By Peter Effiom
At the University of Calabar’s 38th Convocation Ceremony, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, the governor of Cross River State, received an Honorary Doctorate in Political Science (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his contributions to public service, development, and governance in both the state and the country.
The convocation ceremony, held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, attracted guests from academia, government, and the commercial sector and emphasized Senator Otu’s impact on public administration, socioeconomic growth, and political leadership in Cross River State.
The University of Calabar emphasized Senator Otu’s efforts to improve infrastructure, encourage investment, enhance public welfare, and commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development as it presented the award.
In his response, Senator Otu thanked the university administration for the honour and reiterated his administration’s dedication to programmes that will promote social, educational, and economic advancement in the state.
Rear Admiral Garba Abubakar, a retired navy leader, and business tycoon Chief Arthur Eze were also awarded honorary doctorates.
During the event, 463 Nigerians, including Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, received the university’s esteemed Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and were inducted into the Alumni Association.
Recall that earlier this year, Modibbo Adama University in Yola gave Senator Otu an honorary doctorate in recognition of his extensive contributions to public service, governance, and humanitarian development throughout Nigeria.
In addition, he was named Governor of the Year by the Sun Newspaper. In addition to thanking the Sun Newspaper, Governor Otu dedicated the awards to all Cross Riverians, both domestically and internationally, and to everyone who has contributed to the state’s current situation.
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