The Southern Caucus of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly has passed a vote of confidence on Governor Bassey Otu, declaring him as its choice for the 2027 governorship election. 
  
The lawmakers, comprising representatives of Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Biase, Calabar South 1, Calabar South 2, Calabar Municipal, and Odukpani constituencies, who made their position clear during a press briefing in Calabar on Tuesday. They said the endorsement is in recognition of Otu’s remarkable achievements and capacity in governance since assuming office.
  
Speaking on behalf of the Caucus, the member representing Odukpani Constituency and Leader of the Assembly, Francis Asuquo, said after a thorough and unbiased assessment of governance in Cross River State since 1998, it concluded that Otu’s administration, in comparison with achievements in first two years of former governors’ first terms, has made significant strides in infrastructure development, economic policies, human development, peace, and security.

MEANWHILE, Otu has commended the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Obudu Cattle Ranch into a major hub for livestock and dairy production in Nigeria.
  
Speaking through his Deputy, Peter Odey, during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the governor described the initiative as a welcome development. He highlighted Obudu’s unique climate, rich biodiversity, and vast landmass as key advantages for large-scale livestock farming and dairy production.
  
The governor emphasised that global economic shifts provide an opportunity for Nigeria to expand its agricultural exports and attract agribusiness investments. He urged stakeholders to leverage agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, shifting from subsistence farming to large-scale commercial production.
  
“Nigeria’s economic future depends on our ability to fully harness our agricultural and livestock resources. Large-scale investments in agriculture will enhance food security, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings,” he stated.