On November 1, Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu honored his commitment to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) by presenting a new 14-seater Innoson Motors bus to support their operations. The handover ceremony underscored the administration’s recognition of the media’s vital role in advancing the state’s “people first” agenda.
The vehicle, manufactured by Nigerian automaker Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), was presented to the NUJ Cross River State Council on Governor Otu’s behalf by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar. Speaking at the event, Ironbar emphasized that the bus would enhance the Union’s mobility and operational capacity, enabling journalists to cover events more effectively within and outside the state.
“I am pleased to present this 14-seater bus as promised by His Excellency on the 1st of November, 2024,” Ironbar stated. “The governor appreciates the dedication of the media in Cross River and urges continued partnership for the state’s growth and development.”
NUJ Cross River State Council Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Union, acknowledging the governor’s commitment to fulfilling promises. He reiterated the Union’s commitment to supporting the government’s programs and initiatives, seeing this gesture as a positive step toward a productive partnership.
This donation fulfills a pledge Governor Otu made at a dinner with journalists on June 12, 2024, during his first anniversary in office. At the time, he promised a new vehicle to recognize the media’s essential role in informing the public and promoting accountability.
As Cross River approaches its annual tourism season, the administration’s support of the media reflects a commitment to collaboration that strengthens public engagement and fosters the state’s developmental vision.
