Month: July 2026

Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has inaugurated two new Commissioners into the Cross River State Executive Council and approved a strategic reshuffle of portfolios to strengthen governance and accelerate the delivery of his administration’s People First agenda.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Government House in Calabar, saw the inauguration of Ayuk Obi Afor as Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo as Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Otu said the appointments and portfolio realignments were carefully designed to enhance efficiency, optimise performance, and improve service delivery across key sectors of government.

The Governor also announced the redeployment of six Commissioners to new ministries as part of the restructuring.

Under the new arrangement, Anom Emmanuel Moses moves from the Ministry of Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries Development to the Ministry of Human Capital Development, while Ekpang Erasmus Ekpang has been redeployed from the Ministry of Information and Orientation to the Ministry of Lands.

Similarly, Cobham Ekpenyong Ene moves from the Ministry of Transport to the Ministry of Information and Orientation, while Mensah Bassey Offiong has been reassigned from the Ministry of Water Resources to the Ministry of Environment.

Also affected by the reshuffle are Kingsley N. Egumi, who moves from Human Capital Development to the Ministry of Transport, and Ekpenyong Francis Edet, who has been redeployed from the Ministry of Lands to the Ministry of Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries Development.

Governor Otu explained that the changes align the experience and expertise of members of the Executive Council with the priorities of his administration as it intensifies efforts to deliver sustainable development across the state.

He congratulated the newly inaugurated Commissioners and those assigned to new portfolios, urging them to remain focused, innovative, and committed to achieving measurable results for the people of Cross River State.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to build a stronger and more prosperous state, stressing that every member of the Executive Council must remain dedicated to ensuring that citizens continue to enjoy the dividends of good governance under the People First agenda.

The Cross River State House of Assembly has confirmed Mr. Dodeye Arikpo from Yakurr LGA as Commissioner following his nomination by Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

Mr. Arikpo, who was appointed by the Governor on July 25, 2026, was presented to the House for confirmation through a letter transmitted by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh.

During plenary, lawmakers described the nominee as a seasoned administrator, experienced security professional, and team player with an impressive record of public service. They noted that he had previously served as Chief Security Officer to former Governor Liyel Imoke and had also held strategic national security assignments, earning a reputation for competence and professionalism.

Following his screening and deliberations by the House, a motion for his confirmation was moved by the Member representing Abi State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, and seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jnr.

Announcing the House’s decision, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, congratulated the commissioner-designate and charged him to justify the confidence reposed in him by Governor Otu and the people of Cross River State.

The Speaker urged Mr. Arikpo to build cordial working relationships with relevant stakeholders, discharge his responsibilities with diligence and integrity, and contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and development of the state.

With the confirmation by the House, Mr. Dodeye Arikpo is expected to be sworn in today by Governor Bassey Otu as a replacement for Hon Oden Ewa who is now a senatorial candidate (Central CRS), to assume office as Commissioner for Special Duties immediately.

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The Member representing Akamkpa I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Okon Owuna, has described the surprise birthday celebration organised for the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, by his aides, Assembly staff, and political associates as the first of its kind in the history of the Cross River State House of Assembly.

Speaking during the celebration at the Speaker’s residence, Hon. Owuna said that, to the best of his knowledge, no Speaker from the First to the Tenth Assembly had ever received such a remarkable demonstration of love and solidarity from the Assembly family.

“I believe that from the First to the Tenth Assembly, no Speaker has been celebrated in this manner by the Assembly. This speaks volumes about the relationship Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has built with his aides, staff, and political associates through his humility, accessibility, and people-oriented leadership,” Owuna said.

He noted that the unprecedented celebration was a reflection of the Speaker’s leadership style, humility, and the genuine affection he has earned from those who work closely with him.

According to the lawmaker, the outpouring of goodwill was not orchestrated but was a spontaneous expression of appreciation for a leader who has remained approachable, supportive, and committed to the welfare of both lawmakers and Assembly staff.

The surprise birthday celebration attracted aides, Assembly staff, political associates including the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Chief Emmanuel Ironbar, Assembly members and candidates,  APC chapter chairmen, friends, and well-wishers, who offered prayers, goodwill messages, birthday gifts, and heartfelt tributes in honour of the Speaker.

The event featured cutting of the birthday cake, goodwill messages, prayers and worship songs, and a continued commitment by attendees to keep on supporting the Speaker as he provides leadership to the Tenth Cross River State House of Assembly.

The Cross River State Government has extended the suspension of all scrap-related activities across the state by an additional one month as part of efforts to curb vandalism, protect public infrastructure, and strengthen security.

The extension was announced in a press release dated July 23, 2026, and signed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ededem Charles Ani.

According to the statement, the suspension, which was initially approved by Governor Bassey Edet Otu and announced on February 23, 2026, will now remain in force until August 23, 2026.

The government explained that the extension became necessary due to the continued review of the legal, policy, and regulatory framework governing scrap-related activities in the state.

It noted that the exercise is aimed at strengthening the regulatory system, protecting legitimate operators, and preventing criminal elements from infiltrating the scrap business.

The government reiterated that the original suspension was prompted by increasing cases of vandalism, theft, and the destruction of public infrastructure allegedly carried out by scavengers, scrap dealers, and their agents, which posed significant security concerns.

While expressing regret over the inconvenience the decision may cause to legitimate businesses and law-abiding operators, the government maintained that safeguarding public infrastructure, preserving public order, and ensuring the security of lives and property remain paramount.

The statement further warned that the suspension remains fully in effect and that any individual or organisation found engaging in scrap-related activities in violation of the directive would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has felicitated the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, on the occasion of his 47th birthday, describing him as an exceptional parliamentarian, visionary leader, and steadfast patriot whose contributions have continued to enrich the state’s democratic journey and legislative development.

In a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, on Tuesday, Governor Otu extolled Ayambem’s exemplary leadership of the Ninth Cross River State House of Assembly, noting that his calm disposition, political maturity, and commitment to consensus-building have strengthened the cordial relationship between the Executive and the Legislature, thereby deepening democratic governance in the state.

The Governor said the Speaker’s tenure has been distinguished by legislative excellence, uncommon wisdom, and a dedication to the collective aspirations of the people of Cross River State, adding that his ability to place public interest above personal considerations has earned him widespread admiration and respect.

“As you celebrate your 47th birthday, I heartily rejoice with you and salute your remarkable journey of service, sacrifice and purposeful leadership. Your stewardship of the Cross River State House of Assembly has remained a shining testament to the ideals of responsible leadership, legislative diligence and patriotic commitment,” Governor Otu stated.

He further remarked: “Your calm temperament, legislative depth and uncommon ability to inspire confidence while fostering unity have significantly enhanced the quality of governance in our dear state. You have demonstrated that true leadership is measured not by the exercise of power, but by the capacity to build bridges, nurture institutions and place the welfare of the people above every other consideration.”

Governor Otu observed that the Speaker’s enduring commitment to democratic values has contributed immensely to the successful implementation of his administration’s People First agenda, stressing that the synergy between both arms of government has accelerated the delivery of impactful policies and programmes for the benefit of Cross Riverians.

The Governor prayed that Almighty God would continue to preserve Ayambem in good health, grant him greater wisdom, renewed strength and abundant grace to continue serving the state with distinction. “As you mark this memorable milestone, may the Almighty crown your years with enduring peace, robust health, greater accomplishments and divine favour. May your path continue to shine ever brighter as you render even greater service to our beloved state and humanity,” he added.

Governor Otu joined the Speaker’s family, friends, political associates, members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, and the people of the state in celebrating the milestone, expressing confidence that Rt. Hon. Ayambem’s best years of leadership and service still lie ahead. He wished the Speaker a joyful 47th birthday and many more years of fruitful, impactful and exemplary service to Cross River State and the nation.

The Cross River State House of Assembly has passed for second reading a bill seeking to prohibit same-sex marriage and civil unions in the state.

The proposed legislation, titled “A Bill for a Law to Prohibit Contract of Marriage or Civil Union Entered into Between Persons of Same Sex, Solemnization of Same, Whether Cultural or in Accordance with Any Statute in Existence, and for Matters Connected Therewith, 2026,” was considered during plenary on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Sponsored by the Member representing Boki II State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Hilary Ekpang Bisong, and co-sponsored by ten lawmakers, the bill seeks to prohibit the recognition and solemnization of same-sex marriages and civil unions in Cross River State, including those contracted outside the state or outside Nigeria.

The proposed law also provides that only marriages between a man and a woman shall be recognised as valid in the state. It further proposes penalties for individuals who contract, facilitate, promote, or aid same-sex unions.

Leading debate on the bill, lawmakers unanimously supported its general principles, describing it as a measure aimed at preserving the cultural, moral, and family values of the people of Cross River State.

Speaking during plenary, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the legislature has both a constitutional and moral responsibility to protect the institution of marriage as recognised under the laws, customs, and traditions of the state.

He maintained that marriage remains a union between a man and a woman and affirmed that the Assembly would not support practices it considers inconsistent with the state’s cultural and religious values.

“As representatives of the people, we have a duty to preserve the moral fabric of our society and enact laws that reflect the collective values of our citizens. Cross River State has always upheld marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and this House will continue to defend that position,” the Speaker stated.

Following the successful second reading, the bill is expected to proceed to the committee stage for further legislative consideration before returning to the House for a third reading and possible passage into law.