Governor Bassey Otu has sworn in two new commissioners and announced a cabinet reshuffle as part of efforts to strengthen governance and improve service delivery across Cross River State. The inauguration took place at the Executive Council Chamber in Calabar after the nominees were screened and confirmed by the Cross River State House of Assembly.
The two newly inaugurated commissioners are Mr. Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo, who was assigned to the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, and Mr. Ayuk Obi Afor, who was appointed Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture. Their appointments fill key positions in Governor Otu's administration as it enters the next phase of implementing its People First agenda.
The governor also announced a minor reshuffle affecting some members of the State Executive Council. As part of the changes, Hon. Erasmus Ekpang was redeployed from the Ministry of Information to the Ministry of Lands, while Pastor Ekpenyong Ene Cobham, who previously served as Commissioner for Transportation, was moved to head the Ministry of Information.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Otu said the appointments and redeployments were carefully considered and should not be viewed as rewards or punishments. According to him, the objective is to place the right people in positions where they can perform effectively and contribute more to the development of Cross River State.
The governor reminded members of the Executive Council that government is about service to the people and not personal interests. He urged the newly appointed commissioners and those who were reassigned to bring fresh ideas, dedication and integrity to their ministries, stressing that Cross Riverians expect visible results from every sector of government.
Governor Otu noted that his administration has moved beyond making promises and is now focused on delivering projects that will directly improve the lives of the people. He said roads, schools, hospitals, housing, tourism, agriculture and job creation remain major priorities, adding that every commissioner must work hard to ensure government policies translate into real benefits for citizens.
Addressing the new Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, the governor emphasized the enormous tourism potential of Cross River State. He called for renewed efforts to promote the state's rich cultural heritage, festivals and tourist attractions in order to attract more visitors, create jobs and boost internally generated revenue.
Governor Otu also urged the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations to strengthen collaboration between the state government, federal agencies, local governments and development partners. He said stronger partnerships would help accelerate the delivery of infrastructure and social programmes across the state.
The governor further warned commissioners against complacency, reminding them that the people of Cross River would judge the administration by its performance rather than promises. He encouraged members of the Executive Council to work together as one team, avoid unnecessary rivalry and remain focused on delivering quality service to the people.
Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated commissioners, Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo and Ayuk Obi Afor expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for the confidence reposed in them. They pledged to justify the trust placed in them by working diligently and supporting the governor's vision of transforming Cross River State through the People First agenda.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, political leaders, traditional rulers, family members and supporters, who congratulated the new commissioners and wished them success in their new responsibilities.
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