By Kelvin Ololo
The Cross River State Executive Council (SEC) has unveiled an expansive package of reforms and infrastructure commitments, approving ₦339.9 million for students’ examination registration, endorsing major road projects, and advancing strategic economic and public service initiatives aimed at repositioning the state in 2026.
The approvals were reached at the Council’s first meeting of the year, held March 18 at the Executive Council Chamber in Calabar and presided over by Governor Bassey Otu, alongside Deputy Governor Peter Odey and other senior officials.
A key highlight is the approval of ₦339,903,000 to register 12,589 indigenous candidates for the 2026 examinations conducted by the West African Examinations Council, a move expected to reduce financial pressure on families while expanding access to education.
In a parallel push to strengthen infrastructure, the Council approved the construction and rehabilitation of critical road networks spanning Ikom, Obudu, Odukpani, Obanliku, Bekwarra, Abi, Etung, Bakassi, and Calabar South. Priority works include emergency repairs along the Ikom–Obudu corridor, intervention on Oban-Ekang Road, new road construction in Akpabuyo, and rehabilitation within the Calabar metropolis.
Beyond roads, the Council okayed key capital projects, including the construction of a Nigerian Air Force hanger/ apron at Margaret Ekpo International Airport, as well as urgent channelization works in flood-prone areas such as Parliamentary Extension, Jonathan Bypass, and Ikot Ansa.
A major economic milestone is the ratification of the engagement of Singapore Cooperation Enterprise to develop a comprehensive framework and master plan for the proposed Bakassi Port City, an initiative seen as pivotal to unlocking maritime trade and investment potential in the state.
On governance and institutional reform, the Council approved the institutionalization of a Staff Performance Management Framework and Service Contract System across the public service, alongside the upgrade of the Cross River State Management Development Institute into a Public Service Development Academy to strengthen capacity building and administrative efficiency.
Further approvals include the ratification of a newly crafted State Civil Service Song, additional furnishings for the Presidential Lodge, and the release of ₦790,062,259 for hosting obligations and preparatory works at the Calabar International Convention Center ahead of AFSNET 2026.
On the legislative front, several executive bills were cleared for transmission to the State House of Assembly, covering pension reforms, taxes and levies, revenue administration, consumer protection amendments, and the establishment of a Tree Crops Development Agency.
The Council also ratified a Public-Private Partnership arrangement to revitalize the Cross River State Water Board Limited, targeting improved water supply and service delivery statewide.
Speaking at the meeting, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and economic expansion, urging political appointees to intensify efforts in attracting investment and boosting internally generated revenue.
He disclosed that additional appointments are underway to broaden participation in governance.
As the administration nears its third anniversary, heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have been directed to submit performance reports by May 1, 2026. The governor also ordered all political appointees seeking to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 26, 2026, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act.
The resolutions, as communicated by Commissioner for Information Erasmus Ekpang, underscore a coordinated push toward infrastructure renewal, education support, economic diversification, and institutional reform under the administration’s “People First” agenda.
Since You Are Here, Support Good JournalismCrossRiverWatch was founded on the ideals of deploying tech tools to report in an ethical manner, news, views and analysis with a narrative that ensures transparency in governance, a good society and an accountable democracy. Everyone appreciates good journalism but it costs a lot of money. Nonetheless, it cannot be sacrificed on the altar of news commercialization. Consider making a modest contribution to support CrossRiverWatch's journalism of credibility and integrity in order to ensure that all have continuous free access to our noble endeavor. CLICK HERE |
New Feature: Don't miss any of our news again.Get all our articles in your facebook chat box.Click the Facebook Messenger Icon below to subscribe now
Text Advert by CRWatch :Place Yours
Will You To Learn How To Make Millions Of Naira Making Special Creams From Your Kitchen?.Click Here
Expose Your Business And Make More Sales. Advertise On CrossRiverWatch.com Today
Leave feedback about this