By Sylvia Akpan
The Cross River State House of Assembly has confirmed the nomination of Mr. Ayuk Obi Afor as Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture and a member of the State Executive Council.
The confirmation followed the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution, which screened the nominee and found him qualified for the position.
Presenting the committee’s report during plenary session June 24, 2026, the Chairman of the committee, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta (Abi State Constituency), said Mr. Afor possesses the requisite qualifications, experience, and competence to serve effectively as a member of the State Executive Council.
Lawmakers who contributed to the debate described the nominee as experienced, competent and well-equipped to drive the state’s tourism, arts and culture agenda, expressing confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully to the development of Cross River State.
Following deliberations, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, put the committee’s recommendation to a voice vote, which received overwhelming support from members.
The Speaker commended Governor Bassey Otu for appointing a replacement from the constituency of the late Hon. Abubakar Ewa, who served as Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture until his death on January 8, 2025.
Thereafter, the House formally confirmed Mr. Afor’s appointment following a motion moved by Hon. Martins Achadu (Yala II) and seconded by Hon. Mercy Mbang Akpama (Yakurr II). The Speaker directed the Clerk of the House to communicate the resolution to Governor Bassey Otu for the necessary action.
Speaking after his confirmation, Mr. Afor expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for the confidence reposed in him and thanked members of the House for approving his nomination.
He pledged to serve with diligence, transparency and accountability while contributing to the effective implementation of the administration’s policies and programmes in the tourism, arts and culture sector.
Governor Otu’s nomination of Mr. Ayuk Obi Afor was made pursuant to Section 192(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to fill the vacancy created by the death of the late Hon. Abubakar Ewa who passed on on 8th January, 2025.
Short Link:
Leave feedback about this