By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
The Nigeria Diaspora Business Network (NDBN), USA, in collaboration with Pillar of Equity, has announced plans for a mega rally in support of Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, citing their governance strides and legislative impact.
Addressing journalists ahead of the April 4, 2026 event, the group sought media partnership to mobilise public participation, particularly across the Southern Senatorial District. The rally is scheduled to hold at Bayatu Primary School Main Avenue, Calabar.
The organisers traced the group’s roots to 2022, noting that it played a significant grassroots mobilisation role during the last electoral cycle across the seven local government areas in the South, contributing to the emergence of the current leadership.
They said the decision to stage another rally was informed by what they described as “tangible and positive differences” in governance, stressing that effective leadership deserved renewed public backing.
Highlighting Governor Otu’s performance, the group pointed to interventions in critical sectors including education, security, tourism, infrastructure, employment, and economic development, which they said have begun to reposition the state.
They noted that the administration’s economic direction was anchored on a Cross River economic summit that produced a development roadmap, with agriculture identified as a key growth driver now receiving increased attention.
In education, the group cited the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship, alongside ongoing upgrades in existing institutions and schools, describing the efforts as foundational to long-term development.
On security, the briefing acknowledged improved safety across Calabar and its environs, attributing it to strengthened security architecture that has enhanced public confidence and night-time economic activities.
Tourism revival efforts also featured prominently, with the group referencing moves to restore the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort and ongoing improvements at Obudu Ranch Resort, as well as a revitalised Calabar Carnival, all aimed at boosting visitor inflow and economic activity.
They further commended infrastructure upgrades, particularly road rehabilitation across the southern axis, as well as responsive governance in addressing labour-related concerns, including the swift resolution of grievances involving commercial drivers.
The group also pointed to efforts to reclaim oil wells and expand the state’s economic base, expressing optimism that ongoing initiatives would yield significant revenue gains if sustained.
On the legislative front, the organisers praised Senator Ekpenyong’s performance, noting that as a first-term lawmaker, he has sponsored over 20 bills and moved several motions within two and a half years, describing the record as impressive.
They highlighted his role in advancing the South-South Development Commission Bill, as well as interventions in scholarships, empowerment programmes, and road infrastructure, including oversight of federal road projects to ensure improved travel time between Calabar and adjoining states.
The group concluded by urging the media and the public to support the rally and sustain momentum towards 2027, insisting that both the governor and the senator have demonstrated capacity and should be encouraged to consolidate on their achievements.
NDBN, Partners Rally Support for Otu, Ekpenyong at Press Briefing
