By Linus Obogo
At a time when good governance is considered a desideratum, and recognized as pivotal for socio-economic advancement, but has, however, become a mirage, Governor Bassey Otu’s recent meeting with critical stakeholders in the state indicates a giant leap towards inclusive and sustainable development.
The engagement which held Tuesday, last week, at Hoggis Hotel, Calabar, for all intents and purposes, was not merely a political formality but a robust platform for conversations aimed at charting a direction for the future of the state through the synergies of its most influential voices. The governor’s emphasis on “Think Cross River” on the occasion, underscores a commitment to collective wisdom—a critical element for any administration desirous of fostering growth and resilience in its citizenry.
At the core of Governor Otu’s address was a profound understanding of good governance as a collaborative effort rather than a linear exercise of power. Otu unequivocally asserted that governance transcended the mere imposition of policies by individuals; it is about the formulation and implementation of strategies that resonate with the aspirations of the people.
By intentionally inviting diverse segments—ranging from government officials to community leaders, into the decision-making process, Governor Otu signals a radical departure from autocratic governance models towards a more participatory approach.
This participatory governance model is essential for Cross River, a state endowed with unique geographical and natural resources that offer immense potential for growth. By engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue, the governor aims to harness their insights, experiences, and expertise, creating a well-rounded development strategy that reflects the voices of the citizens.
The “Think Cross River” initiative serves as a catalyst for cross-pollination of ideas. It recognizes that the challenges facing the state are multifaceted, requiring innovative solutions that draw from a variety of perspectives. By assembling an array of stakeholders, Governor Otu creates a fertile ground for brainstorming and collaborative problem-solving.
The stakeholders assembled were not just passive participants; they represented a rich tapestry of experiences and knowledge that can inform policy decisions. The presence of key high net worth individuals and policy makers, underscores the seriousness with which the administration is approaching the task of governance. Their expertise will illuminate various components of the state’s development matrix, focusing on critical sectors that could lead to transformative outcomes.
As part of the interactive engagement, Governor Otu expressed his commitment to sharing the vision, plans, and opportunities available to the state. This transparency is no doubt laudable as it is crucial for fostering trust between the government and its citizens. By laying out a clear roadmap, the administration I determined to galvanize support for its initiatives, ensuring that the citizenry is not only informed but also actively involved in the development agenda.
The governor’s commitment to briefing stakeholders on the progress of various projects indicates a proactive approach to governance—one that values accountability and engagement. By discussing the state’s development trajectory, the administration can assess its impact on the standard of living for Cross Riverians and make necessary adjustments to its strategies.
By assembling the diverse segment of stakeholders cutting across policy makers and business communities underscores Governor Otu’s understanding of the complexities of governance which require input from various sectors of society. The diverse expertise of the panelists—from the Commissioner for Crops and Irrigation Development, Johnson A. Ebekpo Jnr., Director-General, Bureau for Public Private Partnership, Dr. Francis Ntamu to the Vice Chairman and CEO of the State Planning Commission, Dr. Bond Duke—ensured that discussions encompassed a wide array of topics, including agriculture, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation.
This collaborative effort is particularly critical in a state like ours, which is buffeted by economic challenges reminiscent of those affecting other sub-national entities. By tapping into the collective intelligence of its stakeholders, the government is ready to devise home-grown solutions tailored to the state’s unique peculiarities. The emphasis on local solutions reflects the understanding that external models may not always be applicable or beneficial to the specific context of Cross River.
Governor Otu’s acknowledgment of the economic tenterhooks on which the state is sitting is a candid recognition of the challenges at hand. The global economic climate has shifted, and many sub-national economies are grappling with the repercussions of these changes. In this context, the governor’s call for innovative thinking and a departure from conventional practices was both urgent and necessary.
The emphasis on “doing things differently” is a clarion call for creativity and adaptability in governance. It underpins the need for policies that are not only effective but also sustainable in the long term. By leveraging the state’s geographical advantages—such as its rich biodiversity and strategic location—Cross River can develop a resilient economy capable of withstanding external shocks while promoting the welfare of its citizenry.
One of the most promising aspects of Governor Otu’s approach is the readiness of his administration to implement the outcomes of the stakeholder engagement. This commitment to action is crucial for translating ideas into tangible benefits for the general good of the population. By prioritizing the implementation of essential elements that emerged from these discussions, the administration will not only demonstrate its genuine desire but also its eagerness to respond to the needs and aspirations of the people.
Moreover, the willingness to adapt and refine policies based on stakeholder input reflects an administration that values the opinions of its citizens. This participatory approach fosters a sense of ownership among stakeholders, encouraging them to take an active role in the development process. When citizens feel invested in their government’s initiatives, they are more likely to support and engage with those programs.
As Cross River is poised to experience an economic re-engineering under Governor Otu, his initiative to engage stakeholders in governance symbolizes a hopeful vision for the future. By fostering an environment of collaboration, transparency, and adaptability, his administration is laying the groundwork for sustainable development that prioritizes the needs of the citizens.
Regardless the daunting challenges, but with a shared commitment to innovative thinking and collective action, the state can navigate its economic landscape effectively. But this can only be achieved if we, going by the admonition of the governor, “Let us therefore put on our thinking caps and do things differently for the growth of our dear State, Cross River.” May this sentiment resonate as a guiding principle for the synergetic voyage ahead.
Obogo is Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Otu.
*The views expressed are the author’s and so not represent the views of www.calitown.com.
