On October 3, 2024, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu officially inaugurated 27 new permanent secretaries into the state’s civil service. Speaking at the ceremony held in Calabar, Otu underscored the importance of enhancing efficiency and productivity within the public sector, highlighting the significant responsibilities these positions entail in fostering innovative solutions.
Otu expressed pride in the increased representation of women among the new permanent secretaries, emphasizing that this development reflects a commitment to inclusivity and progress. He urged the officials to take ownership of their roles as both financial overseers and administrative leaders of their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), stressing that evading responsibility will no longer be acceptable.
“It’s crucial to identify and eliminate any practices that impede progress,” he asserted. He extended his congratulations to the newly appointed officials, wishing them wisdom and success in their endeavors to serve the people effectively.
The Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Enoh, echoed the governor’s sentiments, describing the appointments as a well-deserved acknowledgment of hard work and dedication, marking a track record of excellence.
In response, Dr. Jonah Offor, speaking on behalf of the new permanent secretaries, pledged their unwavering commitment to driving progress in their respective MDAs, vowing to work diligently for the betterment of Cross River State.