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

Government House Press Calabar, Calabar (2025)

28/07/2025

PRESS STATEMENT
RE: 76 OIL WELLS: RESTATEMENT OF FACTS
UPDATED VERSION

The attention of the Cross River State Government (CRSG) has been drawn to a Press Release issued by Uko Udom, SAN, the AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice of Akwa Ibom State on the 24th July, 2025 wherein several misrepresentations and outright falsehood were made against the Government and the good people of Cross River State. Given the sensitivity of the issue, the Cross River State Government would ordinarily not join in litigating this matter in the Court of Public Opinion, just as our sister State desires in the light of her various publications on the subject matter. Nevertheless, this time, it is important to clarify the misinformation peddled by the Akwa Ibom State Government on this issue.

2. It is correct that the Government of Cameroon filed a case at the international Court of Justice (ICJ) against Nigeria in 1994 claiming ownership of the Bakassi Peninsula in Cross River State. The ICJ delivered its Judgment in 2002 ceding the Southern portion of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon leaving out Western Bakassi in Nigeria in the Judgment . The clear implication of that judgment is that Western Bakassi remains in Cross River State and in Nigeria.

3. It must be noted that the judgment of the International Court of Justice was implemented by the Signing of the Green Tree Agreement in 2008 where Nigeria and Cameroon ,with the help of the United Nations, set up the structures for the handover of Southern Bakassi Peninsular to Cameroon and initiated the Joint Boundary Demarcation Committee known as the Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission with the mandate of mapping out the land and maritime boundary between Nigeria and Cameroon.

4. While the Committee was yet to commence its work of mapping out the actual boundary line of the territories belonging to Nigeria and Cameroon over Bakassi and Lake Chad, the National Boundary Commission and the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission held a retreat in Kano in August 2008 and applied what they called the “Technical Option” as against the “Historic Title Option” earlier used in demarcating the boundary between Cross River and Akwa Ibom States and awarded the 76 oil wells located in western Bakassi to Akwa Ibom State. Let it also be noted that Akwa Ibom State in their petition to the National Boundary Commission had prayed for the application of the Historic Title Option in the resolution of her boundary dispute with Rivers State as was the case with her boundary with Cross River State.

5. It is worthy of note also that while Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Bayelsa States were invited to the retreat held in Kano, Cross River State was not invited because it had no boundary dispute with Akwa Ibom prior to August, 2008.

6. Notwithstanding the several judgments of the Supreme Court referred to in the Press Release under reference, in March, 2024, the attention of His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State was drawn to the fact that several oil wells, in OML 114 and 123 Oil fields, were indeed within the Cross River State's maritime boundary and for which it derived no revenue whatsoever. As a responsible leader, His Excellency, Governor Otu engaged the relevant authority, namely the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission on this revelation.
7. Upon receipt of Cross River State's Complaint, an inter-Agency Committee, Comprising of the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation, National Boundary Commission, Nigeria Upstream
Regulatory Commission was constituted with Surveyors- General of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra , Cross River and other oil producing States as observers to determine the veracity of the Cross River State's Claim.

8. In May, 2024 , the Committee carried out its mandate by plotting the
Maritime boundary of Cross River State using the Nation's Administrative Map 11th edition, as well as the 2004 well dichotomy Study Map and thereafter geolocated the oil wells found therein. At the end of the exercise, sixty-seven (67) oil wells were found to be within the Maritime Boundary of Cross River State. It is this uncomfortable truth, that our sister State (Akwa Ibom) seeks to suppress as it lays bare the injustice Cross River State has had to suffer since the decision of the Supreme Court delivered in 2012, which Akwa Ibom State Government now hides behind.

9. The Presidency has waded into the matter as it should rightly do and has directed both States to consult widely, hold stakeholder's engagements and report back. By the posturing of the Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State and the contents of his Press Release, it is abundantly clear that Akwa Ibom State has no interest in the process outlined by the Presidency. On the other hand, Cross River State, standing on the biblical injunction that truth crushed to the ground shall surely rise again, remains committed to unearthing the truth and correcting the grave injustice done to her.

10. This Press Statement shall serve as the ONLY RESPONSE on this issue by Cross River State.

Erasmus Ekpang Ph.D.,anipr,ftifuh Commissioner for Information. 28th July, 2025

25/07/2025

Otu Bolsters Aviation Sector, Tourism, with Acquisition of Two New Aircraft

In a bold step toward repositioning Cross River State as a premier destination in Nigeria’s tourism and investment map, Governor Bassey Edet Otu Thursday, took delivery of two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft, a regional jet, designed to carry up to 100 passengers. The acquisition of the new aircraft reaffirms the governor’s administration’s commitment to revitalizing the state’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing socioeconomic mobility.

The historic reception ceremony took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where Governor Otu, flanked by his wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu; former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke; and other dignitaries, described the acquisition as “a long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation for our dear state.”

The official commissioning of the new aircraft by the Ministry of Aviation is scheduled for August 12, 2025. With the new aircraft, Governor Otu said, the state is not only addressing the perennial frustration of flight delays and cancellations experienced by travelers to and from Calabar, but also laying a strong foundation for Cross River’s aviation renaissance. “For too long,” he said, “our people and visitors alike have endured the hardship of air travel disruptions. Today marks the beginning of the end of that era.”

The new acquisition, according to the Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Imah Eno Utum, has brought to four the number of aircraft owned by the state government. While the two aircraft, Boeing 747 earlier acquired by the immediate past government of Senator Ben Ayade are being operated by Aero Contractors, the newly procured Bombardier CRJ1000 would be operated by Valuejet Airline, pending when the state government secures an Air operational Certification to operate as an independent airline.

The Governor emphasized that reliable air transportation is pivotal to the success of the state’s tourism-driven economic blueprint. “These aircraft are more than machines—they are catalysts of commerce, bridges of culture, and vessels of hope,” he declared. “With Carnival Calabar, Obudu Ranch Resort, and our ecotourism assets beckoning the world, accessibility must never be a hindrance again.”

Beyond tourism, the initiative is expected to boost investor confidence and attract business interests into the state. Governor Otu noted that “no economy thrives in isolation. Investors want assurance of smooth logistics. These aircraft will ensure Cross River is no longer at the periphery of economic conversations.”

Former Minister Edem Duke hailed the initiative as a “game-changing intervention,” describing it as a testament to Governor Otu’s visionary leadership. He noted that this singular move would dramatically alter the perception of Calabar as a difficult destination, thereby opening up new opportunities in hospitality, conferences, agriculture, and export.

As the aircraft touched down, the symbolism was not lost on observers: a state once limited by distance was now poised to take flight
literally and figuratively. Governor Otu concluded with a tone of assurance, “This is just the beginning. Our People First agenda is not mere rhetoric. It is an unfolding promise
and Cross River is rising.”

22/07/2025

Official Re-Opening of Channel View Hotel by His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State supported by former Governor, his Excellency Mr. Donald Duke, Chairman, Daveandy Group, High Chief Asuquo Ekpenyong and wife, former Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs, Winifred Oyo Ita, Vice Chancellor, University of Cross River, Prof. Francisca Bassey with other eminent Cross Riverians.
plus to Tourism
plus to Hospitality
plus to Bed Spaces
plus to Conferences and Workshops
plus to the Economy

21/07/2025

Mikki Odionka of Idols Global today was received at the Governors Office by His Excellency Governor Bassey Otu. It was such a warm moment filled with excitement and assured future for the Calabar South born Cross Riverian.
A big congratulations to this two-time platinum ticket winner.

19/07/2025

Governor Bassey Otu Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State and former Governor Donald Duke among other dignitaries, graced the wedding of Miss. Yakee Onah, the daughter of the Chairman, Cross River Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah
Carnival Calabar Daniel Cobham Williams Officialcalabarfestival
Congratulations...
17/07/2025

17/07/2025

Gov Otu Appoints Prof Francisca Bassey as Substantive Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS

In a bold move aimed at strengthening the academic leadership of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Cross River State governor and Visitor to the University, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the appointment of Professor Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution.

The appointment, which takes immediate effect, follows the recommendation of the University’s Governing Council after what government sources describe as “a rigorous, merit-based and transparent selection process” involving some of the brightest academic minds within and outside the state.

Professor Bassey, a renowned scholar, researcher, and administrator of repute, emerges as the first woman to occupy the office since the institution’s transformation into a full-fledged university. Her selection, analysts say, signals a new chapter of academic rebirth and institutional stability, aligning with the Otu administration’s broader vision of repositioning educational institutions across the state.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, the Governor’s approval underscores his administration’s unflinching commitment to meritocracy, inclusivity, and the empowerment of capable Cross Riverians in strategic roles. “Her appointment reflects the Governor’s belief that leadership in higher education must be driven by competence, integrity and vision,” the statement noted.

Governor Otu congratulated Professor Bassey on her well-deserved elevation and urged her to offer bold, transformative leadership that would not only consolidate existing gains but reposition UNICROSS as a dynamic hub of academic excellence, research, and innovation. “You are stepping into a role that demands courage, creativity, and character,” the Governor said in a message conveyed to the new Vice Chancellor. “The future of our university system must be anchored on global standards, and I have every confidence that you will lead with distinction.”

An alumnus of the University of Calabar with over three decades of teaching, research, and academic administration, Professor Bassey has served in various capacities including Head of Department, Dean, and Deputy Vice Chancellor. Her academic contributions span numerous peer-reviewed publications and policy engagements, especially in the field of social sciences.

Her appointment comes at a critical moment for UNICROSS, as the university expands its academic programmes, pursues infrastructural growth, and deepens its industry partnerships. Stakeholders in the education sector have welcomed the development, describing it as timely and inspirational.

As she prepares to assume office, Professor Bassey has pledged to work collaboratively with staff, students, alumni, and government to elevate the university’s profile and reaffirm its role as a catalyst for human capital development in Cross River State and beyond.

The state government has assured the new Vice Chancellor of its unyielding support, noting that education remains a cornerstone of the “People First” governance agenda under Governor Otu’s leadership.

15/07/2025

Nigerians Mourns Expresident, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR. National Flag on Halfmast.

10/07/2025

Gov Otu hails Liyel Imoke at 64, celebrates legacy of quiet greatness

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu has paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Senator Liyel Imoke, describing him as “a statesman of uncommon grace” whose life and leadership continue to inspire generations.

In a heartfelt congratulatory message released in Calabar by His Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, Governor Otu lauded Imoke’s towering legacy, recalling his calm but resolute leadership style, transformative governance, and enduring commitment to the Cross River project.

“Governor Liyel Imoke remains a gentleman of purpose, whose storied life reflects visionary leadership, noble pedigree, and quiet excellence,” Otu said. “He has worn the garland of public service with dignified humility and left indelible footprints on the sands of our development journey.”

Imoke, who served as Governor of Cross River State from 2007 to 2015, is widely credited for his landmark interventions in rural development, education, and youth empowerment. Governor Otu praised these contributions as foundational to the state’s current trajectory.

“Your legacy is etched in human capital development and rural transformation. You governed not with noise, but with noble impact. We continue to draw strength from your bridge-building ethos and the quiet confidence with which you led,” Otu added.

Describing Imoke as a “refined mind and custodian of the Cross River dream,” Governor Otu noted that the former governor’s life has become a compass for rising leaders across Nigeria.

As the former Governor marked the milestone with family, friends and well-wishers, Otu offered prayers for more fruitful years ahead: “May your years ahead be crowned with joy, robust health, and divine wisdom. Happy birthday, Your Excellency — elder statesman, mentor, and beacon of quiet greatness.”

Governor Otu reaffirms the gratitude of the government and people of Cross River State, saying: “We salute your courage, your compassion, and your enduring contributions to our shared heritage.”

09/07/2025

PRESS RELEASE

House of Reps Committee Convenes Zonal Hearing on Constitution Review in Calabar

In a significant step towards deepening constitutional democracy in Nigeria, the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) has announced the commencement of its Zonal and National Public Hearings.
The exercise, designed to foster inclusive dialogue and capture the aspirations of Nigerians across all regions, will serve as a platform for citizens to contribute to the ongoing efforts at refining the nation’s legal and institutional framework.

The Calabar Centre, designated as Centre B, will host representatives and stakeholders from Cross River, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom States. The hearing is scheduled to hold on Saturday, 19th July, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at the Transcorp (Metropolitan) Hotel, Calabar.

Citizens, civil society groups, professional bodies, traditional rulers, and other interest blocs are invited to participate in this landmark engagement aimed at advancing a more just, equitable, and responsive Nigerian Constitution.

Signed:
Linus Obogo
Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor

05/07/2025

Gov Otu lauds South South transformation drive, declares region’s support for Tinubu’s continuity

Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, weekend declared the South-South geopolitical zone to be on a firm trajectory of national greatness under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing his administration’s transformative strides as “magical” and worthy of continued support.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Stakeholders Meeting held in Benin City on Saturday, Governor Otu traced the region’s political evolution and affirmed the collective resolve of the APC family to deepen its developmental philosophy across Nigeria. “We have come with an alabaster of endorsements,” he said, “and we are pouring generously and unreservedly on our dear Captain of the Progressives… the Jagaban of Africa.”

Reflecting on Cross River’s early decision to align with the APC in the South-South region, Otu noted that the state had once felt politically “orphaned” but never doubted the promise of a better future. “We assuaged the loneliness with the conviction that we took an informed decision because hope was indeed on the horizon,” he stated.

The governor lauded the sweeping reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, crediting Tinubu’s administration with restoring investor confidence and stabilizing the macroeconomic environment. He cited landmark achievements including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of foreign exchange rates, a $40 billion external reserve, and the $13.17 billion trade surplus as clear indicators of progress.

Governor Otu also praised initiatives like the student loan scheme, consumer credit access, tariff removals on essential goods, and robust agricultural incentives as part of a broader effort to ease citizens’ burdens and stimulate productivity. “Our focus on infrastructure, economic growth and social welfare is well poised,” he said, adding that “our delivery strides at various sectors are gallant and sustainable.”

Emphasizing the importance of consistency in leadership, Otu described Tinubu’s capacity to weather turbulent national challenges while maintaining focus and resolve as emblematic of visionary governance. “Nothing attracts greatness to a personality like the consistency of character and excellency of courage in the face of daunting demands,” he said.

He called on party faithful and regional stakeholders to close ranks around President Tinubu and the APC as a whole, warning against disrupting a working formula. “It is a great error to change a working formula, a productive philosophy or an efficient workman,” Otu declared. “We in the South-South have tasted and trusted the capacity of Mr. President.”

In his closing remarks, Governor Otu offered benedictions for the South-South, the APC, and the Nigerian federation, expressing confidence that the Renewed Hope vision would continue to inspire national restoration. “God bless the South-South APC! God bless the APC! God bless Nigeria!” he proclaimed.

03/07/2025

The drumming endorsement of and by Cross River South Consultative Forum
03/07/2025

03/07/2025

PHOTO SPEAK:
When Cross River South Consultative Forum, brought together all the different interest/political groups, with unprecedented number of supporters at the UJ Esuene stadium in Calabar, for the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu, for a second term in office.
02/07/2025

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