Cross River State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, has reiterated his commitment to restoring the pride of the state’s civil service, with firm assurances to continue offsetting retirees’ outstanding gratuities.

He gave the pledge on Monday while swearing in the new Head of Service, Barr. Orok Okon, at Government House, Calabar. Okon’s appointment followed the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng on September 18.

Governor Otu described the civil service as the “superstructure” for implementing government policies and recalled its golden era between 2010 and 2013 when it served as a model for eight visiting states. He lamented its decline but promised reforms to restore efficiency.

Describing the Civil Service as the “superstructure” for implementing 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 was committed to restoring its lost glory.

“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 eleven years, and, very importantly, we have put plans in place to continue defraying outstanding retirees’ gratuities,” the Governor stated.

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

In his response, 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 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.