Asuquo Cletus
The Cross River State Government has held a consultative forum with citizens, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders as part of efforts to ensure that the 2026 budget reflects the priorities and aspirations of the people.
The town hall meeting, organised by the Department of Budget, Monitoring and Evaluation, is aimed at deepening citizen participation in governance as well as strengthen accountability.
Speaking yesterday at Transcop hotel in Calabar, venue of the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget, Monitoring and Evaluation, Otu Ita in his opening remark described the forum as a practical demonstration of Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to transparency, inclusion, and community engagement in the budgeting process.
“It is with a great sense of responsibility that I welcome you to this very important 2026 budget consultation,” Ita said. “Let me begin by thanking His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, for inspiring transparency, inclusion, and selfless participation in the governance process. This forum is a testament to that commitment.”
He explained that similar meetings had earlier been held in Ogoja and Ikom, to allow citizens across the three senatorial districts to contribute to the 2026 fiscal plan. According to him, the goal was to create a people-centred budget driven by grassroots realities.
“Every voice in this room matters,” Ita emphasized. “Whether you are a community leader, a businesswoman, a civil society advocate, a labour unionist, or an ordinary citizen your insight is critical in shaping a budget that reflects the real needs and priorities of our people.”
He noted that the 2026 budget would focus on inclusive economic growth and social mobility, adding that government intends to empower citizens through policies that promote equal opportunities, enterprise, and human development.
Addressing different groups, Ita said the administration values the contributions of traditional rulers, describing them as custodians of community wisdom and stability. He also hailed market women as “the heartbeat of the state’s economy,” urging them to speak freely on issues relating to levies, access to credit, and infrastructure.
“To our civil society organisations and NGOs, you bring data, advocacy, and frontline experience. You speak for those who cannot speak for themselves,” he said. “As a government, we are committed to open budgeting. We encourage everyone to track the expenditure and activities of the Cross River State Government. Governor Otu wants a government that is fully accountable to the people.”
Ita further revealed that the administration would publish not only the final approved 2026 budget by December but also quarterly expenditure reports, in order to promote transparency and public trust.
He concluded by calling on all participants to view the forum as a platform for collaboration rather than complaint.
“The future of our children, our communities, and our state depends on the decisions and contributions we make today,” he said. “Let this forum be a true reflection of participatory governance. Let our voices rise not in complaining, but in contribution. Together, we can build a Cross River State we will all be proud of.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Okon Owuna, said the 2026 budget would prioritise infrastructure, education, agriculture, women’s empowerment, and youth development. He urged citizens to take ownership of the process to ensure that government policies meet their real needs.
Echoing similar sentiments, The Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council and Paramount Ruler of Abi Local Government Area, Edward Osim, commended the governor for engaging the grassroots in governance. He appealed for greater collaboration between government and the traditional institution, noting that “traditional rulers remain the first point of contact with the people.”
Highlight of the event was the presentation of sectoral concerns and recommendations from
market women, retired civil servants, youth leaders, as well as persons with disabilities.
