http://www.crossriverstate.gov.ng/

Government House Press Calabar, Calabar (2025)

21/09/2025

Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, left, in a handshake with the President and Chief Executive Officer of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, at the just concluded Intra-African Trade Fairs in Algiers, Algeria

21/09/2025

Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, left, in a handshake with the President and Chief Executive Officer of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, at the just concluded Intra-African Trade Fairs in Algiers, Algeria

21/09/2025

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, in Abuja, following the demise of his beloved mother.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Otu described the late matriarch as “a woman of great virtue, who not only nurtured a family of honour but also left behind enduring legacies of faith, service, and love.” He added that the National Chairman’s strength and character were a reflection of his mother’s upright upbringing.

21/09/2025

Gov Otu condoles APC National Chairman over mother’s death

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, in Abuja, following the demise of his beloved mother.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Otu described the late matriarch as “a woman of great virtue, who not only nurtured a family of honour but also left behind enduring legacies of faith, service, and love.” He added that the National Chairman’s strength and character were a reflection of his mother’s upright upbringing.

“On behalf of the government and people of Cross River State, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. Though her departure is painful, we take solace in the fact that she lived a fulfilled life, leaving behind children and grandchildren who are making meaningful contributions to the nation,” the Governor said.

Governor Otu prayed for the peaceful repose of the late matriarch’s soul and urged Prof. Nentawe to find comfort in the outpouring of love and solidarity from across the country. He further assured the APC Chairman of his continued prayers and support during this difficult moment.

Governor Bassey Otu Prof Nentawe Yilwatda Government House Press Calabar

18/09/2025

Gov Otu Unveils Steps to End Communal Strife between Ikom, Obubra communities

In a bold move aimed at restoring peace, the Cross River State Government has unveiled decisive measures to bring a permanent end to the age-long dispute between the Alesi/Ekukunela/Agbaragba and Ochon/Isabang/Odonget communities in Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas.

These measures are coming after weeks of painstaking deliberation including stakeholder engagements spearheaded by the State Security Adviser, following which government has resolved to break the cycle of violence, restore harmony, and preserve the sanctity of lives and property.

Reaffirming government’s commitment to bringing about lasting peace, Cross River State Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Odey highlighted the measures to include the deployment of security operatives to enforce calm, and the vesting of ownership rights of the disputed land in the State Government.

According to Odey “by this singular act, the root of contention is extinguished, transforming the territory into a protected heritage under state custody.”

The Deputy Governor also emphasized that peace, safety, and collective wellbeing remain sacrosanct, insisting that “elders, youths, and community leaders are enjoined to embrace reconciliation, cooperate with security agencies, and desist from hostility,” noting, however, that “only through unity can progress and stability take firm root across our beloved State.”

Signed:
Linus Obogo
Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Edet Otu on Media and Publicity

17/09/2025

New HoS Appointed by Governor Bassey Otu
Congratulations...

10/09/2025

Clarification on Needless Mischief Over Ex-Gov Kwankwaso’s Visit to Calabar

It has become necessary to address, in the strongest and clearest of terms, the needless hysteria, the idle conjectures, and the mischievous insinuations trailing the recent visit of former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to Cross River State. That visit, made on September 9, 2025, was no more than an investment reconnaissance by a prominent Nigerian who, like many others before him, has seen in our rich agrarian soil and vast natural endowments, a fertile ground for enterprise and growth.

To attempt, therefore, to clothe such a straightforward mission with the robes of political conspiracy is not only irresponsible but also an insult to the intelligence of discerning Cross Riverians. The notion that Governor Bassey Edet Otu, a man whose political convictions are as clear as daylight and whose fidelity to his mandate is beyond reproach, is “romancing” the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on account of this harmless visit, is as laughable as it is idiotic. It is the product of idle, demented minds and mischievous tongues, no less than flies buzzing around the banquet of progress, desperate to contaminate what they cannot create.

Governor Otu is, at this moment, in Algiers where he is leading Cross River State to global platforms, engaging the 5th Afreximbank Sub-Sovereign Business Forum to attract meaningful investment into our state. In his absence, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, did the most honorable and courteous thing—receiving Senator Kwankwaso, as has been done with other distinguished Nigerians, who have similarly visited the state. These courtesies are not about political parties, they are about respect, hospitality, and the pursuit of development.

It must therefore be said without equivocation that Cross River State under Governor Otu remains open to all investors, irrespective of political coloration or geographic origin. To read partisanship into such an open-handed visitation is to demean the state’s dignity and to betray a warped understanding of governance. Mischief-makers who peddle these insinuations are no more than merchants of confusion, merely stirring muddy waters in the hope of feigning depth.

We deprecate in the strongest terms this brazen mischief, this attempt to sow seeds of discord, to distract from the noble vision of the “People First” administration, and to cast shadows where only light shines. The public is urged to dismiss such insinuations with the contempt they deserve. Governor Otu’s focus is firm: to build a prosperous Cross River State, not to indulge in the empty chatter of political jesters.

Singed:

Linus Obogo
Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Media and Publicity.

Governor Bassey Otu Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso

08/09/2025

Cross River Secures Host Rights for Intra-African Trade Fair 2026

Cross River State has secured the hosting rights for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2026, positioning Calabar as the next continental hub for trade, culture, and investment. The announcement was formalized in Algiers, Algeria, where Governor Bassey Edet Otu signed the host rights during the 5th Sub-Sovereign Business Engagement on the sidelines of IATF 2025.

Governor Otu described the development as a milestone not only for Cross River but for Nigeria and Africa at large. “This is a profound honour for our state and a defining moment for Africa’s sub-sovereign governments,” he said. “Cross River is ready to lead Africa into a new era of trade and cooperation, where our local power fuels global impact.”

The governor stressed that the 2026 edition in Calabar would reflect the best of Africa’s ingenuity, heritage, and innovation. “We are prepared to host the world,” he declared. “In Calabar, you will encounter a city that is second to none in hospitality, culture, and tourism. We will deliver a trade fair that Africa will never forget, because it will showcase who we are and what we can achieve together.”

Otu also praised the vision of Afrexim Bank in supporting intra-African trade and particularly the creative industries, which he called “Africa’s new goldmine.” According to him, “Afrexim has shown tremendous leadership in standing behind Africa’s creative sector. They understand that our music, our film, our art, and our stories are not just cultural treasures, but economic powerhouses that can compete anywhere in the world.”

Highlighting the role of sub-sovereign governments, the governor urged regional leaders to embrace their responsibility in Africa’s growth. “The way forward is for governors and sub-national entities to be the transformers and architects of Africa’s future,” he said. “It is at this level that real impact is felt, and it is at this level that we can unlock the full promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area.”

08/09/2025

Cross River Secures Host Rights for Intra-African Trade Fair 2026

Cross River State has secured the hosting rights for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2026, positioning Calabar as the next continental hub for trade, culture, and investment. The announcement was formalized in Algiers, Algeria, where Governor Bassey Edet Otu signed the host rights during the 5th Sub-Sovereign Business Engagement on the sidelines of IATF 2025.

Governor Otu described the development as a milestone not only for Cross River but for Nigeria and Africa at large. “This is a profound honour for our state and a defining moment for Africa’s sub-sovereign governments,” he said. “Cross River is ready to lead Africa into a new era of trade and cooperation, where our local power fuels global impact.”

The governor stressed that the 2026 edition in Calabar would reflect the best of Africa’s ingenuity, heritage, and innovation. “We are prepared to host the world,” he declared. “In Calabar, you will encounter a city that is second to none in hospitality, culture, and tourism. We will deliver a trade fair that Africa will never forget, because it will showcase who we are and what we can achieve together.”

Otu also praised the vision of Afrexim Bank in supporting intra-African trade and particularly the creative industries, which he called “Africa’s new goldmine.” According to him, “Afrexim has shown tremendous leadership in standing behind Africa’s creative sector. They understand that our music, our film, our art, and our stories are not just cultural treasures, but economic powerhouses that can compete anywhere in the world.”

Highlighting the role of sub-sovereign governments, the governor urged regional leaders to embrace their responsibility in Africa’s growth. “The way forward is for governors and sub-national entities to be the transformers and architects of Africa’s future,” he said. “It is at this level that real impact is felt, and it is at this level that we can unlock the full promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area.”

He assured that Cross River State would rise to the challenge of hosting a continental fair of such magnitude. “We will prepare infrastructure, mobilize our private sector, and harness our people’s energy to ensure a successful hosting,” Otu stated. “Calabar will be ready — and we will exceed expectations.”

Analysts have already described the hosting rights as a diplomatic and economic coup for Cross River State, with projections of billions in trade volumes, massive job creation, and renewed investor confidence. Observers in Algiers noted that Calabar’s selection reflected its historic role as a hub of commerce and its reputation for world-class hospitality.

Governor Otu concluded with a call for unity across Africa. “This is bigger than Cross River,” he affirmed. “This is about Africa telling its story, trading with itself, and building prosperity from within. The world is coming to Calabar in 2026, and we are ready to welcome them with open arms.”

06/09/2025

Photo Speak: Courtesy visit by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to Cross River State Governor. Prince Bassey Otu at the Governor’s Office, Calabar.

03/09/2025

Gov Otu Strengthens Nursing colleges with New 32-Seater Buses

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State yesterday presented 32-seater buses, one each, to the Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery Sciences in Itigidi, Calabar, and Ogoja, a move he described as part of his administration’s investment in preventive health and training of the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The presentation, which took place at the Governor’s Office, Calabar, further underscored Otu’s transformative “People First” agenda in the health sector.

Governor Otu noted that preventive health is central to reducing the high cost of medical care and sustaining wellness among the population. “We discovered that the only way to cut costs is to make sure our people stay healthy. Prevention is cheaper than cure, and we are committed to strengthening that approach,” he said.

The governor also disclosed plans to establish a “medical village” in one of the northern senatorial district hospitals, designed to improve access to quality care while serving as a training hub for nurses and doctors. He emphasized that training and retraining of health professionals remain key priorities to ensure continuity of service.

Otu further revealed that the State Health Insurance Scheme would continue to receive boost, making healthcare more affordable and reducing the burden of out-of-pocket spending.

Receiving the buses on behalf of the institutions, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, described the donation as “empirical evidence” of the administration’s commitment to health sector reforms.

“Just few years ago, we had only one accredited training institution, the College of Nursing at Itigidi. Today, by the governor’s vision and support, we now have four functional and accredited colleges across the state. This is not because there was excess money, but because the governor challenged us to prove to the world what can be achieved with the little we have,” Ayuk said.

He explained that nursing and midwifery students conduct about 80% of their clinical training outside the classroom, making mobility critical. “It is not just about buses, it is about ensuring that our students can move from one location to another for their practical work. These vehicles will serve that essential need,” the Commissioner noted.

Ayuk expressed gratitude on behalf of the colleges, assuring that the buses would be used strictly for the purposes they were provided. He also appealed to the governor to extend similar support to the College of Nursing in Obudu.

02/09/2025

Governor Otu Felicitates Vice President Shettima on His 59th Birthday

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has congratulated the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on the occasion of his 59th birthday, describing him as “a statesman of towering intellect, rare humility, and unflinching devotion to Nigeria’s progress.”

In a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Mr Linus Obogo, Governor Otu said the Vice President’s life and service represent “a shining example of courage, vision, and selfless leadership that continues to inspire confidence in the nation’s collective journey towards renewal.”

“On behalf of the Government and people of Cross River State, I most joyfully felicitate our distinguished Vice President on this momentous day,” Otu declared. “We celebrate not only the gift of life but the enduring virtues of courage, compassion, and patriotic service which His Excellency embodies in generous measure.”

The Governor noted that Senator Shettima’s political career has been marked by a rare blend of brilliance and pragmatism, underscoring his capacity to stand tall in moments of national challenge. According to him, “the Vice President’s steadfast partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda has already begun to yield fruits of optimism for the Nigerian people.”

Governor Otu extolled Shettima as a “leader who carries the weight of responsibility with dignity and grace, offering Nigeria the assurance that the future, though demanding, can be met with resilience and hope.”

“As you mark this milestone, my prayer is that divine grace will continue to strengthen you, guide your steps, and grant you the fulfillment of every noble aspiration,” Otu continued. “May this new chapter of your life be adorned with health, joy, and uncommon accomplishments.”

The Governor further affirmed that the people of Cross River State join the rest of the nation in celebrating the Vice President, noting that “his life of purpose and integrity remains a testimony of leadership anchored on service rather than self.”

Governor Otu assured Shettima of the unwavering goodwill and prayers of the state, saying, “We stand with you in solidarity, wishing you long life, wisdom, and greater heights in the sacred duty of nation-building.”

Kashim Shettima Governor Bassey Otu

Government House Press Calabar

21/09/2025

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