Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu yesterday swore in 31 commissioners to head ministries.
Assisted by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh and Head of Service, Mr. Ogbang Akwaji, the governor handed over his administration’s policy templates and timelines as they concerned the ministries, to the commissioners.
“We want excellent results and I urge you to be focused. No one follows the template handed over to you that will fail. Expectations are high. We have put some foundations on the ground already. We are not bordered about the 100 days in office, which is just by the corner. What is more important is laying a good foundation,” the governor said.
He spoke about the status of the state finances, saying Cross River is owing over N400billion, “but this should not be a deterrent, the story will soon change. Investors are coming soon.”
Otu also spoke about his vision for the management of the state’s rich forest reserve and agricultural endowment.
He said his administration recently lifted the ban on logging and expected that going forward, there would be proper management of the state’s forest.
“Logging has to be legally done and upon every single tree logged, 10 trees must be planted in replacement,” Sen. Otu said.
The governor also swore in two special advisers, namely Special Adviser Budget and Special Adviser Due Process.
Responding on behalf of the new appointees, Education Commissioner Mr. Stephen Odey thanked the governor for the privilege given to them.
He assured him of 100 per cent loyalty and commitment to the responsibilities.
The swearing-in was witnessed by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, House of Assembly Speaker Elvert Ayambem, Chief Judge Justice Akon Ikpembe, Chief of Staff to the Governor Mr. Emmanuel Ironbar and other dignitaries.
