To further tackle the economic strain, the Governor announced the release of N10 billion for the payment of gratuities to retirees …
By TheInvestigator
In an address marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, delivered a message of hope, resilience, and progress. Speaking to the people of Cross River State, Governor Otu urged perseverance amidst the ongoing economic challenges facing the country, emphasizing that Nigeria is on a steady path of growth as a sovereign and united entity.
In his speech, Governor Otu reflected on Nigeria’s journey since its amalgamation in 1914, noting that the country’s independence should be a time for stock-taking and conscious assessment of the nation’s political and economic strides. While acknowledging the difficulties caused by recent economic reforms, he expressed confidence in the future, stating, “the expected gains of these reforms far outweigh the pains.”
Shifting focus to Cross River State, Governor Otu detailed the substantial progress the state has made under his administration, which began a year ago. He praised the collective will of the people and his government’s efforts to foster political harmony and economic prosperity.
Economic Reforms And Initiatives
Governor Otu highlighted several key initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of the Federal Government’s economic reforms. He revealed that the state’s investments in agriculture have already begun to reduce food prices, with Cross River now ranking as the second-largest cocoa producer in Nigeria. Additionally, mechanization efforts are being implemented to ease the labor burden on farmers.
To further tackle the economic strain, the Governor announced the release of N10 billion for the payment of gratuities to retirees, with the first batch of pensioners soon to receive payments. Governor Otu also addressed the 25-year employment embargo in the state, announcing that 2,500 qualified indigenes are being employed into the state’s civil service.
Infrastructure And Development
In his address, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure across the state. He highlighted ongoing rehabilitation and construction of urban roads, the commencement of the 365km Calabar-Obudu railway project, and the progress made on the Bakassi Deep Seaport and Obudu airport, all aimed at boosting transportation, tourism, and economic growth.
Governor Otu also mentioned his administration’s investment of N1 billion in small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to stimulate economic activity and create jobs. On security, he noted the significant reduction in violent crimes, creating a safer environment for residents and investors alike.
Commitment To Cross River’s Growth
As Cross River State celebrates alongside the rest of the country, Governor Otu called for unity among political actors, urging them to set aside divisive sentiments and work towards the collective development of the state. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to raising the living standards of the people through continued investment in critical sectors and fiscal interventions.
Concluding his address, the Governor assured the people of Cross River that the state’s journey towards greatness is on track. “With my purposeful governance, the State’s greatness is on course; we should therefore not despair over the challenging times we presently find ourselves,” he said.
Governor Otu called for hope, sacrifice, and resilience, reminding the people that his administration remains committed to accountability, empathy, and selfless service in managing the state’s resources.