Over 200 primary health centers across the state were earmarked for rehabilitation
By EkpenyongAnwan Eyo
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Published on August 21, 2026
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4 min read
When Senator Bassey Otu took the oath in Calabar in May 2023, Cross River needed a government that would restore hope, rebuild trust, and deliver services to the people. Three years later, that promise has been met with deliberate action and measurable results. Under the “People First” agenda, this administration has set the state on a clear path of progress, stability, and renewed confidence.
Infrastructure that connects people and opportunities
Governor Otu chose to prioritize infrastructure that directly improves the lives of citizens. The rehabilitation of the Calabar-Itu highway, the ongoing dualization of key intra-city roads in Calabar, and the rural road projects in Ogoja, Ikom, and Obubra have significantly reduced travel time and transportation costs. Farmers can move produce to market faster, students can get to school safer, and businesses can operate with greater ease.
In Calabar, the restoration of streetlights and drainage on major arteries has brought renewed order and safety to the city, especially at night. The Tinapa Business Resort, once dormant, has been revived through a strategic concession model. Private operators have returned, warehouses are occupied, and small businesses are thriving again. This is a clear signal that Cross River is open for business.
Health and human capital development
The health sector has witnessed remarkable transformation. Over 200 primary health centers across the state were earmarked for rehabilitation, with renewed focus on staffing, equipment, and drug availability. This has brought quality healthcare closer to the grassroots.
The expansion of the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme and the mass enrollment of civil servants have pulled thousands of families into formal healthcare coverage for the first time. This is healthcare with dignity.
In education, the administration strengthened the foundation. Teacher recruitment resumed after a long freeze, ensuring our classrooms are better staffed. The free tuition policy for primary and secondary schools was sustained, and the state began paying UBEC counterpart funds that had been left unclaimed. These investments are producing classrooms with better teacher-pupil ratios and giving every Cross River child a stronger start.
Economic growth and revenue expansion
Faced with fiscal challenges, Governor Otu chose discipline and innovation. The administration blocked revenue leakages through a treasury single account audit and automated the IRS, which has led to a steady increase in IGR without placing extra burden on citizens.
Agriculture was placed at the center of economic revival. The state’s cocoa estates were leased to private investors with clear output targets, and farmers received inputs through strategic partnerships with the CBN and federal programs. This has repositioned Cross River as a serious player in agribusiness.
Tourism also received a boost. The Calabar Carnival brand was revived and delivered more efficiently, while new cultural festivals were introduced across the northern and central senatorial districts. This strategy is spreading economic opportunities and showcasing the rich heritage of our people to the world.
Security, workers’ welfare, and good governance
In border communities like Boki, Obanliku, and Bakassi, the administration established dialogue committees and strengthened collaboration between local vigilante groups and security agencies. The result has been greater peace and a reduction in communal tensions.
Within government, the payment of salaries and pensions on the 25th of every month has restored dignity and confidence among workers and retirees. After years of uncertainty, civil servants can now plan their lives knowing the government will keep its word.
Governor Otu’s leadership style has also brought government closer to the people. From town hall engagements to consultations with traditional rulers, youth groups, and investors, this administration has proven that governance works best when it listens.
The verdict so far
Three years into office, Governor Bassey Otu’s legacy is already taking shape. It is a legacy of restored basic services, revived infrastructure, stronger institutions, and a government that puts people first in both policy and practice.
Roads are being fixed. Clinics are being equipped. Schools are being staffed. Salaries are being paid on time. Businesses are returning. Communities are experiencing peace.
This is what purposeful leadership looks like. It is not about one big project. It is about many right decisions, made consistently, for the good of the people.
Cross River has moved from drift to direction. Under Governor Bassey Otu, the foundation has been laid, and the future looks brighter for every Cross Riverian.
Ekpenyonganwan Eyo is the Special Assistant to the Chairman of Calabar South L.G.A on Community Relations.
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