By joshua
At 90, Anthony Ani’s Legacy Towers Above Time, Says Governor Bassey Otu
Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and former Minister of Finance, Etubom Anthony Ani, OFR, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished public servants whose extraordinary life of honour, discipline and selfless service has become an enduring national treasure.
In a goodwill message released by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, marking the elder statesman’s 90th birthday, Governor Otu said the nonagenarian’s remarkable journey remains a compelling testament to principled leadership, intellectual distinction and uncommon patriotism.
The Governor said the celebration represents far more than the marking of another birthday. According to him, “this remarkable anniversary is not merely the commemoration of a life measured in years, but the celebration of an enduring legacy fashioned by uncommon brilliance, unwavering integrity, disciplined service and an abiding devotion to the Nigerian project.”
Reflecting on Ani’s illustrious public career, Governor Otu noted that the former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance had earned an enviable place in Nigeria’s history through decades of exemplary service. He observed that Ani’s accomplishments as former Chairman of KPMG, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and respected traditional ruler have firmly established him among the nation’s finest statesmen.
“Your distinguished career, spanning the commanding heights of public service and the pinnacle of professional excellence, has etched your name indelibly into the annals of our national history,” the Governor declared. “Across every responsibility entrusted to you, you brought uncommon diligence, quiet strength, impeccable character and visionary leadership, leaving behind enduring footprints that continue to inspire confidence in the nobility of public service.”
Governor Otu further described the Odukpani-born icon as a priceless asset whose contributions continue to illuminate the path of younger generations. He stressed that Ani’s life demonstrates that true greatness is defined not by titles alone but by enduring impact, principled leadership and an unyielding commitment to the common good.
“Today, Cross River State proudly celebrates one of its most accomplished sons, a man whose towering accomplishments have been matched only by his humility, wisdom and unwavering commitment to justice, excellence and nation-building,” Otu said. “Your life has become a beacon whose radiance transcends generations, illuminating the path for young professionals, public servants and future leaders who seek to serve with honour, courage and distinction.”
The Governor also extolled Ani’s exemplary role as the Clan Head of Mbiabo Ikoneto, describing his traditional leadership as an extension of the same values of integrity, wisdom and service that distinguished his public career. According to him, the elder statesman has remained a steadfast custodian of Cross River’s cultural heritage, proving that authentic leadership is measured by “the lives one uplifts, the institutions one strengthens and the values one bequeaths to posterity.”
Otu noted that as Etubom Anthony Ani joins the exclusive league of nonagenarians, his life story offers an enduring lesson in excellence, resilience and faithful stewardship. He said the former minister’s towering legacy would continue to inspire Cross Riverians and Nigerians to pursue public service with integrity, professionalism and an unshakeable sense of duty.
Offering prayers for the celebrant, Governor Otu said, “I join your family, friends, associates and countless admirers across Nigeria and beyond in offering heartfelt gratitude to Almighty God for the immeasurable blessings of your life. May He continue to preserve you in robust health, perfect peace and abundant grace; may He crown your days with renewed strength, enduring fulfilment and divine favour, and may your extraordinary legacy continue to enrich Cross River State, strengthen our nation and inspire generations yet unborn.”
SOURCE: GOVERNMENT HOUSE PRESS CALABAR