Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has mourned the death of a former governor of defunct Gongola State and ex-industry minister, Bamanga Tukur, describing his death as a profound loss to Nigeria.

Mr Tukur, a prominent businessman, politician, and an administrator died on Saturday at 90.

In a condolence message on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, Mr Otu described the late Mr Tukur as a “statesman of considerable stature” whose contributions shaped significant chapters in Nigeria’s political and economic history.

He recalled Mr Tukur’s services as a general manager of the Nigerian Ports Authority, governor of the old Gongola State, minister of Industry and national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2012 to 2014.

The governor said that the various positions he held reflected a life dedicated to public service, enterprise, and national development.

He commended Mr Tukur’s contributions to African enterprise and investment through his leadership of the Africa Business Roundtable and the NEPAD Business Group.

According to him, Mr Tukur’s continental engagements demonstrated his commitment to expanding opportunities for African businesses and promoting economic development across the continent.

“Tukur has familial ties to Cross River through his wife. His confidence in Cross River’s economic potential was reflected in his investments in the state. His relationship with Cross River was not merely familial; it was also one expressed through enterprise, investment, and a genuine belief in the possibilities of our people,” Mr Otu said.

He described the deceased as “a friend and stakeholder whose interests transcended geographical boundaries.”

Mr Otu extended his condolences to Mr Tukur’s family, the government, and people of Adamawa State, his political associates, and the business community.

He expressed solidarity with the late Mr Tukur’s wife and her Cross River State family, praying that the bereaved would find strength and comfort in the legacy of the deceased.

“Though his mortal journey has ended, the imprint of his service to Nigeria, his commitment to enterprise and his faith in the possibilities of our nation will endure,” the governor said.

He prayed that Almighty Allah would reward Mr Tukur’s good deeds and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.

(NAN)