Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu has felicitated elder statesman, renowned banker, and respected philanthropist, Chief Dr. Asuquo Ekpenyong, FCIB, OON, on the occasion of his 78th birthday, describing him as “an extraordinary icon of excellence, wisdom, and noble service whose life continues to illuminate pathways of greatness for generations.”
In a deeply heartfelt goodwill message released by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, commemorating the milestone, Governor Otu extolled Chief Ekpenyong’s towering accomplishments in banking, enterprise, faith, and humanitarian service, noting that his life’s journey remains a glowing testament to integrity, visionary leadership, and uncommon generosity. “Today, Cross River State celebrates not merely the passing of years,” the Governor said, “but the enduring triumph of character, discipline, sacrifice, and purposeful living embodied by Chief Dr. Asuquo Ekpenyong.”
Governor Otu further praised the Chief Ekpenyong’s immense contributions to the economic and social development of the state, noting that his indelible footprints are etched across institutions, communities, and countless individual lives uplifted by his wisdom and benevolence.
“His remarkable contributions to banking, enterprise, faith, and humanity have left lasting impressions far beyond our borders,” Governor Otu stated. “He is a shining symbol of what steadfast excellence and service to humanity can achieve.”
Reflecting on the elder statesman’s revered standing, the governor described Chief Ekpenyong as “a father figure, a guiding light, and a repository of wisdom whose noble spirit inspires admiration, gratitude, and deep respect among all who have the privilege of encountering him.”
He further added: “Men of his calibre are rare gifts to society, builders of institutions, nurturers of destinies, and custodians of enduring values that strengthen the moral fabric of our people.”
Otu also paid glowing tribute to Chief Ekpenyong’s philanthropic legacy, acknowledging his quiet but profound investments in human capital, community development, and faith-based service. “Beyond his distinguished professional attainments,” he said, “Chief Ekpenyong’s greatest wealth lies in the lives he has touched, the hopes he has restored, and the countless doors of opportunity he has opened for others through compassion, humility, and fatherly grace.”
Offering prayers for the celebrant, Governor Otu declared: “As you mark this glorious milestone, it is my earnest prayer that the Almighty adorn this new chapter of your life with divine favour, radiant health, serene peace, renewed strength, and unending joy. May your years ahead blossom even more richly in grace, abundance, and fulfillment. May your enduring legacy of honour, philanthropy, and wise fatherly guidance shine ever more brilliantly for generations yet unborn. May history continue to record you as a man whose life is spent not merely in personal achievement, but in uplifting humanity and enriching society with uncommon nobility of heart.”
Governor Otu noted that Chief Ekpenyong’s 78th birthday offers a fitting moment for collective reflection on a life of uncommon distinction and purposeful impact. “This celebration is not only about one man’s remarkable journey,” he remarked, “it is also about the timeless virtues he represents—service, excellence, dignity, compassion, and uncommon faith in God and humanity.”
He prayed that Chief Dr. Asuquo Ekpenyong continues to enjoy God’s abiding grace, peace, and prosperity, while remaining a beacon of wisdom and inspiration to the state, the nation, and generations to come.
