By Distinguished Senator Pastor Bill Francis Bill
From my nursery school days through primary school, secondary school, and eventually the University of Calabar (UNICAL), I have always found myself naturally connected to people who emerged as leaders. Even from my earliest days in school, I would see myself walking with school prefects, student leaders, presidents and other prominent personalities, and somehow, these were people I called friends. At UNICAL, that same pattern continued. I would often see myself around student presidents, Senate presidents, deputy Senate presidents, vice presidents and other influential student leaders. Looking back today, I believe those experiences were not accidental; they were part of a journey that was gradually preparing me for where I am today. Sir Benedict Ayade CON Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Kenneth Anam Francis Peters Governor Bassey Otu Gov Bassy Edet Otu Office of the wife of the Cross River State Governor Peter Akpanke
Now that I am actively involved in secular politics, I am beginning to understand those experiences from a different perspective. Today, I have the privilege of finding myself around the family of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, particularly around his son, Hon. Edem Bassey Otu, whom I regard as one of the most humble and humanitarian governor’s sons in Nigeria. What stands out to me is his simplicity, accessibility and genuine concern for people. He is a man who can pick your call, listen to people and relate with individuals without making anyone feel inferior simply because he is the son of a sitting governor. To me, that kind of humility speaks volumes about his character and the values instilled in him by his family.
The more I come closer to this family, the more I see qualities that inspire me—humility, straightforwardness, compassion, accessibility and genuine concern for humanity. I see a family that understands that leadership is not about making people feel small, but about lifting people up. I see a young man who carries the privilege of being a governor’s son with remarkable humility and a clear sense of responsibility. For me, this is something worthy of appreciation, and I can only say, Thank You, Jesus, for this great opportunity and for allowing me to witness these things firsthand.
I am therefore proud to identify with the Evidence Campaign Group, a movement whose message continues to resonate with me: Evidence, no noise, just evidence. I am equally honoured to serve as the Senior Chief Media Consultant to the Evidence Campaign Group—undisputed and undiluted. This journey has reminded me that sometimes, the connections and experiences we encounter from childhood are quietly preparing us for a greater assignment ahead. Today, I remain grateful for the opportunity to witness leadership, humility and humanity from close range.
Sign..
Distinguished Senator, Pastor, Ambassador Bill Francis Bill
SA to the Governor on Cross River State Executive Governor on Community Communication
Senior Chief Media Consultant, Evidence Campaign Group