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

Government House Press Calabar, Calabar (2026)

11/08/2026

Gov Otu Orders Immediate Halt to Clan, Village Creation Exercise

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has ordered the immediate termination of the ongoing Clan and Village Creation exercise, declaring that the process was neither authorised nor approved by his administration and therefore lacked the imprimatur of the State Government.

The directive, conveyed by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, stated that the Governor’s attention had been drawn to the exercise being undertaken by the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs.

According to the directive, “the said Clan and Village Creation exercise was neither authorised nor approved by his office,” stressing that it “does not carry the imprimatur of the State Government, and cannot be allowed to continue or to be given any further effect.”

The State Government’s position, the directive explained, was further informed by a pending legal action before the High Court of Cross River State, Calabar.
“In view of the foregoing, His Excellency has directed that all activities connected with the ongoing Clan and Village Creation exercise, including the processing, verification or publication of any Clan or Village Creation List, be terminated forthwith,” the Attorney-General stated. He added that “no further steps be taken by your office or any officer under your supervision towards the creation, recognition or conferment of Clan or Village status on any community pending further directive from the Government.”

The directive further reiterated that the governor’s approval remained a mandatory prerequisite for any such exercise in the state, warning that “no Clan or Village Creation exercise may be embarked upon by your office, or any officer under its supervision, without the prior approval of His Excellency the Governor.”

The termination of the purported Clan and Village Creation exercise underscores Governor Otu's determination to ensure that processes affecting the recognition and administrative status of communities are undertaken within the framework of lawful governmental authority.

The Attorney-General therefore enjoined the Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs to treat the Governor’s directive with “the seriousness it deserves” and ensure “strict and immediate compliance.”

Governor Bassey Otu Cross River State Cross River Live

06/08/2026

Gov Otu Approves ₦1.5bn Youth Empowerment Scheme

Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu has approved the release of ₦1.499 billion for the implementation of the Cross River Youth Skill Acquisition and Start-up Empowerment Programme, a landmark initiative aimed at equipping 2,620 young people across the state with vocational, technical and digital skills as well as business start-up equipment.

The approval was granted at the State Executive Council meeting as part of the administration's commitment to accelerating youth employment, enterprise development and inclusive economic growth.

Speaking shortly after the Exco approval, Governor Otu described the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of Cross River, stressing that the programme goes beyond skills training to creating a new generation of entrepreneurs and wealth creators. "This administration is determined to build a self-reliant and industrious youth population. We are not merely training our young people; we are empowering them with the tools and resources they need to become employers of labour and active contributors to the state's economy," the Governor said.

According to the Otu, the beneficiaries will receive practical training in market-driven vocational and digital skills before being provided with start-up kits to ensure they can immediately establish viable businesses. "Our vision is to eliminate the gap between training and opportunity. Every beneficiary will leave this programme not just with knowledge but with the equipment required to translate that knowledge into sustainable income and prosperity," he stated.

The governor noted that the programme's procurement package reflects the administration's deliberate focus on supporting diverse sectors of the economy. He explained that the approved items include industrial sewing machines, laptops, cassava processing equipment, motorcycles, solar-powered freezers, washing machines, hand tillers, grain threshers, cake mixers, plantain slicers, solar-powered clippers, manual water pumps and other specialised equipment that will enable beneficiaries to establish thriving businesses across agriculture, ICT, fashion, food processing and allied enterprises.
"This intervention is not a procurement exercise; it is a deliberate economic transformation programme," the Governor emphasized. "By placing productive assets directly in the hands of our young people, we are creating thousands of new opportunities for enterprise, innovation and community development. This is how sustainable prosperity is built."

Otu further said the initiative is expected to significantly reduce youth unemployment, restiveness and social vulnerability while strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as critical drivers of economic expansion. "Our administration remains convinced that empowering our youths is the surest pathway to lasting peace, security and shared prosperity. Every empowered young entrepreneur becomes a catalyst for economic growth and a beacon of hope within his or her community," he remarked.

He reaffirmed that youth development remains a central pillar of his administration's People First agenda, adding that the government will continue to invest in programmes that expand opportunities for employment, innovation and wealth creation. "Cross River's greatest resource is not beneath the ground but in the talent, creativity and resilience of its people. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for our youths to unlock their full potential and compete successfully in today's economy," he said.

The ₦1,499,400,000 programme, which will directly benefit 2,620 Cross River youths, is expected to stimulate private sector participation, deepen entrepreneurship, expand the state's MSME ecosystem and accelerate sustainable wealth creation across critical sectors. The approval underscores Governor Otu's determination to build an economically vibrant state where young people are equipped with the skills, tools and opportunities needed to drive inclusive development and long-term prosperity.

05/08/2026

Cross River to Partner FG for Livestock Production

Cross River State is set for a major boost in agriculture and export trade after Governor Bassey Edet Otu hosted the Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Muktar Maha, for the commissioning of Nigeria’s first Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility in Mfum, Ikom.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Otu represented by the Deputy Gov Rt. Hon. Peter Odey said the state was ready to partner with the Federal Ministry to turn Cross River into a livestock and export hub for Nigeria and West Africa.

“We are happy to have you back. When you were here last, you promised to return and visit the ranch. I’m happy you’ve come, and in the next two hours I’ll be meeting investors who want to invest in the ranch,” the Governor said.

“We are making the ranch a five-star resort where visitors from all over the world will be happy to visit. This weekend I’ll be on the ranch as well.”

Gov. Otu announced that the cargo airport close to Obudu Ranch is 85% completed, with the first aircraft expected to land in December 2026.

He added that the state plans to commence regular flights in the first quarter of next year from Abuja to Bukalo Airport and from Lagos to the Obudu International Passengers and Cargo Airport.

“For farmers like who want to invest in livestock, it will be easier to export our livestock from Obudu Ranch to anywhere in the world,” he said.

The Governor also linked the project to Cross River’s broader trade corridor. He noted that the state provides an evacuation route to the Gulf of Guinea, just two hours away, accessible through the Calabar International Airport. State-owned Cally Air is expected to begin regular flights to the Gulf soon to expand both business and tourism.

Gov. Otu assured the ministry of full state cooperation, including stakeholder engagement with poultry and livestock farmers across Cross River.

Earlier, Maha said the Mfum facility is critical to protecting Nigeria’s economy by ensuring only healthy livestock cross the borders from the Sahel and neighboring countries.

“This is the first of its kind that we are building in the country. We are proud that Cross River is the first state where this is being formally commissioned,” the minister said.

"Tomorrow we will commission this facility. It is one out of 12 spread across Nigeria’s international borders, from here up to other corridors. Each corridor will receive a large number of animals, and we are going to protect you.”

The Minister said his visit would also include inspections of the Obudu Ranch and other livestock facilities in the state to assess progress and attract investors.

He outlined plans for a modern abattoir ecosystem in Cross River to reduce dependence on cattle trucked in from northern states. According to him, a 500-head-per-day abattoir could create up to 10,000 jobs across the value chain, including feed production, cold chain storage, and transportation.

“We believe Cross River is well positioned to dominate the red meat industry in the South-South. With Calabar’s access to the coast, we are just about 5 hours from Gulf markets. The value of Nigeria’s red meat export is estimated at $3.4 billion,” Maha said.

To stabilize supply, the ministry announced plans to import about 60 million hatchable eggs as a short-term measure and to license operators to reduce waiting times for farmers.

The minister also called for investment in fodder production such as Napier, alfalfa, and ryegrass, noting high demand in Gulf states. He said the Obudu facility would include units for goats, sheep, cattle, pigs, and a dairy center in partnership with the university.

“All we need is incentive to get it started here in Cross River. Our farmers are ready. The state government will provide an environment to ensure national pride in what we do here,” he said.

He added that the state’s goal is to make its livestock sector “one of the best in the world, not just in Nigeria.”

The minister’s visit comes as both the federal and state governments push to diversify agriculture, create jobs, and position Cross River as Nigeria’s gateway for livestock export through land, air, and sea.

The facility, described as the first of 12 planned along Nigeria’s international borders, will certify the health of animals entering the country and is expected to curb the spread of trans-boundary animal diseases.

31/07/2026

C'River set to Launch Smart Surveillance Infrastructure to Bolster Security, Climate Resilience

In a move aimed at strengthening public safety, entrench smart governance and build climate-resilient communities, the Cross River State Government has approved the procurement and deployment of Phase One of a state-wide Smart Surveillance Infrastructure Project.

The initiative, approved by the State Executive Council, also covers the procurement of cutting-edge surveillance equipment, underscoring the Governor Otu administration's resolve to leverage technology in safeguarding lives, protecting public assets and enhancing urban resilience.

The approval followed the consideration of a memorandum presented to the State Executive Council by the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr. B**g Duke.

According to Duke, the initiative is anchored on the Cross River State Resilience Agenda (2026–2030) and aligns with global efforts to build resilient, technology-driven cities capable of responding effectively to emerging environmental and security challenges. "The current analogue surveillance methodology is obsolete, covering less than ten per cent of Calabar metropolis and providing no surveillance coverage across other major urban centres, including Akamkpa, Ugep, Ikom, Ogoja and Obudu," he stated.

Duke disclosed that following extensive technical engagements with Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., including strategic meetings and an inspection of the company's facilities in China, the State Planning Commission successfully integrated Cross River's multi-sectoral surveillance requirements into a comprehensive technology solution. To be implemented through Huawei's local partner, Dubass Synergy Multi-Services Limited, the project will involve the design, supply, installation and commissioning of a modern surveillance network across strategic locations in the state. "This deployment represents a comprehensive technology-driven response to contemporary security and urban management challenges," Dr. Duke noted.

Huawei

30/07/2026

No Sub-National Can Develop in an atmosphere of Insecurity thus the need for a Security Summit.

Picture Story...

28/07/2026

C'River Exco Approves ₦525.3 Million Crop Research Institute to Boost Agric Innovation, Food Security

In a bid to boost food security, agricultural innovation and rural economic transformation, the Cross River State Executive Council, presided over by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, on Tuesday, July 28, approved the construction of a state-of-the-art Administrative and Laboratory Complex, complete with staff accommodation, for the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) Outstation at Mile 6, Obubra Local Government Area.

The State Executive Council described the initiative as a bold investment that will reposition Cross River as Nigeria's foremost hub for root and tuber research, seed technology and agribusiness development.

The approval followed the consideration of a memorandum presented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Ebokpo, who informed Council that the initiative is fully aligned with the resolutions of the 47th National Council on Agriculture and the Federal Government's strategic agenda for strengthening sub-national food security systems. He emphasized that the project seeks to deepen agricultural research, promote localized seed production and accelerate the deployment of climate-smart farming technologies across the state.
"This intervention is strategically designed to strengthen agricultural research, technology dissemination and localized seed production ecosystems in order to guarantee long-term food security and stimulate private-sector investment in agribusiness," the memorandum stated.

Council observed that Cross River's enormous comparative advantage in cassava, yam and sweet potato production places it in a unique position to become the nation's leading centre for root crop innovation. It noted that the Obubra-Ikom agricultural corridor possesses the ideal ecological conditions for varietal trials, certified seed multiplication and the rapid dissemination of improved technologies directly to farmers. "The Obubra-Ikom axis remains one of Nigeria's most productive agricultural belts and provides the perfect environment for scientific research, innovation and commercialization of improved root crop technologies," Council affirmed.

The Council further disclosed that the project would pave the way for the establishment of a cutting-edge seed production platform using Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH) technology through a strategic collaboration involving the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the National Root Crops Research Institute.

According to Council, strengthening the physical infrastructure of the NRCRI Outstation is indispensable to unlocking the enormous opportunities embedded in the partnership. "The modernized facility will serve as the critical foundation for producing certified disease-free planting materials, high-yield varieties and improved technologies capable of transforming agricultural productivity across Cross River State and beyond," the memorandum explained.

Reaffirming Governor Bassey Otu's vision of building a resilient, innovation-driven agricultural economy, Council described the project as far more than a physical infrastructure initiative. It said the complex would become an innovation ecosystem where scientific research meets enterprise, creating new opportunities for mechanization, value addition, input development and commercial agriculture.
"The facility will serve as a catalyst for private-sector investment, public-private partnerships and youth agripreneurship, while de-risking farming operations and positioning Cross River as one of Nigeria's most attractive destinations for agricultural investment," Council declared.

The Council equally noted that because the NRCRI is a Federal Government institution, the state's investment would strategically leverage substantial federal interventions and international donor support. It maintained that the project represents a prudent long-term investment capable of generating enduring economic dividends through improved food security, seed system independence, agricultural industrialization and enhanced internally generated revenue. "This strategic intervention places Cross River in an advantageous position to attract matching federal resources and global development partnerships, thereby multiplying the impact of the state's investment," Ebokpo noted.

The project, which encompasses site preparation, an administrative complex, modern laboratories, staff accommodation, utilities, fittings and all essential support infrastructure, is expected to commence immediately following the release of funds. The approval, the Council noted, reaffirmed Governor Otu's conviction that sustainable development begins with strategic investments in agriculture. "This administration remains resolute in building enduring institutions that will outlive the present generation, strengthen food sovereignty, empower farmers, attract investment and secure the future of Cross River State as Nigeria's agricultural powerhouse," Council declared.

27/07/2026

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."

26/07/2026

Our Waters Safe for Investment, Governor Bassey Otu Assures Maritime Investors

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to securing the state's waterways and creating an enabling environment for maritime investments.

Otu declared that Cross River's coastal corridor remains a safe and profitable destination for local and international investors. The Governor gave the assurance on Saturday during an inspection visit to the Calabar Marina Business Hub, where he toured the newly introduced MV-Eja, a ferry owned by SeaExpress, now operating on the Calabar-Cameroon commercial route.

Accompanied by the Commissioner for Transportation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham; the Special Adviser on Blue Economy, Ms. Melodie Lebo; and other maritime stakeholders, Governor Otu expressed delight at the scale and quality of the investment, describing it as a clear demonstration of growing investor confidence in Cross River State.
He noted that the state's strategic location and expanding blue economy present enormous opportunities for economic growth and regional trade.

Speaking during the tour, Governor Otu lauded the promoters of the project for choosing Cross River as their investment destination despite having opportunities elsewhere across the globe. He assured the management of SeaExpress Transit of the full support of his administration in safeguarding the investment and providing the necessary government backing to ensure its success.

"We are proud of this investment, coming down from the United States just to invest in your motherland," the Governor declared. "You could have chosen anywhere else, so on that note, we owe you all the necessary support as a people and as a government to ensure that this huge investment is not in vain. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive."
Addressing concerns over maritime safety, Governor Otu reiterated that the protection of lives, property and investments remains one of the cardinal responsibilities of government. He stressed that his administration has demonstrated an uncompromising stance against criminality through sustained investments in security architecture across the state.

"Security is the core responsibility of government," he stated. "This administration has zero tolerance for any form of criminality. That is why we have invested heavily in strengthening security across Cross River. You have our full backing, and I assure you that you will never regret investing in the maritime sector of our state."

The Governor further seized the opportunity to invite prospective investors to take advantage of the vast commercial opportunities embedded in Cross River's expansive waterways within the Gulf of Guinea, particularly the Calabar-Cameroon trading corridor. According to him, the state's blue economy remains one of the most promising frontiers for commerce, transportation, tourism and regional integration, with government fully committed to unlocking its immense potential.

Responding on behalf of SeaExpress Transit, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr. Thompson Eja, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Otu for personally visiting the facility and reassuring investors of government support. He commended the Governor's firm declaration of zero tolerance for insecurity, describing it as a confidence booster for businesses operating within the maritime sector.

"We are deeply encouraged by Your Excellency's visit and your unequivocal commitment to securing investments. We look forward to partnering closely with the Cross River State Government to enhance service delivery and further expand maritime transportation in the region," Eja said.

The visit climaxed with the presentation of a commemorative plaque of honour to Governor Otu by Dr. Eja in recognition of the Governor's support for the maritime industry and for boarding the MV-Eja. The symbolic gesture underscored the growing partnership between the Cross River State Government and private investors in advancing the state's vision of becoming Nigeria's leading hub for the blue economy and maritime commerce.

CAPTION:
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SeaExpress Limited, Dr. Thompson Eja, presenting a commemorative plague to His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, during the latter's inspection visit to the Calabar Marina Business Hub, at the weekend in Calabar.

25/07/2026

Governor Bassey Otu appoints Senior Special Adviser on Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Commissioner and DG Infrastructure. According to the release, the appointments will strengthen governance through competence.

24/07/2026

Governor Bassey Otu Reaffirms Commitment to People-First Governance Through Public Feedback

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed that public feedback remains an indispensable pillar of good governance, describing citizens’ participation as critical to building a responsive, accountable, and people-centred government.

The Governor’s position was conveyed on Friday by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who represented him at the Public Advocacy Summit themed, “The Role of the People in the People’s Government: Institutionalizing the Feedback Mechanism,” organised by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Content Development and Archiving.

Declaring the summit open at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, Odey said the People First administration recognises public feedback as a vital instrument for shaping government policies and programmes, stressing that governance is most effective when it reflects the aspirations and concerns of the people.

He noted that democracy extends beyond the electoral process, stressing that continuous engagement between government and citizens fosters trust, accountability, and inclusive development, while describing the People First mantra as a deliberate commitment to placing the welfare of Cross Riverians at the heart of governance.

He further emphasised that the voice of the people remains a key measure of purposeful leadership, noting that the administration consistently reviews its policies in response to citizens’ feedback. He therefore encouraged political office holders to sustain regular town hall meetings to remain connected to the needs and aspirations of the people.

Odey highlighted several government interventions informed by public feedback, including the establishment of the State Public Complainant Office, reforms in road traffic management, tax harmonisation, the reduction of traffic fines, and the introduction of free bus services during festive periods. He said the initiatives reflect the administration’s commitment to responsive governance and the institutionalisation of effective feedback mechanisms.

Odey urged citizens to engage government through lawful and constructive channels, assuring them that the Otu administration remains committed to strengthening citizens’ participation, deepening public trust, and advancing the People First philosophy.

In his keynote address, Col. Pam Ogar called for greater collaboration between government and citizens in strengthening participatory governance, urging stakeholders to embrace constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and solution-driven engagement. He cautioned against abusive and divisive public discourse, stressing that while constructive criticism is vital to democracy, it must be expressed responsibly and with the collective interest of Cross River State in mind. He encouraged citizens to offer practical solutions to societal challenges and work together to sustain the state’s development and People First vision.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Content Development and Archiving, Mrs. Beatrice Akpala, described the summit as a strategic platform for deepening democratic participation and strengthening collaboration between government and the people. She said the theme underscored the importance of institutionalising feedback mechanisms to ensure citizens remain active partners in governance and contributors to public policy.

Akpala commended Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s people-centred leadership, noting that the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, tourism, youth empowerment, and economic recovery are further strengthened through constructive public engagement. She urged participants to contribute meaningfully to the discussions and work collectively towards building a more prosperous, transparent, and inclusive Cross River State.

High point of the event was the official unveiling of the Content Development Magazine by the Deputy Governor, assisted by the representative of the Wife of the Governor, Dr. Comfort Oko, keynote speaker, Col. Pam Ogar, representative of the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, and other dignitaries. The summit also featured paper presentations by Senator Prof. Stephen Odey, Rt. Hon. John Lebo, Prof. Francisca Bassey, Dr. (Mrs.) Glory Tony Effiong, and Dr. B**g Duke.

Government House Press Calabar

11/08/2026

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05/08/2026

31/07/2026

30/07/2026

28/07/2026

27/07/2026

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