Staff Welfare is a Priority to the Governor - Assembly Commission Chairman

Iloke Egbe 

The chairman, Cross River State House of Assembly Service Commission Ntufam Hon Victor Okon has asserted that Staff welfare remains a priority to the administration of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu as the Governor has made himself accessible with a listening ear to the plight of the commission.

He gave the information during an interface with Staff in his office, House of Assembly Service Commission Complex Calabar while assuring that in no distance time the challenges noticed shall disappear one after the other, adding that any promise given by the Governor is like a bank note. 

In her contributions, the Permanent Secretary of the House of Assembly Service Commission Mrs. Jacqueline Banku Akpanke echoed the position of the chairman, adding that the Governor's promise is  a strong source of motivation, therefore,  Staff should put in the best and be patient as all that are seen as challenges shall be a  thing of the past.

Adding his voice, the Commissioner one in the commission Sir Leonard Anyogo reiterated that there is no reason for Staff to feel demoralized as the commission under the leadership of the chairman with the support members that are working as a team, the welfare of Staff is giving the required attention. That the Governor has been fully briefed on the status of the Commission and nothing shall cut short Staff expectations.

He assured Staff of the Governor's favourable disposition on matters that affect the commission. Other Commissioners also took time encouraged Staff to accept the position of the chairman as a team work which is for the good of the commission. Highlights of the meeting were questions and answers. 

In an interview with some Staff who were in attendance who alluded that the chairman is a man of his words, that under his administration there is evidence of progress as the myriad of challenges are reducing by the day.

GOV. OTU PRESENTS OFFICIAL VEHICLES TO ASSEMBLY SERVICE COMMISSION

Iloke Egbe 

In a deliberate move to enhance quality service delivery in the legislative arm of the State’s Government, the Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu has handed over two brand new official vehicles to the Cross River State House of Assembly Service Commission.

The Governor, represented by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar and witnessed by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly in compliance with the standards and conscious ideals of the People’s First administration of Governor Bassey Otu.

The Speaker RT. Hon. Elvert Ayambem lauded Governor. Otu’s genuine contributions which aimed at proffering an all-inclusive administration where all arms of Government thrive with ease, and further commended the Governor for upholding integrity while retaining the true spirit of the “PEOPLE FIRST” mantra. He added that the vehicles were testaments to the Governor's commitment to better improve and strengthen the workforce of the House of Assembly Service Commission

In his response, the Chairman of the Commission, Ntufam Hon. Victor Okon thanked the Governor for his visionary leadership for Cross River State, adding that the presentation of the vehicles and the class of the vehicles are indications that the Governor wishes the commission to be very productive as the vehicles will support effective and efficient service delivery.

Adding his voice, Commissioner one  who served as commissioner in charge of administration, Sir Leonard Anyogo was elated and assured the commission's continuous support in service delivery while also thanking the Speaker of the House of Assembly for his continuous efforts in promoting cordiality which has enabled the new commission to take off smoothly. Other Commissioners also took time to thank the Governor for his magnanimity to the commission.

Also, the clerk of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mrs Catherine Ujong Ubi shared her joy and joined in the celebration, stating that mobility enhances proficiency in administration. She  acknowledged the commitment of the Governor to quality service delivery which is meant to reposition the State positively.

The presentation of two units of Toyota Hilux  vehicles with white as the custom made to the State House of Assembly Service Commission is seen as a strategic moral booster for commission members and will surely reflect on the administration performance.

Commissioner of Education Commend CS-SUNN and State Committee on Nutrition for Impactful Coordination

Iloke Egbe, Patricia Oli

The Commissioner of Education, Senator Prof. Stephen Odey has commended Civil Society scaling up nutrition in Nigeria CS-SUNN and State Committee on Food and nutrition for their commitment at ensuring that Cross Riverians get the right information on the critical role nutrition plays in the growth and development of the human family as a means of improving nutrition outcomes.

Senator Odey affirmed the support of the Ministry to the committee during a courtesy visit to his office, Ministry of Education, old Secretariat Complex Calabar.

He described the objectives of the State committee on food and nutrition as an integral mantra of the Governor His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet and the partnership with CS-SUNN as a conscious alignment for effective service delivery, adding that the people first mantra is in practical term through the activities of the State committee on food and nutrition and the Civil Society as the coordination efforts and policy has made it possible for nobody to be left behind.

In his words, the educational component shall be provided as it's a priority for this administration to ensure that Cross Riverians enjoy good governance irrespective of ones location, adding that the multi-layer Stakeholders the committee has across the 18 Local Government Areas is a strong platform to improve the living standards of the people which is the essence of government.

The visit was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration for improved nutrition outcomes in Cross River State, led by the CS-SUNN Cross River State Head Mrs. Nkem Ubana, who also serves as the State Nutrition Officer, that the essence of the visit was to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry of Education and nutrition stakeholders in promoting school-based nutrition interventions. 

According to Mrs Nkem, the Nourish CR Project, is a nutrition initiative aimed at improving the nutritional status of children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups through school-based nutrition education, community engagement, clinical nutrition support, and educational assistance.

 The advocacy further sought the Ministry's support in strengthening nutrition governance, integrating nutrition into the education sector, and advancing policies and programmes that will improve the nutritional status and educational outcomes of children across Cross River State.  

 Adding her voice Mrs. Margaret Ekpo Head of Nutrition department in the Ministry presented the Nourish CR Project, explaining that it is designed to improve the nutrition and well-being of children and vulnerable populations in Cross River State.  He explained that, following consultations with key stakeholders, seven Local Government Areas across the three Senatorial Districts had been selected for the first phase of implementation.  

 and highlighted the major components of the initiative, including:  

 Establishment of three Clinical Malnutrition Centres, one in each Senatorial District, to strengthen the identification, referral, and management of malnutrition cases.  

 School-based nutrition education to promote healthy dietary practices among learners.  

 Establishment of Nourish Clubs in participating schools to provide continuous nutrition education and empower students to promote healthy nutrition practices within their homes and communities.  others were ​provision of educational support, including scholarships and school fee assistance for eligible vulnerable children. In attendance were members of the State committee on food and nutrition, CS-SUNN and management staff of Ministry of Education.

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C'R Govt. in Collaboration with FAO GEF 7 FOLUR-NG Organize Train the Trainers Workshop for Extension Service Delivery

Iloke Egbe 

The desire to ensure that farmers make optimum use of the different Agricultural seasons available to the State and that farmers get the right information to manage their crops in respect of the crop production protocol, the Cross River State Government in collaboration with Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, Global Environmental Facility Fund 7 and FOLUR-NG has organized train the trainers workshop for extension service delivery on sustainable and climate-smart cocoa, oil palm and food production.

Declaring the workshop open, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development Hon Johnson Ebokpo, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Elder Dr. Odey Joseph Ikongha who asserted that the Ministry is pleased with the partnership between the State Government and FOLUR-NG and the support provided by FAO GEF 7 which has enabled stakeholders the needed capacity's through regular training and expressed the belief that with the train the trainers workshop for farmers and extension agents there will be improved results during harvest.

He used the occasion to thank the Governor,  His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for providing the needed environment for partners to perform their businesses without friction or conflicts, adding that the Ministry will continue to promote cordiality with partners.

Highlights of the event were goodwill messages from the Honourable Commissioner Ministry of International Donor Coordination, Elder Dr. Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata who took time to thank the Governor for providing purposeful leadership to the State, stating that the goodwill from the Governor has brought a lot of progress to the State in many areas, and that the train the trainers event was very timely.

Some of the topics presented were climate change and global warming, climate change impact on agriculture and food security. Basics of adaptation and mitigation in AFOLU sector against climate change. Others include climate smart cocoa and oil palm agroforestry system, achieving gender equality in climate change and agri-food system and gender, protection against sexual exploitation and abuse policy. 

Dignitaries in attendance were the national project coordinator FOLUR-NG Prof. Oladapo Akinyemi, the project chief technical advisor Prof. Adebayo Shittu and the State project Coordinator FOLUR-NG Mr Cletus Ogbidi while facilitators were drawn from Cocoa Research institute of Nigeria CRIN, Nigeria Forest Research NIFOR and from different Universities, farmers and community groups from the eight local Government of the State where the project is operating.

Gov Otu Rejigs Cabinet, Charges Exco to Raise Performance

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Tuesday, reshuffled his cabinet in a strategic move aimed at reinvigorating governance and positioning his administration for greater efficiency as it enters the electioneering phase. The decision, announced at an emergency meeting of the State Executive Council in Calabar, saw some commissioners redeployed to new ministries while others retained their portfolios in recognition of their outstanding performance. The Governor described the exercise as a deliberate recalibration of government machinery to consolidate the gains of his administration and accelerate the delivery of his People First agenda.

Addressing members of the Executive Council, Governor Otu emphasized that the reshuffle was neither punitive nor a reward system but a necessary leadership instrument designed to align talent with evolving governance priorities. "Government is a living institution; it must constantly adjust to new realities. This exercise is about injecting fresh energy, maximizing individual strengths, and ensuring that every member of this cabinet remains focused on the larger vision of transforming Cross River State. We have crossed the threshold of foundation-laying; this is the season of consolidation and accelerated delivery," the Governor declared.

The Governor reminded council members that with the administration approaching another electoral cycle, the expectations of citizens had become even higher, insisting that only measurable performance, innovation, and unwavering commitment to public service would define the legacy of his government. "Electioneering must never distract us from governance. The people will judge us, not by slogans, but by roads constructed, hospitals revitalized, schools improved, jobs created, and the quality of life we have enhanced. Every commissioner must see his or her ministry as a performance centre. There is absolutely no room for complacency," he charged.

Governor Otu further urged members to regard their new assignments as opportunities for renewed service rather than personal victories or setbacks, stressing that collective success remained the administration's ultimate objective. "There are no superior or inferior ministries. Every portfolio is strategic because every ministry touches the lives of our people. Whether you have been reassigned or retained, your mandate remains unchanged—to serve with integrity, discipline, creativity, and absolute loyalty to the people of Cross River State.

History will remember results, not titles," he stated.

The Governor also called for stronger collaboration across ministries, departments, and agencies, noting that the complexities of modern governance demanded teamwork rather than institutional rivalry. "This administration must continue to speak with one voice and work with one purpose. Let us eliminate bureaucratic silos, deepen inter-ministerial cooperation, and pursue every policy with urgency and accountability. The confidence of our people is our greatest political capital, and we must justify it every single day through visible, impactful governance," he said.

Members of the Executive Council welcomed the Governor's decision, describing the reshuffle as timely and reflective of his determination to strengthen governance ahead of the next phase of the administration. The renewed cabinet configuration is expected to inject fresh momentum into policy implementation, reinforce institutional efficiency, and sharpen the government's development agenda, as Governor Otu reaffirmed his commitment to building "a stronger, more prosperous, and more united Cross River where performance remains the only enduring currency of public service.

Of New Aircraft, Highway Repairs and Gov. Otu’s Drive To Tackle C’River’s Transport Woes

By Inyali Peter 

The challenge of accessing Calabar, the capital city of Cross River, either by air, road, or sea, has been a recurring theme in many agitations in the State. The difficulties of traveling to and from Calabar have become a nightmare, with limited flight options, impassable roads, and security concerns on waterways, creating huge concerns for residents and visitors alike.

Frustrated with a long trip to Calabar after flying to Uyo, I published an article on the 14th of June, 2025 calling on the state government to either fast track the establishment of the proposed state owned airline, CallyAir or engage existing airlines to increase their flight schedules to Calabar to alleviate the stress and exploitation faced by passengers, who endure high costs and limited options on this route. 

Previously, I’ve also written articles urging governments to consider fixing failed highways in the state rather than waiting for the federal government as there is no federal citizen. 

Interestingly, while it is encouraging to note that Ibom Air, an airline owned by neighbouring Akwa Ibom State, has recently increased its flight frequency to Calabar to once daily, it is even better to see that Cross River is not only working hard to join the aviation revolution going on in the country with plan to launch its own airline but is addressing the persistent transport woes facing the state with a more holistic approach. 

It was just recently that news broke out that the Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu had approved the reconstruction of the failed Awi-Uyanga-Ikom corridor of the Calabar-Ikom-Ogoja federal highway. And yesterday, it was reported that the state took delivery of the widely anticipated two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft, with more expected in the coming days. This has brought the state’s fleet to four, including two Boeing 747 purchased by the previous administration under Governor Ben Ayade. 

According to government sources, Aero Contractors will continue to operate the Boeing 747, while ValueJet will manage the new Bombardier CRJ1000s until Cross River secures its Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Once obtained, the AOC will enable the state to launch CallyAir as an independent airline, a monumental achievement for the Otu administration that deserves resounding commendation. 

During a recent interview with Kelvo Podcast in Abuja, I noted  my admiration for this administration’s deliberate focus on development without playing politics with projects. Otu’s focus in security and infrastructure is gradually restoring Cross River’s reputation as a safe haven and a prime destination for tourists, reminiscent of its status as Nigeria’s “Camp David” years ago. With Otu, government has indeed, been a continuum.

Getting CallyAir away from billboards, social media and pages of newspapers to fly as independent airline would mean a lot more than just addressing flight crisis in the state. Akwa Ibom’s success with Ibom Air, which reported a N29 billion profit in its latest financial statement, demonstrates the lucrative potential of a well managed airline. For Cross River, a viable airline  would not only address access issues but would create jobs, boost tourism, and enhance the state’s IGR hugely. 

With limited flights to Calabar, many passengers are forced to fly to Uyo, and then connect to Calabar by road or sea at an additional cost of over N35,000. This arrangement diverts revenue, including VAT and other taxes, to Akwa Ibom, depriving Cross River of funds that should rightfully contribute to its economy. 

However, with the acquisition of the new Bombardier aircraft, the state now meets the fleet requirements for an AOC. And I’ve no doubt that in the coming days, the state will secure approval to commence independent operation of CallyAir. 

The Otu’s administration has shown great commitment to boosting economic prospects through infrastructural development and for this, deserves the full support and commendation of Cross Riverians.

MIDC Opens New Page in Donor Coordination, Train Donor-Desk Officers across the 18 LGAs

Iloke Egbe 

The need to showcase the massive achievements of the people oriented administration of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of the State through projects executed in the 196 political wards by development partners has brought a new dimension in the coordinator of Donor partners activities to ensure results based reporting through the newly accredited Donor Desk Officers.

This has become more important as it appears the achievements recorded by Donor partners in different locations across the State are under reported, therefore appointment and training of Donor project Desk Officers is part of the strategies adopted to achieve the mandate of the Ministry's coordination strides.

Declaring the event open at the Calabar Municipal Council Hall, the mayor of Calabar Apostle Hon. James Anam represented by the Council Secretary Comr. Iso Bassey Edim who affirmed that the move is to enhance effective monitoring of donor projects in different parts of each Local Government and charge participants to take the assignment very serious as the are now the eyes of MIDC in their various LGA. 

He pledged the readiness of the Council administration to support the initiatives since it's for the benefit of the State. 

In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry Elder Dr. Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata reiterated the need for the appointed desk officers to take the opportunity very seriously as the initiative is new in the State and aimed at getting first hand information the independent of Donor management for comparison and if effectively carryout would promote effective and efficient programme execution according to specifications. 

The training of newly appointed Donor project Desk officers for the 18 LGAs in the State is segmented according to Senatorial Districts with South which comprises Akpabuyo, Akamkpa, Bakassi, Biase, Calabar Municipal and Calabar South including Odukpani LGAs respectively. The training is billed to cover central Senatorial Districts with venues at Ikom Council Hall and Northern Senatorial Districts with the venue at Ogoja Local Government Council Secretariat Complex.

Some of the topics presented were Workshop overview and objectives, the role of Desk Officers in Donor Coordination, monitoring and evaluation of donor-assisted projects. Others include evidence-based report writing and Data capturing and reporting. The event was well attended by the officers concerned.