The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has reaffirmed the State’s unwavering faith in God and commitment to good governance, urging prayers for the government and people of Cross River.

Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu received the Vatican’s Diplomatic Representative to Nigeria, the Apostolic Nuncio, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, who conveyed Pope Francis’ goodwill and bestowed prayers and blessings upon the State.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Deputy Governor Odey emphasized Cross River’s deep-rooted historical ties with the Catholic Church and acknowledged its profound influence on the State’s moral and educational development.

“Cross River State has a rich Catholic heritage, being the first in Nigeria to establish contact with the Church. We deeply appreciate the Church’s contributions to our growth, particularly in education, moral values, and the promotion of peace,” he stated.

Beyond recognizing the Church’s impact, Governor Otu made a heartfelt appeal for divine intervention in the State’s affairs.

“Cross River is a praying State. We place our governance and the well-being of our people in God’s hands, seeking His guidance in all that we do. As you visit, we ask that you pray for our government, our people, and for continued peace and prosperity in our land,” Odey said.

In his response, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty assured the Governor and the people of Cross River of Pope Francis’ prayers and blessings. He commended the State’s hospitality and offered special prayers for its continued progress and stability.

“It is a privilege to be here in Cross River State, a place of faith and hospitality. On behalf of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, I bring his greetings and blessings to you. The Pope holds Nigeria in his heart and continually prays for its peace and development. I also pray that this state continues to flourish under God’s grace,” the Apostolic Nuncio said.

The visit, which further strengthened ties between the Vatican and Cross River State, was attended by key government officials and religious leaders, including Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Effiong Ekuwem, Metropolitan Archbishop of Calabar Archdiocese; Most Rev. John Ebebe Ayah, Bishop of Uyo Diocese; Most Rev. Christopher Naseri, Auxiliary Bishop of Calabar; Prof. A. Owan-Enoh, Secretary to the State Government (SSG); and Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff (COS), among others.

Governor Otu’s call for prayers and the Apostolic Nuncio’s blessings underscored the integral role of faith in Cross River’s governance, reaffirming the state’s commitment to seeking divine direction in all its endeavors.