The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has the ability to handle Nigeria’s current economic and political challenges.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Stakeholders Meeting held in Benin City on Saturday, Governor Otu described Tinubu’s leadership as magical and praised the president’s efforts to move the country forward.

“We have come with an alabaster of endorsements. And we are pouring generously and unreservedly on our dear Captain of the Progressives… the Jagaban of Africa.”

He said the South-South region was already moving in the right direction under Tinubu’s leadership and urged party members to remain united.

“We in the South-South have tasted and trusted the capacity of Mr. President,” he said.

Governor Otu noted that Cross River was among the first states in the region to join the APC, even when it felt politically alone.

“We assuaged the loneliness with the conviction that we took an informed decision because hope was indeed on the horizon,” he explained.

He listed several achievements of the Tinubu administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including the removal of fuel subsidies, unification of foreign exchange rates, and a $13.17 billion trade surplus.

“These reforms have brought back investor confidence and helped to stabilize the economy,” Otu said.

He also praised the federal government’s efforts to support citizens, mentioning the student loan scheme, consumer credit access, removal of tariffs on essential goods, and agricultural support programmes.

“Our focus on infrastructure, economic growth, and social welfare is well poised,” he said. “Our delivery strides in various sectors are gallant and sustainable.”

Governor Otu emphasized that strong and consistent leadership is key to progress.

“Nothing attracts greatness to a personality like the consistency of character and excellency of courage in the face of daunting demands,” he said.

He advised party members not to disrupt what he called a working formula.

“It is a great error to change a working formula, a productive philosophy or an efficient workman,” the governor warned.

He ended his remarks with a blessing. “God bless the South-South APC! God bless the APC! God bless Nigeria!”