Security: Gov. Otu’s Most Underrated Achievement

Dr. Inyali Peter 

The most underrated measure of effective governance is peace. Governor Bassey Otu’s administration in Cross River State has achieved something worthy noting in the security sector. The administration has restored security and tranquility across the state but this achievement remains frustratingly underrated and constantly overshadowed by discussions of other development initiatives when people assess his tenure.

Before Otu assumed office, the State’s historic reputation for peace had shattered. Kidnappings terrorized major routes like the Calabar-Ikom highway, Itu-Akwa Ibom corridor, Akpabuyo region, UNICAL, Author Jarvis University, etc. The serene Calabar waterways became danger zones. Communal clashes erupted between villages. Cult clashes were on rampage. Militia violence gripped Calabar South, Bakassi, Boki. The state was synonymous with insecurity.

In over three years at the helm, Governor Otu has dramatically altered this trajectory. Kidnappings have plummeted on previously dangerous corridors. Communal tensions have eased significantly. Cult and militia activities have been substantially reduced. The waterways are safer. These aren’t speculative claims but observable changes that have restored confidence among residents and investors alike.

Unfortunately, when people discuss Otu’s administration’s achievements or asked what he has done, security rarely enters the conversation. It’s shocking how quickly transformative results become invisible in political discourse. This oversight is unfair and inappropriate because no achievement matters more to citizens than their ability to live safely.

Nevertheless, no society is completely crime-free; pockets of isolated incidents will inevitably occur. But the overall current reality is that Calabar, and indeed Cross River State have regained the status of one of  Nigeria’s safest cities and states. Governor Otu deserves is flowers for returning peace where chaos once reigned, for restoring the most valuable commodity any government can offer; security.

You are Contributing to Make our Cross River a Better Place State - Commissioner MIDC

Iloke Egbe 

As part of the objectives of coordinating Development Partners in the State which are to ensure the reduction in duplication of interventions by Development Partners and to aligned implementation of programmes and projects with each projects annual operational plan in line with the State priorities to serves as roadmap. 

The reporting process also serves as a strong evidence of the project implemented according to the workplan which demonstrate compliance to sets objectives. Beyond reporting compliance, presenting your workplan and achievements before stakeholders in the forum also speaks to the level of Synergies with related partners.

The dynamics of the forum made it easy for gaps to be identified where it exists and the right approach adopted to advance quality service delivery. This are some of the characteristics of the development partners forum.

The event held at FAO office, opposite Navy Field, State housing estate Calabar had 36 Development Partners operating in the State in attendance.

In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of International Donor Coordination Elder Dr Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata reiterated the importance the State Government under the leadership of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu emplace on development partners. He reminded partners that they are contributing to make Cross River State a better place therefore, there is need for more Synergies amongst development partners.

On his part, the alternate chairman and program Analyst UNFPA Dr. Shola Toye pointed out that contritions made by partners through technical assistance, financial resources, knowledge, innovation and programme implementation continues to complement Government efforts towards improving lives and well-being of our people.

Soliciting that presentations made should provide an opportunity to better understand what is achieved, the challenges being encountered and where collective actions may be required.

In his words, Mr. Toye said "as development partners, our effectiveness depends not only on the resources we mobilize, but also coordination, transparency, accountability, evidence based decision making and alignment with priorities of the State Government" he further encouraged all partners to use the forum to openly share lessons, identify areas of convergence, minimize duplications and explore opportunities for joint planning and resource mobilization and expressed his appreciation to MIDC and the Governor for providing credible leadership to partners.

In her contributions, the State Nutrition Officr Mrs. Nkem Eyong Ubana informed that Cross River State is set to launch food bank program and the State is first in the South South region of the country courtesy of His Excellency the Governor support. While the State Director of project REDD Dr. Donatus A. Adie appealed to partners to get them involved as some of their interventions helps in the reduction of Green House gases but are not well reported.

Highlights of the event were presentation of up to date project report by United Nations population fund

SUBEB Permanent Secretary Bow out of Service with Thanksgiving Mass

Iloke Egbe 

The Permanent Secretary Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board SUBEB Mr. Inyang Eyo Etta has bowed out of the State Civil Service after spending over thirty four active years with a thanksgiving mass held at St Anthony Catholic Church, Basin Satellite Town, Ikot Enebong 8 miles Calabar.

Advancing the essence of the Thanksgiving Mr Inyang Eyo Etta asserted that God has been very kind to him in the course of his career in the service which saw him ascending to different levels gracefully and hold vital positions of responsibilities successfully.

Reflecting on his humble beginnings and his journey in the service, Mr Etta admitted that he is retiring at the peak of the service cadre as Permanent Secretary and expressed his deepest appreciation to God Almighty who used the Governor His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu as His instrument to uplift him.

He took time to thank the Governor for his selfless service to Cross Riverians citing fundamental reforms carried out and the Governor's goodwill in advancing initiative aimed at stabilizing and repositioning the Civil service. He used the occasion to thank the Management and Staff of SUBEB for the cordiality during his days and his family members for the support and understanding.

In his words, on my retirement I feel fulfilled that I started a career and ended with flying colours and I give God the glory.

"the privilege granted me by His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu to serve as the Acting Chairman of Cross River SUBEB which really exposed me nationally and internationally and even within the State,  it was an elevation beyond my imagination. I was equally appointed Board Secretary and Permanent Secretary a rare opportunity for a single person. I am eternally grateful to his Excellency"

In an interview with the Officiating priest of St Anthony Catholic Church, Padua quasi parish, Ikot Enebong 8 Miles Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Bassey stated that the initiative to thank God is an indication that he appreciates what God has done for him, that it also shows the connection between him and God. According to Rev Bassey, God will never abandon him because he is a good mixer that knows his boundary.

While the Director General,  Cross River Signage and Advertisements Agency CRISSA, Mr Ubong Sam described the celebrant as a devoured Christian who believes solely in God as symbolized in the return of the glory to God with a thanksgiving mass. He used the occasion to wish Mr Etta well in his future endeavors.

Adding her voice Mrs. Lawretta Anake, described Mr Etta as a humble gentleman, that his retirement will not deter him from the good works he is known for. On his part, a retired Director of administration from the Ministry of Information chief Thomas Atem stated that Mr Etta is not arrogant and his humility brought him to the level of permanent secretary, adding that Mr Etta is a humanitarian though quite, he is very hospitable.

Also Mr Simon Ntol, a parishioner asserted that Mr Etta hittarto is a good man, very accessible and helpful. That he demonstrates gentleness and God fearing.

While a retired Permanent Secretary in the State Mr. Chris Anake admitted that Mr Etta is a very committed human being in all his endeavors despite his simple and unassuming disposition. He affirmed that Mr Etta will not have issues and wished him well in good health. While the church public relations officer Mr Mgbado Chris described the celebrant as a very humble and active person who relates with people freely and appealed that Mr Etta should still make himself available to the Government.

Highlights of the event were prayers for the retired Permanent Secretary and family, thanksgiving offerings, dance and praise session and a retirement luncheon at the residence of Mr. Etta. Dignitaries in attendance were the Head of Service Mr. Bassey Orok Okon, the Executive Chairman of SUBEB Board, Fidelia Okpo Ene (Esq) in the company of all the Board members. Permanent Secretaries both retired and serving, friends, family members, parishioners and other well wishers.

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.