By Patrick Abang, Calabar
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has commissioned the Local Government Service Commission and the Digitalized Governor office including the First Lady Office renovated in the last two years.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Governor Otu said his administration will not judge the past but rather focused on completing all abandoned projects.
This is a smart office that delivers services for the 21s century, Governor Otu’ said while commissioning the renovated and digitized office.
Also while commissioning the Local Government Complex Governor called for renewed discipline, accountability, and productivity within the state’s local government system as he commissioned the newly completed Local Government Service Commission Complex in Calabar.
The project, which was originally initiated over a decade ago during the administration of former Governor Liyel Imoke, resumed in 2023 and has now been completed and commissioned within two years of Governor Otu’s tenure.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Otu reiterated that no project would be abandoned under his administration. He revealed that his government has already completed about 40 percent of previously abandoned projects and continues to lay a strong foundation for economic growth across the state.
The Governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of workers while sanitizing the public service. He charged civil servants to reciprocate the government’s investment by promoting efficiency and eliminating systemic issues such as the proliferation of ghost workers.
“We will continue to play our part as a responsible government,” Governor Otu affirmed. “But we also expect you, the workforce, to rise to the occasion. Let our efforts motivate you to be more committed and productive. We are working toward ensuring that gratuities are paid within one week of retirement, but the persistent issue of ghost workers continues to hinder our progress.”
Governor Otu described the Local Government Service Commission as one of the most neglected institutions in the state and stated that its rehabilitation is part of a broader initiative to revitalize abandoned government infrastructure across the State.
Representing the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Felix Idem, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Caro Asikpo, commended the project, describing the new complex as a beacon of institutional revival and a reflection of purposeful leadership.
“This facility is more than just a building; it is a powerful symbol of the administration’s determination to restore excellence and integrity to the civil service,” she said. “It represents hope, aspiration, and a call to duty.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Darlington Bassey, lauded the Governor for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to institutional development.
As a mark of deep respect, Governor Bassey Otu bestowed the honour of cutting the commissioning tape on elder statesman and former Military Administrator of Kwara State, Col. PAM Ogar (Rtd.), thereby completing the official unveiling of the complex.