Office of the Special Assistant on Communication, Cross River State (2025)

09/12/2024

Calabar Catholic Archdiocese to Gov Otu: We’re proud of your achievements so far

The Catholic Archdiocese of Calabar, on Monday, lauded the Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu, for his tremendous achievements in a little over a year in office.

Praising Governor Otu during a courtesy call on him at his Dan Archibong temporary office in Calabar, the delegation of the Calabar Archdiocese, led by the parish priest of St. Charles Lwanga, Rev. Father Malachy Ephraim, commended the governor’s achievements and expressed optimism for continued collaboration between the state government and the Catholic Church.

“We must confess that we are proud of your accomplishments within this short period in office. Your elevation and installation as an Apostle are testaments to your growth in Christ and commitment to service,” Fr. Ephraim stated.

The delegation highlighted the Catholic Church’s historical contributions to Cross River State, particularly in health, education, and human development, while appealing for government support to rectify past damages to Church infrastructure.

“In 1945, the first Catholic Bishop of Calabar secured the property that now hosts Holy Child College, which opened in 1952. However, a house for our bishop, started in 1953, was destroyed in 1971 by the then government of the state. We have begun efforts to rebuild, and we appeal for support to correct this mistake,” Fr. Ephraim concluded.

In response, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration's commitment to delivering tangible progress in the face of criticism, emphasizing that his government’s actions will speak louder than words.

Responding, Governor Otu thanked the delegation for the visit and acknowledged the challenges of leading a state in dire economic straits but maintained that his administration is determined to overcome them.

“We came to meet a state that was challenged economically, but we knew where the issues were. Changing the narrative required tackling obstacles head-on. Sooner or later, posterity will vindicate our efforts.”

He further emphasized inclusive governance, noting that the welfare of the people remains his top priority.

“Government is for everybody, not for a few. We cannot continue with a situation where a small minority benefits while the majority suffers. Even with limited funds, we are making progress that neutral observers can recognize as genuine efforts to uplift our state.”

Otu said that regardless of the voices of critics, “The only way to reply to critics is to do even more. I am not so much a fan of too much press and media, but I know that actions speak louder than words. What we have done within the past few months is worth much more. When people critique, they know deep down that we are doing our very best,” he added.

09/12/2024

05/12/2024

Firm Commends Gov. Otu for Building Investment-Enabling climate in Cross River State

Sky Run Company, a Chinese household electronics manufacturing firm, operating in the Calabar Free Trade Zone, Cross River State has commended the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu for creating an enabling investment climate in the state.

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has been commended for creating an investment-friendly climate in the state. The Chinese household electronics manufacturing company, Sky Run, gave the commendation on Wednesday when the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, George Woo, visited Governor Otu on a courtesy call. Governor Otu, who responded to the company’s appreciation, also expressed satisfaction with the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of Sky Run in Cross River State, saying they have impacted many youths through training and technology and knowledge transfer initiatives.

The Governor appreciated the company for inducting twenty (20) Cross Riverians through its partnership with the State Government's 'Skill-In-The-Hands' initiative, training them in various technical areas and providing them with automatic employment in the electronics manufacturing company. He also praised the Chinese firm for being sensitive to federal character, where over 1,000 Nigerians are employed by the company, with a bulk of them being Cross Riverians, who are playing key roles in Sky Run's success story in Cross River and Nigeria at large.

"I want to applaud you and assure you that we are solidly behind you. Your corporate social responsibility has shown the true quality and character of Sky Run as a serious business conglomerate. Your mandate is totally in line with the 'People First' mantra of our administration," Otu said.

Charging Cross Riverians in the workforce of Sky Run to distinguish themselves in their respective places of assignment to boost the confidence of their employer and serve as worthy ambassadors of the state, the Governor assured the Sky Run delegation of his administration's commitment to building a virile sub-national economy that will pave the way for private sector investments to thrive.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of Sky Run, Mr. George Woo, conveyed his company's gratitude to the government and people of Cross River for their support over the past 20 years, which he maintained has contributed immensely to the growth and development of Sky Run.

Informing the Governor of his company's preference for Cross River indigenes among about 1,000 Nigerians in their employ, Woo further noted that, consistent with the present administration's 'People First' agenda, Sky Run has consummated a long-term technical collaboration with the State Government to drive and implement the 'Skill-In-The-Hands' initiative.

He said the 'Skill-In-The-Hands' initiative is aimed at empowering youths in the state and repositioning them as valuable assets to society, adding that the initiative also aligns with the company's philosophy of 'build the youth, build the nation, and make a better life.'

He narrated that 20 youths have successfully graduated from the program and another 20 have been inducted for the second batch. The Chinese national stated that the collaboration will promote employment generation, craftsmanship, and boost the industrial sector of the state, nay Nigeria.

He solicited the continued collaboration and support of the government of Cross River State.

21/11/2024

Governor Otu heads Committee on National Electrification

…as NEC Moves to End National Grid Collapse
The National Economic Council (NEC) has resolved to reinforce the implementation of the National Electrification Strategy in a bid to end the collapse of the nation’s power grid.

This is just as Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is the Chairman of NEC, told members of the Council that access to energy is a fundamental right and not a privilege because electricity is the oxygen of economic growth.

Accordingly, the Council has constituted a committee on National Electrification to help address the challenges in the power sector.

The formation of the committee was among the decisions taken by NEC at the end of its 146th meeting on Thursday, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The committee, headed by Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, is to work towards deepening states’ engagements within the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan.

Following a presentation by the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the National Economic Council observed that Nigeria needs a reformed and diversified electricity system, noting that by empowering states, accessibility and affordability of electricity can be enabled, ensuring that all regions effectively meet their specific energy needs.

Members of the committee include Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau.

Others are the Ministers of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu; Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu; Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change; Special Adviser to the President on Power; Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA); and Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company.

Earlier in his address, Vice President Shettima maintained that access to energy is a fundamental right and not a privilege because electricity is the oxygen of economic growth.

He outlined issues before the Council that require urgent attention, including energy infrastructure, human capital development, creative industries, fiscal strategy, industrial innovation, and long-term development planning, describing them as foundational to the transformation Nigeria needs.

21/11/2024

Residents Of Calabar South Lauds Gov Bassey Otu Over The Completion Of Yellow Duke Mini Bridge, Other Projects.

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State have been commended for embarking on people oriented projects and programs aimed at making life easy and meaningful for ordinary citizens in the state.

The people made this known when Barr. Ekepenyong Akiba, Special Adviser, General duties to governor Bassey Edet Otu visited some projects sites in Calabar, the state capital.

85 years old , Deacon Bassey Effiom, a resident of yellow duke street told our reporters " just look at where we are standing right now, this culvert at yellow duke has been a death trap and source of concern for several years now. Subsequent administrations have come and gone with promises to fix this place without anyone coming to our rescue. But just within one year of the administration of Prince Bassey Otu, just look at the quality of work that has been done. He has been able to do a perfect job and also deliver on time .

" I appreciate the fact that apart from awarding the contract, he also will come here to inspect the job. We are very grateful for him and we say that God should give him the wisdom and strength to do more. This is a permanent solution to a problem that has been on for years and has even taken several lives. We are grateful to him and his entire exco " deacon Effiom concluded.

Another resident, Ntebri Christopher said " for helping us to fix this terrible spot, it is clear that the governor is a leader who listens to the cry of his people. He loves the people and puts them first. He is not the first governor of this state, we have had several government before him. They will come here and promise us heaven and earth but at the end, nothing will happen. For the first time, we have seen a man who came here as one of his first on the spot visit after his election and promised to fix the deadly spot and today, that promise has been actualized.

"There is no one who didn't know the danger this place posed to both residents and commuters. People have died here because of the bad road. Whenever it rains, this place becomes a no go area. But today, no matter the kind of rain or volume of water that passes through here, everything will seem very easy as if nothing happened. All we can say is, God bless the governor and his entire team"

Speaking while inspecting the projects, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Adviser to the governor on General duties said "the intention of the governor is to immediately improve our infrastructure in the state, this will ensure that our people, especially those involved in small and medium scall business have basic platform and opportunity to make little gain in their businesses while waiting for the bigger opportunities.

"you will agree with me that with the little resources available to the state in terms of federal allocation, our dear governor have been doing his best to drive infrastructural development not only in Calabar, but also in the central, in communities like Nde in Ikom, central part of the state, Abakpa and the whole of that area in Ogoja which is in the northern part of the state and so on.

"right now, all that the state government need is the support and prayers of Cross Riverians to enable the governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu and his able deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey implement all that is contained in their people first mantra which we all believe is for the good and well-being of all of us " he maintained.

Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba was accompanied during the visit by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Edem Darlington and the Special Assistant, New Media, Andrea Ekeng. Among the sites visited were the mini bridge at Yellow Duke , construction of Harcourt street and the renovation of Model secondary school, Uwanse, all in Calabar south.

17/11/2024

Gov. Otu, Tinubu-Ojo Flags Off 2nd Carnival Calabar Dry Run

Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has flagged off the second dry run of the Carnival Calabar festival, with the assurance of a better experience in 2024.

Speaking at the flag-off point at the popular 11/11 roundabout in Calabar, Governor Otu, represented by the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the glamour and razzmatazz that characterize the day are testaments to the state’s preparedness for the annual fiesta that has become a global tourism phenomenon.

“Today, it’s yet another one. We are noted for this. This is our specialty. In sub-Saharan Africa, we have sold carnival to the world. Cross River is known to be a model state for the carnival.

“With the kind of government we have now, I can assure you that this year’s edition will be bolder and better,” the governor added.

Continuing, the state’s number one citizen enthused, “As I flag off this campaign, I call on all tourism and carnival enthusiasts to brace themselves for the globally acclaimed soiree, as concerted efforts have been put in place to stage a huge event."

On her part, Mujidat Folashade Tinubu-Ojo implored Cross Riverians and Nigerians who value culture and heritage to uplift the tourism sector by encouraging Carnival Calabar, which she averred “speaks volumes of you as individuals and the society at large,” adding that “we need to commit whatever we can to encourage this Carnival as it is no longer a Calabar thing.”

Also commenting, the European Union Cultural Centre Ambassador, Sunny Onuoha, applauded the government and people of the state for sustaining the event and introducing more aesthetics using local costumes that have also helped to interpret the yearly theme and its entire coordination.

“There is a need for our people living overseas to come back and enjoy Africa. We need to promote Africa; we need to promote our culture, the way we live, and the way we dress.

“It is the way of life of all of us, and we are completely indigenous people, so all of us as Africans need to promote our culture,” the representative of the European Cultural Centre advised.

Onuoha further assured that the European Cultural Centre, Abuja, would help in the area of technical training as well as do a lot in the area of promotion, being part of an exchange program to support Carnival Calabar.

Ikechi Uko, the international tourism expert and Carnival Calabar consultant, was also present at the flag-off.

This year’s event, which has as its theme “Our Shared Prosperity,” saw revellers from both performing and non-performing bands parading the 12-kilometre Carnival routes immediately after the flag-off of the event.

15/11/2024

Gov. Otu inaugurates 16 man minimum wage implementation committee.

The governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu, has charged the Joint public service negotiation and implementation committee of the new national minimum wage in the state, to submit its report within the shortest possible time.

Governor Otu gave the charge recently during the inauguration of the committee at the Glass House, temporary office of the deputy governor in Calabar.

Represented by the deputy governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Otu assured that as soon as the report is received, he would immediately start the implementation of whatever is agreed by the committee.

"We would plead that you submit your report before the governor within the shortest possible time, once that is done, we will immediately start the implementation of what has been agreed.

"The administration of Prince Bassey Otu is christened 'People First,' so, the people will always come first and you will agree with me that he has been the most labour friendly governor that we have in Nigeria and this would be reflected on the negotiation that you are going to see and the result of it is what all Cross Riverians would be happy that we indeed did the right thing as a state.

"We are going to be relying on this committee to guide us, that is why we have our Accountant General here to open the books so that we see what we have as a state, because government is willing and ready to meet with the yearnings of the people of Cross River," Otu explained.

He implored the committee to come up with a minimum wage that would serve the people of the state and in line with other states, while taking into cognizance the peculiarity of the state.

On his part, Chairman, Cross River chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Gregory Olayi, applauded the governor for inaugurating the committee, a development he said, has put in check some of the issues bothering the union.

Olayi assured that the labour union will cooperate with other members of the committee to work tirelessly so as to meet the timeline set for the team.

Responding, the State Head of Service and chairman of the committee, Dr. Innocent Eteng, assured that his team would do its job painstakingly and in the interest of workers and state at large.

"For us, it is very auspicious, we can assure you that we are going to do our job painstakingly and assiduously in the interest of Cross River State.

"We will discuss with labour very amicably to take into cognizance the circumstances of our peculiar situation as well as consider the interest of workers in the state," Eteng remarked.

Members of the committee include, Special Adviser, labour and productivity; Permanent Secretaries of Ministries of Finance, Local Government Service Commission, Budget, Justice as well as office of the Head of Service and SSG/GAO.

Others are: Accountant General of the State, Chairmen of NLC and TUC in the state, State President of NULGE, Chairman joint service negotiating council; Chairman, Medical and health workers Union; Chairman, Parliamentary Staff Union; Secretary, Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria; while the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Establishment is to serve as the committee Secretary.

Government House Press
Calabar
15/11/24

13/11/2024

N498bn 2025 budget: Gov Otu’s bold step towards sustainable growth

By Linus Obogo
In an audacious and significant move geared towards recalibrating the economic landscape of Cross River State, Governor Bassey Edet Otu recently presented the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the State House of Assembly.
Dubbed the "Budget of Sustainable Growth," the proposed budget stands at an impressive N498 billion, representing a remarkable 98% increase from the previous fiscal year. The ambitious financial plan seeks to address critical needs while promoting sustainable growth across various sectors, exemplifying a proactive approach to governance in a challenging economic climate.

The 2025 Appropriation Bill is characterized by a substantial allocation toward capital projects, with N328 billion (66%) dedicated to infrastructure and long-term investments, while N170 billion (34%) is set aside for recurrent expenditure. This strategic allocation reflects a commitment to building a sustainable future for Cross River State, as articulated by Governor Otu during his budget address.

The emphasis on capital expenditure over recurrent spending indicates a clear intention to foster development that transcends day-to-day operational costs, focusing instead on projects that will yield long-term benefits for the state’s economy and its citizens.

In detailing the breakdown of sectoral allocations, Governor Otu underscored his administration's commitment to identifying and addressing the pressing needs of the state. The budget allocates N100 billion for infrastructure, signaling a recognition of the crucial role that roads and other foundational projects play in economic development and job creation.

Education, another critical area, receives N81 billion, with a specific focus on increasing the literacy rate from approximately 80.03% to 98% by the end of the governor's tenure. This goal reflects a commitment to providing quality education and ensuring accessibility for all.

The health sector is allocated N25 billion, with a focus on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates and improving healthcare facilities. This investment is essential for ensuring that citizens have access to quality healthcare, a critical component of overall societal well-being.

Additionally, agriculture, judiciary, and tourism also have their sizable bites at the cherry with allocations of N11 billion, N20 billion, and N5 billion respectively, highlighting a holistic approach to development that encompasses various facets of society.

To finance this ambitious budget, the Otu administration has outlined a diverse revenue strategy that includes grants from international organizations, and internally generated revenue. By reducing dependency on federal allocations, the administration aims to enhance financial independence and ensure a more stable economic foundation for the state. This diversification is crucial, particularly in a context where economic challenges loom large and traditional funding sources may be strained.

A standout feature of the 2025 budget is its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Governor Otu's administration has prioritized several SDGs, including SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). This alignment underscores the administration's commitment to addressing immediate developmental needs while contributing to the broader global agenda for sustainability.

The focus on infrastructure development is particularly noteworthy as it is deliberate, with plans for continued construction of roads, bridges, and rail lines. These investments are expected to stimulate economic activity, enhance connectivity, and create jobs across the state, fostering a robust environment for business and trade.

Furthermore, the commitment to improving the education sector through free and compulsory education policies and technical training reflects an understanding of the importance of human capital development in driving economic growth.

While the proposed budget paints an optimistic picture for the future, it is essential to acknowledge the numerous challenges that the state faces. There is the prevailing unfavorable economic climate, characterized by the devaluation of the naira and fluctuations in the exchange rate. These factors have significantly impacted project implementation, necessitating a careful reevaluation of priorities.

Governor Otu acknowledged that his
administration had to scale down on certain projects while prioritizing those with immediate impacts on citizens.
Additionally, the state is still grappling with crushing debt burden, with substantial allocations directed toward debt servicing. As of December 2023, N2.21 billion had already been forfeited to meet debt obligations, and by the third quarter of 2024, N7.87 billion had been expended on servicing these debts. This financial strain poses a significant challenge to the administration's growth objectives and underscores the need for prudent fiscal management.

An essential aspect of the 2025 Appropriation Bill is the emphasis on participatory governance. Governor Otu highlighted the extensive consultations conducted with various stakeholders, including government ministries, civil society organizations, and the public. Public hearings held across the three senatorial districts—Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja—allowed citizens to voice their aspirations and needs regarding governance and development.

This participatory approach not only enhances transparency but also ensures that the budget reflects the priorities of the people it serves.
Governor Otu’s assertion that "we are here to serve the people, and their input is crucial to our governance" encapsulates the philosophy that underpins his administration's approach to budget planning. By incorporating the voices of citizens, the government can create policies and allocate resources that resonate with the realities faced by the populace.

The 2025 Appropriation Bill proposed by Governor Bassey Edet Otu represents a bold step toward fostering sustainable growth. With substantial allocations for infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, and tourism, the budget reflects a comprehensive strategy to address the pressing needs of the state while promoting long-term development.

However, the challenges presented by the current economic environment cannot be overstated. The prudent management of resources, along with the diversification of revenue sources, will be critical in navigating these complexities. Furthermore, the commitment to participatory governance and public engagement serves as a reminder that the success of any budget ultimately hinges on the trust and collaboration between the government and its citizens.

Obogo is Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Otu
[email protected]

26/10/2024

Continue To Pray For Nigeria, Otu Urges Nigerians

The governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu, has urged Nigerians to exercise patience with government's reforms, emphasizing that the present administration is taking deliberate steps to address the prevailing economic hardships biting the country, calling on Nigerians to pray for the nation.

The governor made the appeal during a "5 star celebration and installation" service in honour of Dr. Emmah Isong in Faith Mansion World Center, City of testimonies, Calabar

In his remarks, Sen. Otu noted that the nation is going through a challenging phase, similar to what other great countries experienced, and that through useful reforms, they emerged as better societies.

"The nation is passing through a difficult phase, but almost all great nations passed through these kind of difficulties"

"The difference is that those nations prepared for the rainy day; Nigeria did not. That is why we have to sacrifice, because it is only when we sacrifice that good things will come. It is not for us to be despondent, let us join hands with government for a better Nigeria."

The governor congratulated Archbishop Emmah Isong who was celebrating his 60th birthday, 40 years of the call of God, 35 years marriage anniversary, 15 years Bishopric thanksgiving and elevation to Archbishop, aptly tagged the "5 Star celebration"

Otu described the Archbishop as a True man of God and a blessing to Cross River State. He said his legacy in moulding men and women in the ways of God is worthy of emulation.

"God has used this man to bless Cross River State in very many ways. You have been able to nurture our men and women in the way of God and promoted good values in the State"

"You success story is a lesson to us all, that God can raise anybody to any height, if you are ready to work for him"

"Congratulations on this elevation; now you are on a higher pedestal, God will use you to function in a greater capacity for even greater impact"

Sen. Otu reappointed Archbishop Isong as chairman of the anti-tax board in the State, a position he held in the last administration

Office of the Special Assistant on Communication, Cross River State

09/12/2024

05/12/2024

21/11/2024

21/11/2024

17/11/2024

15/11/2024

13/11/2024

26/10/2024

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