C/River Gov Swears In New Head Of Service, Assures Retirees of Gratuities

By Musa Kutama, Calabar

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring the glory and pride of the state Civil Service, with a firm assurance to continue offsetting outstanding retirees’ gratuities.

The governor made the pledge on Monday during the swearing-in of a new Head of Service of the state, Barr. Orok Okon, at the Government House in Calabar.

Barr. Orok’s appointment on September 19 followed the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng the previous day, paving the way for the former’s elevation as Head of Service.

Describing the Civil Service as the “superstructure” for implementation of government policies, Governor Otu recalled its golden years when, between 2010 and 2013, no fewer than eight states visited Cross River to understudy its organic structure and operational efficiency. He lamented the decline that followed but assured that his administration is committed to restoring its lost glory.

Governor Otu said “as we reposition the Civil Service, my administration will continue to prioritize workers’ welfare. Monthly salary payment remains sacrosanct, promotions are being implemented as, and when due. The yearly incremental step has been restored after 11 years and, very importantly, we have put plans in place to continue defraying outstanding retirees’ gratuities”.

He further charged the new Head of Service to entrench professionalism, fairness and competence across the workforce, stressing that the importance of proper record-keeping, digitization and continuous staff training, and service delivery must be driven by equity, qualification and due process rather than nepotism or bias.

Responding, Barr. Orok Okon expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to fully implement the Governor’s charge.

“The charge you have given me, both publicly and privately, shall be carried out to the letter with your support, as usual,” he assured.

Okon promised to soon brief the State Executive Council on details of the reform agenda for the Civil Service and pledged close collaboration with Permanent Secretaries and Directors.

While acknowledging that a few challenges remain, he maintained that the service is still largely filled with diligent and hardworking officers who will be supported and rewarded.

“I thank Your Excellency, I thank everyone and I say God bless this administration and God bless Cross River State,” the new Head of Service concluded.