Moved by the deplorable state of the Governor’s Office, the Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, has disclosed his resolve to immediately renovate the complex and turn it into a 21st Century smart office.
Otu, who expressed his disappointment at the deplorable state of the office during an interactive session with staff of the Governor’s Office, also announced a temporary relocation of the staff to give room for total overhauling and proper modernization of all departments and units.
In a press release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbeche in Calabar, Tuesday, the governor said, “As a matter of fact we deserve to build a brand new one (office complex) but because there are too many competing demands, we will try to remodel this one properly for it to serve the demands of the 21st Century.
“The edifice that we have now has served several administrations and just because of time, we will not be able to do the things we supposed to do but will do what we can to make it conducive for me and all of you the staff.
“I am looking for a space where the staff could be accommodated so that at least they can renovate this edifice to a 21st Century smart office in line with current realities.
“If we are able to get a place, I think all of us will be involved so that they can start the renovation of this office very quickly.
“It is one of those projects that we are targeting, though I don’t believe in 100 days in office, but for the 100 days in office that we will be doing,” the governor said.
On the issue of welfare, the governor who is also considerate of the untold hardship civil servants are facing due to the subsidy removal and consequent hike in the price of fuel, maintained that plans are on the way to introduce measures that will cushion the effect on their livelihoods.
While soliciting their loyalty and cooperation at all times, Otu urged them to demonstrate greater commitment and dedication for effective and efficient service delivery.
On his part, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, praised the governor for his bold initiative to upgrade the working environment as well as enhanced welfare package for workers in the state, and urged them to reciprocate the gesture by putting in their best.
Earlier in his introductory remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, commended the governor for meeting the staff, a gesture he noted that has not been recorded in the office for over a decade.
Owan-Enoh informed the governor that the staff were eagerly waiting to experience the promised season of sweetness and assured him of their cooperation, loyalty and service at all times.