Bassey Otu (Sen.)

About Bassey Otu (Sen.)

Senator Bassey Edet Otu, popularly known as “Sweet Prince,” has been the Governor of Cross River State since May 29, 2023, serving under the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was born on October 18, 1959, in Adiabo, Cross River State, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from the University of Calabar. Before politics, he worked in the banking and petroleum sectors.

He spent 12 years in the National Assembly, serving in the House of Representatives (2003–2011) where he chaired the House Committee on Petroleum (Upstream), and later as Senator for Cross River South (2011–2015), chairing the Senate Committees on Finance and Banking. He was also appointed to the board of the National Health Insurance Scheme in 2018.

As governor, his “People First” agenda focuses on economic revitalization, infrastructure, and agriculture. Key projects include the revival of Tinapa Business and Resort, plans for the Bakassi Deep Seaport, and a ₦780.59 billion 2026 “Budget of Inclusive Growth.” His administration has supported agricultural cooperatives and earned him The Sun Governor of the Year 2025 award. He is married to Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu and has children.