Beyond the Gaming Revolution: Why Governor Otu’s Second-Term Bid Is Crucial to Sustaining Cross River’s Developmental Strides
Governments should not be judged only by what they start, but by what they are able to sustain, consolidate and turn into lasting institutions. That is why the debate over Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s second-term bid should go beyond politics. It should be about continuity and whether the foundations being laid across Cross River can be strengthened enough to deliver lasting benefits. The Cross River State Lottery and Gaming Agency is one example. As its pioneer Director-General, I witnessed its transition from an idea into a regulatory institution, supported by the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law, 2025. Its significance goes beyond gaming. It represents an effort to regulate an emerging industry, protect consumers, create jobs and develop legitimate revenue opportunities for the state. The next task is consolidation-modernising its systems, improving compliance and positioning it to become a stronger contributor to Cross River’s revenue architecture by 2031. But ...