Governor Inducts Permanent Secretaries to Rejig Cross River Civil Service 

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has sworn in 27 new permanent secretaries.

This comes as the governor is determined to bolster the State’s Civil Service reforms.

The inauguration ceremony for the new permanent secretaries was held at the temporary Governor’s office in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.

In a charge to the permanent secretaries, the governor urged the top civil servants to maintain quality service, high efficiency and productivity.

Otu, who acknowledged the deliberate move of his administration for gender equity, stated, “It is truly commendable to witness a greater representation of women in the role of Permanent Secretary today, which speaks volumes.

“I emphasise that this position carries significant responsibilities of fostering innovative ideas within the service. As both the financial overseer and administrative leader of your respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, MDAs, passing the buck will no longer be tolerated,” he firmly stated.

Continuing, Governor Otu said, “it is imperative that you identify and eliminate any detrimental practices hindering progress. This appointment aligns with our objective of an administration centered on the welfare of the people.”

Selection Process

Speaking further on the selection process, the governor hinted, “while many directors may be qualified for the role of permanent secretary, the selection process was based on the existing vacancies within the MDAs. This underscores the pivotal role each individual plays in this setting.”

Otu reiterated that his administration would not condone below average performance, stressing “subpar performance may result in repercussions. Thus, I urge you to meet the high expectations set by the government and the populace.”

He urged the newly sworn-in top civil servants to bring their wealth of experience to bear in their assigned portfolios.

Responding on behalf of the 27 permanent secretaries, Dr. Jonah Offor pledged to exert their utmost efforts within their respective MDAs to propel the state towards progress.

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, described the appointments as a “recognition of hard work and consistent dedication to service, signifying a proven track record of excellence.”

The 27 newly inducted permanent secretaries include Bassey Onoyom Bassey, Offiong Ani Offiong, Joseph Odey, Okorn Ayang Oyira, Helen Oyem Bessong, Paul Bepeh, Rita Eteng, Eyo Offiong, Gold Nta and Caroline Edet, Balinwo Ofegobi, Dr. Jonah Offor, Glory Odu-Oji as well as Ekpenyong Esuabana.

Others are Eyibio Ndem, Philomena Nyiam, Francis Oyije, Gabriel Ukwada, Okon Ita, Dr. Eke Okon, Gertrude Odu, Jacqueline Akpanke and Lucy Enakirerhi, Ettah Eyo, Tony Effiom, Mr. John Odu, and Mr. Patrick Edi.

Confidence Okwuchi