Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey (Centre), Vatican Diplomat, Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty (2nd R); Metropolitan Archbishop of Calabar, Most Rev (Dr) Joseph Effiong Ekuwem (2nd L); Bishop of Uyo Diocese, Most Rev John Ebebey Ayah (1st L) and Auxiliary Bishop of Calabar, Most Rev. Christopher Naseri (1st R) during the visit.
By Anietie Akpan
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to faith in God Almighty and good governance, calling for prayers for the government and the people of Cross River.
Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Governor on Monday, March 3, welcomed the Vatican diplomat, Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, who, in turn, offered prayers and blessings for the state on behalf of Pope Francis.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Deputy Governor Peter Odey highlighted the historical bond between Cross River and the Catholic Church, acknowledging its role in shaping the state’s moral and educational landscape.
“Cross River State has a rich Catholic heritage, being the first state in Nigeria to have contact with the Church. We are deeply grateful for the role the Catholic Church has played in our development through education, values, and the promotion of peace,” he stated.
Beyond recognizing the Church’s contributions, Governor Otu made a heartfelt call for divine intervention in the affairs of the state.
“Cross River is a praying state. We entrust our governance and our people to God, seeking His guidance in all we do. As you visit, we ask that you pray for our government, for our people, and for continued peace and prosperity in our land,” Odey said.
Governor Otu’s call for prayers and the Apostolic Nuncio’s blessing on the state underscored the central role of faith in Cross River’s governance, reaffirming its commitment to seeking divine direction in its affairs.
In response, Most Rev. Crotty assured the Governor and the people of Cross River of Pope Francis’ prayers and goodwill as he commended the state’s hospitality and offered a special prayer for its continued growth and stability.
“It is an honor to be here in Cross River State, a place of faith and warmth. On behalf of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, I bring his greetings and blessings to you. I assure you that the Pope holds Nigeria dearly in his heart and prays for its progress. I also pray that this state continues to thrive under God’s grace,” the Apostolic Nuncio said.
The visit, which further strengthened the relationship between the Vatican and Cross River State, was attended by top government officials and religious leaders, including Metropolitan Archbishop of Calabar, Most Rev (Dr) Joseph Effiong Ekuwem; Bishop of Uyo Diocese; Most Rev. John Ebebe Ayah; Auxiliary Bishop of Calabar, Most Rev. Christopher Naseri, Secretary to the State Government (SGS); Prof. A. Owan-Enoh and the Chief of Staff (COS), Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar among others.
