By Peter Omopo
Benin City, July 7, 2025 — The Vice Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum and Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has declared the region’s unwavering support for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, citing the president’s “transformative economic strides and bold leadership.”
Governor Otu made the declaration during the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Stakeholders’ Meeting held in Benin City, Edo State, on Saturday. He described Tinubu as a “visionary leader” and “the Jagaban of Africa,” whose governance has steered Nigeria onto a path of renewed hope and national recovery.
“We have come with an alabaster of endorsements, and we are pouring generously and unreservedly on our dear captain of the Progressives,” Otu said.
Reflecting on Cross River State’s early alignment with the APC in the region, Otu recalled that the state once felt politically “orphaned” but had remained confident in its choice. “We assuaged the loneliness with the conviction that we took an informed decision because hope was indeed on the horizon,” he remarked.
Otu praised the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that key policy decisions—such as the removal of fuel subsidies, unification of exchange rates, expansion of foreign reserves to $40 billion, and a $13.17 billion trade surplus—were clear signs of economic recovery and global investor confidence.
He also commended other people-centred initiatives, including the student loan programme, increased consumer credit access, tariff waivers on essential goods, and agricultural incentives, which he said were easing citizens’ burdens and driving productivity.
“Our focus on infrastructure, economic growth, and social welfare is well poised. Our delivery strides across various sectors are gallant and sustainable,” Otu asserted.
Highlighting Tinubu’s resilience in the face of national challenges, Otu said, “Nothing attracts greatness to a personality like consistency of character and excellence of courage in the face of daunting demands.”
He urged APC stakeholders and citizens of the South-South to consolidate their support behind Tinubu and the party. “It is a grave error to change a working formula, a productive philosophy, or an efficient workman,” Otu warned.
The meeting reaffirmed the South-South APC’s commitment to unity, party strength, and sustained national development ahead of the 2027 elections.
