Gov. Otu Repositions Cabinet for Greater Efficiency, Swears in Two Commissioners
By Our Reporter
Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on Monday repositioned his cabinet for greater efficiency with a strategic redeployment of key commissioners and the inauguration of two new members of the State Executive Council, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to effective governance and improved service delivery under the People First agenda.
The cabinet reshuffle and inauguration took place during the State Executive Council meeting held at the Executive Council Chambers, Governor’s Office, Calabar.
As part of the realignment, Hon. Osogi Moses John was redeployed as Commissioner for Water Resources; Dr. Nku Ekpang Erasmus Ekpang became Commissioner for Lands; Mensah Bassey Offiong moved to the Ministry of Environment; Cobham Ekpenyong Ene was assigned to the Ministry of Information and Orientation; Ekpenyong Francis Edet became Commissioner for Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries Development; Kingsley N. Egumi was redeployed to the Ministry of Transport; while Lawrentia Ita Effiong retained her position as Commissioner for Establishment and Pensions, with the Executive Council Secretariat added to her responsibilities.
Governor Otu also inaugurated Mr. Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo as Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations and Chief Obi Afor Ayuk as Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, charging them to bring fresh ideas, innovation and dedication to their new assignments.
Explaining the rationale behind the cabinet realignment, the Governor described the Executive Council as a winning team and said the changes were intended to optimise the strengths of individual commissioners and position government to deliver more effectively on its developmental priorities.
“It is my practice naturally not to change a winning team. We know where Cross River was, where it is today, and where we are headed. Together, we will continue in that passion and on that trajectory,” Otu said.
The Governor stressed that performance in public office is determined by the quality of one’s contribution rather than the length of time spent in office.
“It is not how long you stay in the cabinet; it is your contributions within the shortest possible time,” he stated, adding that the adjustments would inject fresh momentum into the administration as it pursues its development targets.
Governor Otu urged members of the Executive Council to remain focused on governance despite political distractions, insisting that the welfare of Cross River people must remain the administration’s overriding priority.
“We have a focus and we have to achieve our targets. I am very proud of all of you. Please don’t be distracted. Let us stand for the truth and what is right. This is the People First Government,” he said.
He also directed commissioners affected by the reshuffle to ensure seamless handover of official documents, government assets and ongoing projects, emphasizing accountability, continuity and the proper management of sensitive government records. He reminded them that the approach of the election season should not diminish the pace of governance or service delivery.
Governor Otu expressed confidence that the cabinet realignment and the addition of the two new commissioners would further strengthen the capacity of his administration to consolidate its achievements and deliver lasting dividends of democracy. He also appreciated the Speaker and members of the Cross River State House of Assembly for their continued support and cooperation in advancing sustainable development across the state.
