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

Government House Press Calabar, Calabar (2025)

25/08/2025

Guard of Honour for the start of a new week.

24/08/2025

Gov. Otu preaches cultural preservation at 20-year-old Leboku festival

Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has advocated for the preservation of our culture and heritage, insisting that they remain the core of human existence, which must be preserved at all costs.

Otu made the advocacy during the 2025 Leboku International New Yam Festival, celebrated in Ugep by communities across the Yakurr Local Government Area to mark the beginning of the new yam harvest

Acknowledging the role of Culture and tradition in the development of human existence, He commended the people of Ugep for their dedication to preserving their cultural heritage, which has significantly contributed to the state's rich tourism potential.

Leboku is an age-old tradition of Ugep and surrounding communities in Yakurr. "The introduction of the international dimension to the event in 2005 by the State Government by bringing together the various communities of the Yakurr Nation was primarily aimed at reducing inter-communal skirmishes, creating a common tourism attraction, and increasing food production.

"This year’s event therefore marks the 20th edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival. A fair appraisal of the fundamental objective of the event has confirmed that a significant milestone has been achieved. May I therefore use this occasion to commend all the sons and daughters of the Yakurr extraction for their efforts in sustaining this event and its deliverables.”

Continuing, the governor stated: “The state is satisfied that over the years, the overall purpose of this festival has been achieved.” He urged young people to embrace farming as a serious business to combat food insecurity.

“As we celebrate Leboku, I wish to draw the attention of other communities to draw inspiration from the unity and oneness of the Yakurr people.

"Beyond this, I wish to re-emphasize that Cross River State is among the few states in the Federation endowed with fertile land and a conducive climate for agriculture; thereby bestowing on us the comparative advantage over other sub-nationals in cash and food crops production.”

According to the governor, “while we strive to maximize these potentials, there is apprehension over a generational gap in farming as an occupation. The youths seem to have abandoned farming to their aged parents in favor of white-collar jobs in urban centers. If this trend remains unchecked, we may face food shortages in the next two decades, wallowing in hunger amidst plenty. We cannot have what it takes to achieve food security and then depend on other sub-nationals for food supply. It would be an antithesis of our natural endowments.”

The theme for the 2025 Leboku International New Yam Festival, “Fostering Community Co-operation for Sustainable Food Security,” aligns perfectly with the administration’s emphasis on smallholder farmers’ cooperatives. "When farmers with a common crop preference unite, it becomes easier for these groups to leverage the numerous incentives provided by the state government. While food security is an achievable milestone of my administration, the target will be easily met when there is cooperation among farmers in our respective communities."

Otu promised that “we will not relent in providing tractors, planters, mini irrigation machines, soft loans, grants, improved seedlings, fertilizer, pesticides, and other farming incentives to boost crop yield.”

21/08/2025

Gov Otu Seeks Federal Backing for Nutrition, Health Reforms

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has restated his administration’s commitment to a people-centered government, with a special focus on nutrition, preventive healthcare, and education, while calling for greater federal support to sustain reforms.

Speaking in Calabar while receiving the Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Mrs. Uju Rochas-Anwuka, the governor said his administration deliberately designed its policies to place citizens at the center of development, especially in sectors critical to human capital growth.

“Our agenda was very clear from the beginning; we want a people’s government here. Everything we do places the people at the center,” the governor declared. “Education and health are the two key areas that, if not working well, no society can make progress.”

He explained that his administration prioritized nutrition and preventive healthcare as the foundation for long-term development, noting that efforts have already yielded measurable results. “Since we started strengthening our nutrition sector, we have seen a steady decline in infant morbidity and mortality rates,” he said.

Governor Otu highlighted some of the interventions introduced by his government, including fully paid maternity and paternity leave, support for parents to nurture their babies, and plans to fortify staple foods such as rice with vitamins. He added that Cross River was also exploring the expansion of school feeding programmes to reach more children.

“Preventive health is far more effective than tackling ailments after they occur. That is why we are investing in nutrition, early childcare, and food security to build a strong immune base right from infancy,” he explained.

Governor Otu thanked the presidential aide for the visit, assuring that Cross River State remains committed to reforms that will improve health, education, and the overall wellbeing of its people.

In her remarks, Mrs. Rochas-Anwuka described Nigeria’s malnutrition crisis as a national emergency, ranking the country 1st in Africa and 2nd globally for child malnutrition. She warned that annual losses due to malnutrition exceed $1.5 billion, undermining human capital and national development.

“The Nutrition 774 Initiative was conceived to provide a unified response to Nigeria’s malnutrition crisis, elevating nutrition as a national priority,” she said. “It is a multi-sectoral, community-based framework established to improve nutritional outcomes across the 774 Local Government Areas of the country.”

According to her, the initiative is anchored on a five-phase Strategic Plan that prioritizes actions to strengthen governance structures, ensure accountability, and guarantee long-term sustainability. She added that each state council on nutrition is expected to provide overall leadership, policy direction, and oversight to drive the implementation of the N774 initiative.

She commended the Cross River State Government for making budgetary provisions for nutrition, noting that such commitment would strengthen local systems and align with national priorities.

“The vision is to achieve a well-nourished and healthy Nigerian population through strengthened local systems and coordinated national action on nutrition,” she said.

20/08/2025

Governor Otu hosts Reps Committee, seeks holistic solid mineral reforms

Cross River State governor, Sen. Bassey Otu has advocated for a comprehensive legislative reform aimed at empowering states in the management of mineral resources.

Governor Otu made the call when members of the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals paid him a courtesy visit in Government House, Calabar.

The governor re-emphasized Cross River State's rich mineral deposits, stating, “Without any fear of equivocation, Cross River State is one of the solid mineral hubs in Nigeria.” He highlighted the commercial quantities of limestone, granite, gold, uranium, barite, iron ore, kaolins, manganese and other minerals available within the state, expressing hope that their exploration could bolster the state's revenue. However, he lamented, “For now, this is a dream that is yet to come true.”

He pointed out the legal challenges posed by existing federal laws, specifically the 1999 Constitution, which grants the federal government exclusive control over mineral resources. He stated: “Here lies the albatross of solid minerals development in States, including Cross River State,” referencing the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and the Land Use Act of 1978, which complicate the state's ability to manage its resources effectively.

Governor Otu also raised concerns about the environmental impact of mining operations, noting, “While the Federal Government is drawing huge revenue from these minerals, the locals are constantly blighted by air and water pollution.” He urged for a fair and honest discussion on how to equitably manage these resources to benefit local communities.

In his call to action, Otu proposed several amendments to the relevant laws, suggesting, “The House of Representatives should include the amendment of the relevant Acts in regard to Land Administration in the ongoing Constitutional Amendments.” He advocated for the ownership of solid minerals to be included in the Residual list, allowing states more control over their natural resources.

“The amendments, if enacted, will improve the livelihoods of citizens, reduce illegal mining, and ultimately lead to a rise in the state’s Gross Domestic Product,” he added.

Governor Otu reiterated the importance of articulating Cross River State's position in the ongoing constitutional discussions, stating, “Your visit is very apt, considering the worrisome control of almost all the vital sources of revenue to the State by the Federal Government.”

Speaking earlier, the house committee chairman on Solid Minerals, Hon. Gaza Jonathan said their visit to the Cross River State is to investigate the compliance of mining companies with the Minerals and Mines Act 2007 and the Explosive Act and to participate in an Expo on Solid Minerals. He expressed concerns over illegal mining and its detrimental effects on communities. "We must take a critical look at how our people are actually getting their share of the minerals being exploited," underscoring the need for improved governance and adherence to laws designed to benefit local populations.

Hon. Jonathan also stressed the importance of remediation and reclamation following mining activities, citing successful examples from abroad where such efforts have transformed former mining sites into tourist attractions. "These areas should be filled back," he insisted, referencing the tragic consequences of poorly managed mining operations that have claimed lives in places across the nation.

He urged the governor to formalize the consent process for mining activities to ensure that communities benefit from their resources. He advocated for agreements that would clarify the relationship between mining companies and local communities and promote sustainable development in the State.

19/08/2025

Gov Otu felicitates photographers on World Photography Day

Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has felicitated photographers in the state and indeed, Nigeria on the occasion of World Photography Day, describing them as “gifted lensmen whose artistry continues to illuminate hidden beauties, preserve fleeting emotions, and narrate timeless stories through the silent eloquence of imagery.”

The Governor, in a goodwill message signed by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, lauded photographers for their rare gift of transforming ordinary moments into enduring masterpieces that speak louder than words. He noted that through their unerring vision, generations continue to be inspired, while history and humanity are documented in frames that defy time.

While singling out his personal Photographer and Senior Special Assistant, Mr. Daniel Williams for praise, Otu quipped: “You have used your lenses to inform and bring Cross Riverians up to date with our projects and events. This clearly shows that you are not just a photographer but an agent of change"

The governor further observed that photography is more than an art, stressing that “it is a profound testimony of life’s dynamism, a bridge between passion and purpose, and an enduring heritage of truth captured in light and colour.” He encouraged photographers to remain steadfast in their noble craft, which has become a universal language of expression, memory, and identity.

“On this auspicious day,” the Governor declared, “I celebrate your artistry, your elegance, and your devotion to a profession that blends talent with timeless beauty.”

15/08/2025

Gov Otu Signs ₦104bn Supplementary Budget into Law, Approves Roads, Electricity, Counterpart Funds Bills

Governor Bassey Otu has signed into law the Cross River State Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2025, injecting an additional ₦104 billion into the state’s budget and raising the total 2025 fiscal outlay from ₦538 billion to ₦642 billion.

Speaking during the signing ceremony at the State Executive Chambers, Governor’s Office, Calabar, Otu described the supplementary budget as a “strategic and deliberate intervention” to respond to shifting macroeconomic realities and seize new investment opportunities in critical sectors.

According to him, the new allocation will be deployed to fast-track the completion of key infrastructure projects, enhance agricultural value chains, strengthen healthcare and education, bolster security, and drive job creation through targeted investments.

“This supplementary appropriation will reposition our state for accelerated growth. Every kobo will be spent prudently for the benefit of all Cross Riverians,” the governor assured, while thanking the State House of Assembly for its speedy passage of the bill.

In addition to the appropriation bill, the governor also assented to three other laws, namely: the Cross River State Counterpart Funds (Amendment) Law 2025, which updates donor fund management structures; the Cross River State Roads Funds Law 2025, establishing a dedicated fund for rural and semi-urban road development; and the Cross River State Electricity Law 2025, providing a legal framework for state-level power generation and distribution following constitutional amendments.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the supplementary budget aligns with constitutional provisions and targets priority sectors across administration, economic growth, healthcare, justice, regional integration, and social services. He commended the governor’s fiscal discipline and pledged continued legislative support to drive the administration’s vision.

15/08/2025

Detachment of Personnel from Government House Calabar on Guard of Honour to His Excellency, the Governor Governor Bassey Otu - 15/08/2025

13/08/2025

Cross River just added two new bombardier CRJ1000 jet to their fleet of aircraft.
Cheers from the Vice President who performed the commissioning ceremony and the Governor for making this a reality.

📷

12/08/2025

VP Shettima Commissions Two New Cally Air Aircraft, Commends Otu’s Initiative

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday commissioned two new Cross River State–owned Cally Air aircraft, praising Governor Bassey Otu for the initiative’s forward-looking investments in aviation and other critical sectors.

Speaking at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar, where he represented President Bola Tinubu to commission two newly acquired Cally Air aircraft on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima described the initiative as a strategic step toward economic growth, tourism promotion, and regional aviation leadership.

He praised Governor Bassey Otu’s vision, noting that Cross River’s efforts align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in strengthening food security, energy security, and economic self-reliance. “Cross River is demonstrating what strong subnational leadership looks like. The country needs more of this kind of vision,” Shettima said.

Governor Otu, in his remarks, traced the state’s economic strategy to the integration of three “engines” set in motion by his predecessors: tourism under Donald Duke, rural development under Senator Liyel Imoke, and industrialization under Professor Ben Ayade. “My goal has been to fuse these into a robust, diversified economy that frees us from overdependence on FAAC allocations,” Otu explained.

Otu said the expansion of Cally Air from two to four aircraft, with three more planned, is a key plank of the state’s tourism policy and its ambition to create an aviation hub serving not just Nigeria but the entire Gulf of Guinea.

The event also formed part of the Vice President’s working visit to Cross River, which included stops at the state SME clinic and library.

With the commissioning of the two new aircraft, Cross River State is positioning itself as both a tourism powerhouse and a regional aviation gateway.

10/08/2025

Photos: The final moments of Late Prof. Ibiang Oden Ewa, as graced by Cross River No 001. H.E Prince Bassey Otu...

08/08/2025

It's time to act responsibly and accountable!

05/08/2025

Gov Otu rallies Diasporan Cross Riverians at convention in Birmingham

Cross River indigenes in the Diaspora, last weekend, converged on Birmingham, United Kingdom, in what was clearly a new chapter of collaboration with the state government at the maiden edition of the Diaspora Convention.

With the theme: “Diaspora Contribution to the Development and Sustainability of Cross River State,” the convention signaled a pivotal moment for the state’s international community and its deepening relationship with the home government.

The event, which drew participants from Europe, North America, Asia, and across Africa, was graced by the state governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu and his wife, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, both of whom received a rousing ovation upon arrival at the convention arena.

Addressing the large audience, Governor Otu who delivered an emotionally stirring keynote said: “My dear brothers and sisters in the diaspora, this gathering is more than symbolic; it is strategic. We are here because the bridge home has finally been built—and I, your governor, have come to walk across it with you.”

He continued: “You have shown that though distance may stretch across oceans, your hearts have remained anchored to the banks of Calabar, Obubra, Bekwarra, Obanliku, and every inch of Cross River soil. I salute your enduring love, and I declare to you: Cross River needs you now more than ever.”

Governor Otu emphasized that under his People First governance agenda, the state is actively creating room for diaspora involvement in policy shaping, investments, healthcare, education, and mentorship. “This government is not only about those at home—it is about all our people, everywhere. The talents, capital, and experiences you have acquired abroad must find expression back home. Come, invest in your state, build in your communities, and help us write a story of sustainable transformation.”

In a particularly impassioned moment, the governor who was presented with an award by the Mayor of Birmingham, Zafar Iqbal, declared: “You are not outsiders. You are stakeholders. You are not mere observers of Cross River’s destiny—you are architects of its future.

L-R : Chief Asuquo Ekpenyong, Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, wife of CRS Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Edet Otu at the CRID 2025 International Convention in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

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