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Tag: Prince Bassey Otu

  • Gov Otu Receives NEWMAP-EIB Team, Pledges  Full Support To Combat Gully Erosion In C’River

    Gov Otu Receives NEWMAP-EIB Team, Pledges  Full Support To Combat Gully Erosion In C’River

    By Ukeh Omang

    The Cross River Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has pledged his full support to the Nigerian Climate Adaptation – Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) in its effort to combat gully erosion in the state.

    Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made the pledge at the Government House, Calabar, on Friday, during a courtesy visit by the Federal Project Management Team, led by the National Project Coordinator, Engr. Anda Ayuba Yalaks.

    He acknowledged the intervention made by Cross River State NEWMAP phase 1 and thanked the team for continuing from where they stopped. He pledged the state government’s support for the project, underscoring its significance to the preservation of livelihoods of the people who would have otherwise been adversely affected by fully erosion, as seen in the destruction of farmlands.

    The visit was part of the Cross River State Scoping Mission aimed at assessing the state’s readiness to participate in the project and draw funding from the European Investment Bank.

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    The mission objective is to evaluate the state’s effective readiness, as a crucial step towards disbursement and project implementation take off. The visit also demonstrates the project’s commitment to collaboration and stakeholders’ engagement towards  ensuring the successful implementation of NEWMAP-EIB in the state.

    The National Project Coordinator was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses John Osogi; The State Project Coordinator, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo and the State Project Management Unit.

    Highlight of the visit was a special moment of recognition, where the Deputy Governor presented a plaque to the National Project Coordinator (NPC) for outstanding performance. This gesture acknowledges the NPC’s exceptional work and dedication to the project.

  • Gov Otu speaks on alleged rift with some NASS members

    Gov Otu speaks on alleged rift with some NASS members

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Cross River Governor, Prince Bassey Otu has eased political tension that emanates from an alleged face-off with some members of the National Assembly in the state.

    Responding to question bothering on the issue during a media chat in Calabar on Monday, the governor stated that he has no problem with any member of the National Assembly. He cautioned people against dwelling on social media narratives to form opinions about governance in the state.

    He said as governor, his primary concern is the development of the state, and that everyone must work to deliver on their mandate. He added that 2027 politics cannot take the place of governance, as it was too early to start talking about election that is two years ahead.

    Read Also: N/Assembly Clerk Seeks Review of Staff Service Act

    “I am not against anybody and all those are social media skirmishes, I believe everyone must deliver on their mandate,” the governor stated.

    The political space in Cross River has been tensed in recent time following rumours, especially on social media, that the governor was bent on replacing some members of the National Assembly in 2027.

  • Gov Otu: My administration has significantly boosted C’River’s IGR

    Gov Otu: My administration has significantly boosted C’River’s IGR

    By Christian Njoku

    Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has disclosed that his administration has significantly boosted the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

    Otu who made the assertion on Wednesday in Calabar while inaugurating the newly renovated Calabar 1 tax office was represented by Mr Mike Odere, the state’s Commissioner for Finance

    It would be recalled that the Calabar 1 tax office along IBB Way in Calabar had been in a bad shape with a dilapidated building which became worse when a massive wind blew off part of the building’s roof.

    The governor said generating revenue does not stop with collecting taxes from the people but also given the people the dividends of collecting the taxes.

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    The governor who noted that the state’s IGR has increased by 209% in the last 18 months said the feat was achieved not by increasing taxes but because the state became more efficient in tax collection

    “We collect our taxes in a way that will not affect the taxpayers negatively and we have leveraged on technology  to automate all our processes which has reduced income leakages through pilfering.

    Before now, we had a tax office that does not do everything, but today, it is a one-stop-shop,  meaning you can do everything you want as far as tax collection is concerned, in the office,” he said.

    Similarly, Chairman, Cross River IRS, Mr Edwin Okon said in Dec. 2022, the state’s IGR stood at N22 billion but as at Dec. 2024, the present administration in the state had grown the IGR to N46 billion.

    While appreciating the governor for the achievement, Okon called on the staff of the service to ensure that the target given to them for 2025 was surpassed.

    “For 2025 we will surprise the governor, I have told my team that will work to beat the target we were given as an agency, we are also happy that everyone can see what the governor is doing with the tax in the state,” he noted.

    On his part Mr Hilary Bisong, Member representing Boki 2 in the Cross River House of Assembly commended the governor and the Cross River IRS for the developmental strides.

    According to him, in the last few months, the revenue of the state had increased geometrically adding that in 2024 one of the tax offices in the state was renovated in Akamkpa.

    He added that the House will continue to partner with the IRS to harmonise all the taxes in the state while urging the service not to hesitate to call on the House in areas where they desire improvements.

    (NAN)

  • 2027: Assembly members from south endorse gov Otu’s second term bid

    2027: Assembly members from south endorse gov Otu’s second term bid

    …Applaud his developmental strides

    By Kelvin Obambon

    With the 2027 elections on the horizon, members of the Cross River House of Assembly from the southern part of the state had come out to openly declare their support for the incumbent governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for second term.

    Coming under the auspices of Southern Caucus of 10th Cross River State House of Assembly, the lawmakers unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Governor Otu and adopted him as their choice for the 2027 governorship election.

    Chairman of the Caucus and member representing Odukpani State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Francis Bassey Asuquo, who addressed the press alongside his colleagues on Tuesday at the NUJ Press Centre, Calabar, affirmed that the 9 constituencies in the southern senatorial district having noted the governor’s remarkable achievements since assuming office, have decided to support him to continue in his developmental drive.

    “We, the representatives of the nine state constituencies in the Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State-comprising Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Biase, Calabar South 1, Calabar South 2, Calabar Municipal, and Odukpani-hereby pass a vote of confidence on Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, in recognition of his remarkable achievements since assuming office.”

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    The Caucus applauded the developmental strides recorded under Governor Otu’s administration within the space of two years, and highlighted some of them to include economic revitalization and IGR growth, agricultural reforms, infrastructural development, health sector improvements, environmental sustainability, youth development and empowerment, peace and security, among others.

    Additionally, the assembly members commended “the invaluable contributions of the First Lady, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, whose wealth of experience in local government administration, state civil service, federal civil service and strong religious attributes have been brought to bear as a first-hand Adviser to His Excellency. Her initiatives in healthcare and women’s empowerment have indeed complemented the Governors achievements.”

    “In the light of this progress in our dear state, we are left with no option, but to align with the Governor to sustain the tempo and do more.

    “As we work towards 2027 and the dynamics of another elections in our state, we urge every Cross Riverian and residents of our state to please think Cross River and the collective good of the state.

    “No reasonable team will replace its best goal scorer before the end of the match, when he is still in high performance, and the team still in need of more goals.

    “As patriotic and people’s driven Representatives, we hereby pass a vote of confidence on our Governor, Sen Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

    “We declare, unequivocally, that he is our only choice for next term as Governor of Cross River State, to continue from 2027 to 2031.

    “We appeal to every other potential gubernatorial aspirant not to hope on us, but to please decline such aspiration and join forces to support Sen Prince Bassey Edet Otu for a second term.

    “On behalf of our constituents and constituencies, we, individually and collectively, as the 10th Assembly Southern Caucus, hereby call on Sen.
    Prince Bassey Edet Otu to accept, at the right time, to harken to our Clarion call to recontest for the Governorship, come 2027,” they said.

  • Gov Otu Emerges Vice Chairman of South-South Governors’ Forum

    Gov Otu Emerges Vice Chairman of South-South Governors’ Forum

    …As Governors appeal that work should also begin from Calabar axis of Coastal Highway

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has emerged Vice Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum at a meeting held Tuesday 28th January, 2025, in Bayelsa State. The meeting also saw the emergence of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State as Chairman of the Forum.

    Arising from the meeting held in the Government House, Yenagoa, five governors from the region, having deliberated extensively on pressing issues and strategies vital for the unity and development of the region, issued a 10-point communique, while expressing their commitment to collaborative governance that would guarantee the well-being of the people, and advance sustainable development.

    The Forum resolved to:

    “Extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support and commitment that led to the emergence of our esteemed son, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, as President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “Commend Mr. President for the award and commencement of the Coastal Road project and appeal that work should also begin from the Calabar axis. This strategic infrastructure will not only enhance connectivity but also stimulate economic development in the region.

    Read Also: Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    “Thank Mr. President for the on-going work on the East-West Road. The Forum emphasised the need to expedite action towards completion. This will facilitate movement within the Region, noting that it is the major road that links the South-South States.

    “Request the Federal Government to urge relevant Stakeholders/Agencies to extend the remediation of polluted environment on-going in Ogoni land to other impacted communities in the region.

    “Call on the Federal Government to activate the railway line in Port Harcourt and connect other States in the region.

    “Support Mr. President’s Tax Reform Bill. The Forum further urge Mr. President to extend the proposed VAT sharing percentages to other areas of derivation such as Oil and Gas.

    “Forge a collaborative path forward amongst States, emphasising the importance of unity in our collective efforts to achieve shared goals.

    “Establish a robust, structured regional security network, aimed at enhancing safety and security in the South-South. Such a network will be instrumental in fostering a stable environment conducive to economic growth and prosperity.

    “Encourage member States to broaden their economic horizons by diversifying beyond oil and gas.

    “Reinvigorate the BRACED Commission, to better represent the interests and aspirations of communities in our region.”

  • Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    …Says move in the best interest of C’River

    The initiator of the Think Cross River group (TCRG), Edem Darlington has commended the Cross River State governor for his security approach and modern policing initiatives in the State.

    Mr. Darlington made the commendation while speaking with selected journalists in Calabar the state capital.

    According to him, the emergence of governor Bassey Otu has brought peace and tranquility tnot just to the state capital but the entire Cross River.

    His words, “We were all here in this state when kidnappings, arson, ritual killings and all manner of crime were being perpetuated sometimes in broad day light.

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    “At one point, Cross River State was rated as one of the most dangerous places to visit in Nigeria. We moved from being the most peaceful state to one of the most unsafe places in Nigeria.

    “No one was spared, our medical doctors repeatedly kidnapped, a situation that prompted the leadership of the NMA at the time to go on strike each time one of their members were kidnapped.

    “Even water leaf sellers and petty traders were kidnapped and as low as five thousand was collected as ransom. Those were the issues the governor met in ground. But today, the reverse is the case.

    “The governor since assumption of office has had countless security meetings, provided  security officers with modern equipments to fight all forms of crime and criminality in the State. I think the governor deserves commendation for returning our state back to a peaceful and secured place,” Edem noted.

    Mr. Darlington who is also the deputy chief press secretary to the governor, used the opportunity to clear the air regarding the recent cancellation of a cultural parade, Nkot Mbok. Insisting that the cancellation was done in the best interest of the State.

    “No one in the State have access to the level of security information that the governor has. So if intelligence gathering points to the fact that a particular event will lead to chaos were lives and properties could be lost, what a good leader and father will do is to be proactive and nip the issue in immediately. It is my sincere opinion that the government should rather be commended.

    “If you look at the recently released Nigeria security report for 2024, you will realize that Cross River State made significant progress in terms of peace and security stability and that means that we are  gradually taking back our place as the safest and most peaceful state in the country.”

    The Think Cross River initiator used the opportunity to call on young people in the State to continue to pray for the peace of the state as no meaningful development can thrive in an atmosphere of chaos and violence.

  • Governor Otu Launches Initiative to Support Civil Servants Beyond Retirement

    Governor Otu Launches Initiative to Support Civil Servants Beyond Retirement

    Governor Bassey Edet Otu has officially launched the Retiree Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (REDI), a program designed to empower retiring and recently retired civil servants in Cross River State. The initiative, spearheaded by the State’s Medium Micro-Enterprise Development Agency- MEDA, in collaboration with key partners, aims to equip retirees with essential entrepreneurial skills and resources to ensure economic independence and financial stability post-retirement.

    Speaking on the program’s objectives, the Director General of MEDA, Great Ogban, said, “REDI is about empowering our senior citizens to embrace new opportunities and build fulfilling lives after their years of service. By providing them with the necessary skills and resources, we aim to reduce post-retirement poverty and foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

    The REDI program focuses on targeted training in leadership, capacity building, and skill acquisition. It is open to civil servants within three years of retirement as well as those who retired within the past three years. Through this initiative, participants will gain the knowledge and tools required to launch and successfully manage their own businesses, thereby developing self-reliance and financial security.

    “REDI perfectly reflects Governor Otu’s vision of prioritizing the welfare of all Cross Riverians, ensuring a dignified and prosperous retirement for our dedicated civil servants,” noted Obol Innocent Eteng, the Head of Service.

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    Governor Otu has demonstrated undaunted commitment to addressing the welfare of civil servants in the state. Notable achievements of his administration include; allocating ₦10 billion to clear the backlog of gratuities owed to retirees. Implementing promotions for state and local government workers. Increasing salaries to align with the national minimum wage standard.

    These measures, combined with REDI, bolsters Governor Otu’s passion to improving the lives of civil servants, both active and retired, and ensuring their contributions are rewarded with dignity.

    The REDI launch event was attended by prominent government officials, including Elder Obeten Obeten Enang, Director of Administration (Head of Service Office); Martin Unoh, Director of Accounts (Head of Service Office); and Enwongo-Abasi Okon, General Manager of MEDA.

    The initiative has received wide acceptance and commendation as the program is aimed at tackling the challenges of retirement and building sustainable economic development among retirees.

  • C’River Govt accelerates work on Adiabo-Ikoneto road abandoned by FG 33 years ago

    C’River Govt accelerates work on Adiabo-Ikoneto road abandoned by FG 33 years ago

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Work is progressing rapidly on the 10-kilometer Adiabo-Ikoneto road abandoned by the Federal Government 33 years ago. The single carriage road project initiated in 1992 by the late Sani Abacha regime was to halve the travel time from Calabar to Akwa Ibom and also multiply the entry point to the state capital.

    Speaking shortly after an inspection tour of the ongoing project by the Think Cross River Initiative and a team of journalists on Monday, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ankpo Pius, explained that the project was awarded to Zenith Construction Nigeria Limited in 2024.

    He said the 10km road starts from the Tinapa bridge area and would terminate at Ikoneto. According to the Commissioner, the project would include construction of two major bridges and a realignment of the road.

    “The major challenge we have there is the swampy area. The place need to be filled and allow to cure and set. That’s why we don’t have a definite timeline for the completion. It’s a huge project. We have about 4 or 5 kilometer to sand fill to about 3 to 5 meters of depth. The filling there is massive considering the terrain which is watery. In the next three or four months we should be able to complete the filling, and then open the road for motorists to drive on to allow it settle before we bring in laterite and fill it until we get to the level we want.

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    “I want to commend the Governor for this great initiative. This goes a long way to settle the issue of the state having one way in and one way out. This road will be another way to change that narrative. This government is committed to putting quality infrastructure in place for the benefit of Cross Riverians. Upon completion, the project will reduce the travel distance from Calabar to Odukpani by 30 kilometer,” he said.

    Hon. Ankpo disclosed that Prince Otu-led administration since assumption of office has initiated about 100 kilometers of road projects across the state of which 45 to 50 percent have been completed. He noted that the government was working on completing several projects initiated by the previous administration, adding that recently approval has been secured for the construction of flyovers at Mobil-MCC and Effioete Roundabout.

    Commenting on the Adiabo-Ikoneto road project, the initiator of Think Cross River, Mr Edem Darlington, said the road traverses and connects several communities such as Adiabo, Creek Town 1, Creek Town 2 and terminates at Ikoneto.

    He recalled that the road which was supposed to be completed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was abandoned over the years, thus prompting the state government to take up the project as a response to the cries of commuters who ply the deplorable Odukpani-Itu road.

    Darlington who is the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, explained that the Adiabo-Ikoneto road would bypass failed portions of Odukpani-Itu road and thereby shorten the distance between Calabar and Akwa Ibom. He said the agony Cross Riverians were going through as a result of the parlous state of the Odukpani-Itu road cannot be quantified, which is why the governor in his compassionate nature had stepped in to remedy the situation.

    The Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mr Andrea Ekeng Inyang and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Communication, Mr Nathan Otaba, also took part in the tour.

  • Governor Otu Applauded for Boosting Golf Development in Cross River State

    Governor Otu Applauded for Boosting Golf Development in Cross River State

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has been widely celebrated for his impactful contributions to the development of golf in the state, a move seen as a catalyst for sports and tourism growth.

    Lady Anne Ene Ita, Chairperson of the Calabar Golf Club Project Committee, commended the governor’s strategic vision during an event in Calabar. She described golf as not only a recreational activity but also a platform for fostering international relationships and promoting healthy lifestyles. “Governor Otu’s commitment to leveraging golf for both local and global benefits is truly remarkable,” she noted.

    A retired federal permanent secretary and Female Captain of the Calabar Golf Club, Lady Ene Ita assured that the project committee is working diligently to ensure the success of the initiative. “With the strong backing of the state government, we are dedicated to delivering a project of exceptional quality,” she emphasized.

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    Engr. Francis Archibong, the project’s supervising consultant, provided insights into the extensive upgrades taking place. He highlighted key developments, including the near-completion of over 900 meters of perimeter fencing, comprehensive clubhouse renovations featuring new roofing, electrical installations, painting, and the addition of a modern reception area.

    Other improvements include the construction of a state-of-the-art gatehouse, a caddies’ shed, and an upgraded parking facility, all of which are on track to elevate the Calabar Golf Club to a competitive national and international standard.

  • Participants excited as C’River Governor makes surprise appearance at Tinkoriko 2025

    Participants excited as C’River Governor makes surprise appearance at Tinkoriko 2025

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Excitement and cheers rained the air surrounding the entire 11-11 Roundabout, Calabar on New Year Day as Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu made a surprise and symbolic appearance at the 31st edition of Tinkoriko annual parade.

    The governor who was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar,
    Special Adviser Governor’s Office, Mr Edem Bassey, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mr Edem Darlington and other top administration officials, infused enthusiasm into the Tinkoriko procession with the crowd cheering and chanting “Season of Sweetness”, a slogan that resonates among loyalists and supporters of the current administration.

    Addressing the mammoth crowd predominantly made up of youths, Governor Otu promised to prioritize youth employment by creating opportunities for young people to enable them generate sustainable wealth for the overall development of the state.

    He commended Tinkoriko for consistently bringing youths together under a peaceful atmosphere since its founding 31 years ago. He said with the level of joy Tinkoriko gives participants, the platform should be supported and use to promote peace and brotherly love in the society.

    Read Also: We Will Prioritize Job Creation For Our Teeming Youths – Gov Otu

    According to Governor Otu, “For you to sustain this beautiful cultural value for 31 years now is not a minor feat. Most of the calls I get regarding how to be a part of Tinkoriko is usually from those residing outside of this country. That goes to show that Tinkoriko has gone global. It also goes to show how much our people outside have become increasingly interested in the value you represent, which includes speaking out against all manners of social vices.”

    He also promised that Tinkoriko would feature prominently in the next Carnival Calendar so as to strengthen its global appeal.

    Earlier, the founder and patron of Tinkoriko, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, expressed joy over the presence of the state governor at the event, emphasizing that the group’s core values are non-violent approach to issues and the promotion of peaceful co-existence among youths.

    “For the past 31 years, we have been doing this every 1st January of a new year. Our core values are majorly to promote peaceful co-existence among citizens, preach against various social vices in the state as well as promote our beautiful cultural heritage,” Duke said.

    He also used the opportunity to appeal to individuals, groups, corporate organizations and the government to support the sociocultural group by way of financing the purchase and printings on t-shirts worn by participants annually.

    On his part, the president of Tinkoriko, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, disclosed that apart from bringing youths together to forge a bond of unity, the group is actively involve in charity.

    “Every year, the fund we realize we use it to sponsor our indigent members and non-members in the universities and secondary schools. We have been doing this for the past 25 years,” he said.

    The annual Tinkoriko procession usually takes off at Efut by Egerton and passes through major streets like Hawkins, Nelson Mandela, Target, Mary Slessor, Barracks road, 11-11 Roundabout and then back to Efut street.