Governor Otu Conferred with Honorary Doctorate from Modibbo Adama University
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has been conferred with an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree by Modibbo Adama University, Yola, in recognition of his contributions to governance, public service and humanitarian development.
The university said the award was presented during its combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies, following the approval of its Senate and Governing Council.
The institution disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday.
Presenting the honour, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, described the award as a collective academic recognition of a public career marked by integrity, inclusiveness and tangible impact on society.
He said the honour is reserved for leaders whose influence goes beyond their immediate offices and locations, adding that Governor Otu’s leadership style reflects a people-focused and humane approach to governance.
According to Prof. Umar, Otu has consistently shown that leadership is rooted in responsibility to society, noting that his record in public service aligns with the university’s values of institutional strengthening, inclusion and sustainable development.
The university said the award recognises the governor’s role in promoting social development, national unity and humanitarian service, describing him as a leader committed to building bridges and strengthening institutions.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Otu described the honorary doctorate as a validation of service to humanity, saying he received the honour on behalf of all those who believe governance should positively impact lives.
He said the recognition carried greater responsibility, adding that it served as a renewed call to deepen commitment to justice, equity and compassion in public life.
The governor also spoke on the role of education in national development, describing universities as key drivers of nation-building and future leadership. He dedicated the honour to young Nigerians whose aspirations depend on purposeful and humane leadership.
Otu further commended Modibbo Adama University for recognising values such as integrity and service, saying the gesture reinforced the ethical foundations of leadership in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate and staff, Prof. Umar congratulated the governor and praised his contributions to national development, expressing the university’s readiness to engage with leaders who promote unity and inspire hope.
