Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, in recognition of his contributions to governance, public service and humanitarian development across Nigeria.

The honour was conferred during the university’s combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies at the weekend.

Governor Otu received the Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa) following the unanimous approval of the University Senate and Governing Council. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, described the award as “an academic salute to a life of service marked by integrity, inclusion and measurable impact on society.”

According to Prof. Umar, the honorary doctorate is reserved for leaders whose influence goes beyond public office to positively affect lives and strengthen institutions. He noted that Governor Otu’s leadership style reflects people-centred governance anchored on compassion and responsibility.

“Governor Otu has consistently shown that leadership is not about authority alone, but about service to humanity,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

The university explained that the award was given in recognition of the governor’s contributions to social development, national unity and humanitarian service, adding that his leadership philosophy aligns with the core values of Modibbo Adama University.

In his acceptance speech, Governor Otu described the honour as a reaffirmation that service to humanity remains the highest achievement of leadership. He said the award was not a personal honour but a tribute to collective efforts aimed at uplifting society.

“An honorary doctorate is not a destination but a renewed call to duty,” he said. “It challenges leaders to deepen their commitment to justice, equity and compassion.”

The governor stressed the importance of education to national development, describing universities as vital institutions for shaping the future of the country. He dedicated the honour to young Nigerians whose aspirations depend on purposeful and humane leadership.

Governor Otu also commended the university for celebrating values such as integrity and service, noting that such recognition strengthens the moral foundation of leadership in Nigeria.

He paid tribute to Professor Afolabi Ogufekun, whom he described as a respected scholar and leader, praising his contributions to the development of the institution and Adamawa State.

Expressing confidence in the future of Modibbo Adama University, Governor Otu applauded the discipline, academic standards and commitment of the university community, stating that the institution is well positioned for continued growth and excellence.

Earlier, Prof. Umar thanked the governor for his contributions to national development, noting that the university was proud to associate with a leader whose impact extends beyond politics.

The ceremony ended on a note of academic pride and civic celebration, reaffirming the university’s tradition of recognising excellence in service to humanity.