By Asuquo Cletus
The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has called on the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria to play a more proactive role in promoting financial accountability and discipline in both public and private sectors, describing the institute as a critical partner in the state’s development efforts.
Speaking through the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, who represented him at the investiture ceremony of Glory Tony Effiong as the 13th Chairman of the ICAN Calabar and District Society, Governor Otu emphasized that collaboration with professional bodies like ICAN is essential for building a transparent and accountable governance structure.
The investiture, held at the Calabar International Conference Centre yesterday attracted dignitaries from the financial, academic, and government sectors. It marked a significant milestone not only in Mrs. Effiong’s distinguished career but also in the state’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving its financial architecture.
In his address, Governor Otu lauded Mrs. Effiong, the current Accountant General of Cross River State, for her transformative impact on the state’s financial system.
He commended her for streamlining and remodeling the internal financial management framework, which has led to a marked increase in Internally Generated Revenue and enhanced budgetary transparency.
“She has cleaned it up, making it more efficient and transparent,” the Governor’s message read. “Her becoming ICAN Chairman is not a surprise, but rather a call for more work.”
Otu noted that the investiture of a serving Accountant General into such a prestigious position underscored the level of trust and professional excellence she has demonstrated.
He charged her to leverage the position to push for stronger adherence to ethical standards in both the public and private sectors.
“Your investiture is a well-deserved recognition of your dedication and professional excellence. We are confident that you will lead with wisdom, humility, and strength — qualities that have defined your service as Accountant General,” he stated.
Governor Otu used the opportunity to urge ICAN to continue championing reforms that enhance institutional trust, fiscal responsibility, and value-driven governance. He acknowledged the institute’s longstanding contributions to national development and reiterated the state government’s commitment to upholding accountability under the People First agenda.
“As a government, we recognize and appreciate the role of ICAN in building a transparent and stable financial system. Accountants are central to good governance,” the Governor said.
In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Effiong pledged to use her tenure as ICAN Chairman to strengthen the professional development of accountants in the region and to advocate for reforms that promote transparency and ethical financial management across sectors.
“I am deeply honored by this responsibility and remain committed to the ideals of accountability, excellence, and service. Together with my colleagues, we will continue to uphold the values that define ICAN,” she said.
The event also featured goodwill messages from ICAN national executives, accounting professionals, and representatives of key institutions, all of whom praised Mrs. Effiong for her remarkable professional journey and her unwavering commitment to public service.
