Imoke, to industrialization driven by Ben Ayade, we have taken these ‘three engines’ and fused them into a single, powerful drive toward a diversified, self-reliant economy.
“With Cally Air now growing from two to four aircraft and three more on the horizon, we are not just expanding a fleet, we are positioning Cross River as an aviation hub for Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea, and unlocking more opportunities for our people.
“This is our Renewed Hope in action.
“This is Cross River Rising.
“Together with Vice President Kashim Shettima, we also unveiled the newly remodeled Cross River State Library Complex, now home to a cutting-edge ICT Hub for MSMEs.
“His Excellency (the VP) then launched the MSME Clinic, where he announced the disbursement of ₦250,000 each to outstanding business owners across our state.
“This is part of our broader commitment to empower entrepreneurs, grow our local economy, and position Cross River as a hub for innovation and opportunity.
“The journey to a more prosperous Cross River is in full motion and we are just getting started.”
The Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, in a congratulatory message to the governor, hailed him for his unwavering commitment to the development of Cross River State and the welfare of the people.
The Minister in his message said: “I heartily felicitate with my Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, and the good people of Cross River State on the addition of two aircraft to the existing fleet of Cally Air, as well as the completion of the comprehensive renovation of the State Library Complex, once a symbol of decay and neglect.
“These targeted interventions reflect your profound leadership and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our people. This is truly inspiring. I am hopeful that the impact of these two landmark projects will both ease the challenges of travelling to our dear state and re-ignite the enthusiasm of our teeming youth for education.
“Your Excellency, your governance continues to deliver transformative changes, improving lives and shaping a brighter future for our state. As we celebrate these achievements, I look forward to our continued progress under your leadership.”
The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District in the Senate, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, leader of the Cross River APC Caucus in the National Assembly, in a message, said:
“On behalf of the Cross River State APC Caucus in the National Assembly, we warmly congratulate our Governor, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on delivering yet another bold statement of leadership and vision.
“The commissioning of two additional aircraft into Cally Air’s fleet by the Vice President, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, is more than an investment in aviation, it is an investment in opportunity, connectivity, and the prosperity of our people. By growing the fleet to four, with clear plans for further expansion, the Otu administration is not just opening our skies but opening doors for tourism, trade, and jobs across our state and region.
“Equally, the transformation of our State Library Complex into a modern center of learning reflects a deep understanding that infrastructure must serve both our economy and our minds. This is the kind of leadership that builds both wealth and wisdom.
“This is yet another proud moment for Cross River State.”
The lawmaker representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rep Bassey Akiba, applauded the governor for making tireless efforts aimed at transforming Cross River State for the good of the people.
Rep Akiba, who is the Deputy Chairman House Committee on Healthcare Services, gave the applause in a statement.
His statement reads: “Hearty congratulations to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Executive Governor of Cross River State.
“Your Excellency,
“With deep joy and admiration, I salute your purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to the transformation of Cross River State. The recent expansion and commissioning of the Cally Air fleet with two state-of-the-art Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets and the newly refurbished State Library Complex stand as shining testaments to your People First mantra in action.
“Through the Cally Air expansion, you have opened new frontiers for commerce, tourism, and interconnectivity, positioning our dear state as a hub of opportunity and economic growth.
“In the remodeling of the State Library Complex, you have re-ignited the flame of knowledge, offering our students, researchers, and dreamers a world-class facility that inspires learning, innovation, and intellectual excellence.
“These achievements are not mere projects; they are legacies and tangible proofs of a leader who listens, cares, and acts in the best interest of his people.
“Your leadership is steadily re-writing the story of Cross River State, restoring faith in governance, and proving that when the people come first, progress is inevitable.
“On behalf of the great people of Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency, I congratulate and commend you for these landmark strides while praying God to grant you good health, wisdom, and grace as you lead our state to greater heights.”
On his part, the Senator representing Cross River South, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, remarked: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the entire people of Cross River State on yet another milestone in our collective journey of growth and development. The introduction of two new aircraft into the operations of Cally Air, commissioned today by the Vice President, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, stands as a testament to the Governor’s visionary leadership, commitment to expanding our state’s aviation capacity, and dedication to improving connectivity, tourism, and commerce.
“Equally commendable is the successful completion of the comprehensive renovation of our world-class State Library Complex a beacon of knowledge and a vital investment in the intellectual capital of our people. These achievements not only inspire pride but also reaffirm the administration’s resolve to deliver impactful projects that touch lives and shape the future of our dear state.”
A former House of Representatives aspirant in Cross River State, Dr. Martha Agba, equally commended Sweet Prince for his remarkable feats in infrastructure development.
Dr Agba was of the conviction that the two new aircraft acquired for Cally Air, the state-owned airline and the remodelled library, said to be equipped with world-class, state-of-the-art facilities, would bring long-term benefits to Cross Riverians and the state’s economy.
She was reported to have said: “In just two years, you (Governor Otu) have demonstrated a rare blend of purpose, foresight, and action. These milestones will be remembered for generations to come.”
Michael Jegede, a journalist, writes from Abuja