The Catholic Archdiocese of Calabar, on Monday, lauded the Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu, for his tremendous achievements in a little over a year in office.
Praising Governor Otu during a courtesy call on him at his Dan Archibong temporary office in Calabar, the delegation of the Calabar Archdiocese, led by the parish priest of St. Charles Lwanga, Rev. Father Malachy Ephraim, commended the governor’s achievements and expressed optimism for continued collaboration between the state government and the Catholic Church.
“We must confess that we are proud of your accomplishments within this short period in office. Your elevation and installation as an Apostle are testaments to your growth in Christ and commitment to service,” Fr. Ephraim stated.
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The delegation highlighted the Catholic Church’s historical contributions to Cross River State, particularly in health, education, and human development, while appealing for government support to rectify past damages to Church infrastructure.
“In 1945, the first Catholic Bishop of Calabar secured the property that now hosts Holy Child College, which opened in 1952.
However, a house for our bishop, started in 1953, was destroyed in 1971 by the then government of the state. We have begun efforts to rebuild, and we appeal for support to correct this mistake,” Fr. Ephraim concluded.
In response, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering tangible progress in the face of criticism, emphasizing that his government’s actions will speak louder than words.
The Governor thanked the delegation for the visit and acknowledged the challenges of leading a state in dire economic straits but maintained that his administration is determined to overcome them.
“We came to meet a state that was challenged economically, but we knew where the issues were. Changing the narrative required tackling obstacles head-on. Sooner or later, posterity will vindicate our efforts.”
He further emphasized inclusive governance, noting that the welfare of the people remains his top priority.
“Government is for everybody, not for a few.
We cannot continue with a situation where a small minority benefits while the majority suffers. Even with limited funds, we are making progress that neutral observers can recognize as genuine efforts to uplift our state.”
Otu said that regardless of the voices of critics, “The only way to reply to critics is to do even more. I am not so much a fan of too much press and media, but I know that actions speak louder than words.
What we have done within the past few months is worth much more. When people critique, they know deep down that we are doing our very best,” he added.