Asuquo Cletus, Calabar
Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State, has reaffirmed his commitment to driving growth and development in the state.
The Governor made the commitment on Monday at the executive council chambers of the Governor’s office, while signing into law the 2025 Local Government Amendment Bill.
The new law is designed to fast-track economic development, and enhance service delivery at the local level.
Key amendments include the expansion of departments from 7 to 12, financial reforms, and the entrustment of additional responsibilities to Vice Chairmen of Councils.
Specifically, the amended law provides for the readjustment of percentages of funds allocated to key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.
It also entrusts Vice Chairmen of Councils with responsibilities such as humanitarian affairs, peace and conflict resolution, border and boundary issues, and sports development.
Other key provisions include the strengthening of the offices of the Secretary of Council and the Clerk of the Legislative Council with additional staff.
Additionally, the law provides for statutory appointments of not more than 50 persons and the appointment of Ward Relations Officers with the status of Special Assistants for each Council Ward.
Present at the signing was the speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, RT Hon Elvert Ayabem, Members of the State House of Assembly and other senior government officials.
