Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has paid glowing tribute to former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN), describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest legal minds and an enduring source of pride to Cross River State and the nation as he marked his 80th birthday.
Governor Otu made the remarks on Thursday during a visit to Agabi’s residence in Abuja to celebrate the legal luminary’s milestone birthday.
The governor commended the elder statesman for what he described as eight decades of exemplary service, integrity and unwavering dedication to justice, public service and national development.
According to Otu, Agabi’s distinguished career as a former senator, two-time Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, as well as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has earned him a permanent place in Nigeria’s legal and political history.
He said the former justice minister’s life embodies excellence, scholarship, patriotism and selfless service.
“On behalf of the Government and the peace-loving people of Cross River State, I heartily congratulate this distinguished statesman, eminent jurist, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, former Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and accomplished parliamentarian on the joyous occasion of your 80th birthday.
“Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi stands as one of the finest ornaments of the legal profession and an enduring source of pride to Bekwarra, Cross River State and our great nation,” Otu said.
The governor praised Agabi’s immense contributions to Nigeria’s legal and constitutional development, noting that his decades of legal practice and public service have continued to inspire generations of lawyers, public servants and political leaders.
“Your remarkable journey has been defined by uncommon brilliance, intellectual depth, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the cause of justice and nation-building.
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“Through decades of selfless service at the Bar and in public office, you have etched your name in the annals of our country’s history as a legal luminary whose profound wisdom, eloquence and fidelity to the rule of law continue to inspire generations of lawyers, public servants and leaders across Nigeria,” he stated.
Otu further described Agabi as one of Cross River State’s most distinguished ambassadors, saying his humility, discipline, patriotism and commitment to service are as remarkable as his professional accomplishments.
He said the octogenarian’s life demonstrates that true greatness is built on character, integrity and dedication to humanity.
“We salute not only your extraordinary professional accomplishments but also the enduring legacy of honour, excellence, humility and patriotism that you have bequeathed to our people.
“Your life remains a shining testament to the limitless possibilities that abound when talent is guided by discipline, character and an abiding faith in service to humanity,” the governor added.
Reaffirming the state’s pride in Agabi’s achievements, Otu said the legal icon has brought honour to Bekwarra Local Government Area, Cross River State and Nigeria through his distinguished career and exemplary leadership.
“Cross River State is immensely proud to call you one of her most illustrious sons, and Bekwarra is forever enriched by the towering example you have become,” he said.
The governor prayed for continued good health, divine grace and longevity for the former Attorney General, expressing hope that he would continue to provide wise counsel and inspiration to future generations.
“It is my earnest prayer that Almighty God grants you many more years in robust health, divine grace, abiding peace and continued fulfilment, as you remain a reservoir of wise counsel and an enduring beacon of hope for our nation. May your golden legacy continue to illuminate the path of generations yet unborn,” Otu said.