In a powerful and overwhelming display of support ahead of the 2027 general elections, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has promised that the state will deliver 96 per cent vote for President Bola Tinubu to ensure his re-election.

Governor Otu, speaking at the Cross River Southern Consultative Forum endorsement event held at U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, on Wednesday, expressed gratitude to the people of Cross River South for their massive turnout despite poor weather conditions. Representing President Tinubu, the governor conveyed the President’s appreciation for the region’s support and reaffirmed their shared commitment to development.

The governor highlighted achievements under his administration, including laying a solid economic foundation, improving GDP and productivity, and enhancing the state’s investment profile. He acknowledged that while some areas still require attention, significant progress has been made across various sectors, including security, economic reform, and public service delivery.

“We enlisted 13 dramatic areas of intervention when we assumed office. Today, I can say we’ve laid a solid economic foundation. Our GDP has risen, productivity levels are higher, and Cross River is now a destination of choice for investment and national conferences,” the governor said.

He emphasised security improvements, stating that over 16 miscreant camps had been dismantled, with the last one expected to be shut down in July. Former miscreants are being reintegrated through an amnesty program. On tourism, he announced plans to revamp the Carnival Calabar, promising an unprecedented celebration this December to mark its 20th anniversary.

The governor, who also noted key federal support in agriculture, said that the state’s programmes are now aligned with national objectives and have the potential to feed not only the region but the entire country.

He appealed for patience and understanding, especially from close associates who may feel neglected. “This burden is heavy. Running a state is hard; running 36 is harder. That’s why I say, give Mr. President time. Watch what he will do,” he noted.

He paid glowing tributes to the leader of the northern senatorial district for initiating his endorsement and thanked all the zones for uniting behind his vision. “Today, I represent every part of Cross River State—the old, young, men, women, physically challenged, and market women. Together, we are delivering,” he said.

Otu also reiterated his spiritual conviction, declaring himself a servant leader under God’s guidance. He concluded with a renewed commitment to inclusivity and development, expressing gratitude to the people for their continued trust and support.

Political leaders from the seven local government areas of the southern senatorial district who spoke praised President Tinubu’s bold leadership and economic reform agenda at the national level, while even more resounding applause was reserved for Otu, whose “People First” governance style was described as transformative.

To formalise the endorsements, former presidential aide, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, moved the motion for President Tinubu’s re-election, seconded by former Minister of Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke.

The event was attended by all elected members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state, including members of the National Assembly, support groups, Security operatives, cultural groups, bikers, civil servants, and thousands of residents