We'll Offset Retirees' Outstanding Gratuities - Gov Otu
Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore the pride of the State's Civil Service by continually offsetting outstanding retirees’ gratuities.
By Dianabasi Effiong
Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore the pride of the State's Civil Service by continually offsetting outstanding retirees’ gratuities.
He made this known on Monday at the swearing-in of the new Head of Service of Cross River State, Orok Okon, at Government House, Calabar.
Okon's appointment as Permanent Secretary on Sept. 19 followed the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng the previous day, paving the way for his elevation as Head of Service.
The governor, who described the Civil Service as the "superstructure" for implementation of government policies, recalled its golden years when, within 2010 and 2013, no fewer than eight states visited Cross River to understudy its organic service structure and operational efficiency.
He noted the decline that followed, adding that his administration would restore its lost glory.
"As we reposition the Civil Service, my administration will continue to prioritise workers’ welfare.
"Monthly salary payment remains sacrosanct, promotions are being implemented as and when due, the yearly incremental step has been restored after eleven years, and, very importantly, we have put plans in place to continue defraying outstanding retirees’ gratuities," Otu said.
He also charged the new Head of Service to entrench professionalism, fairness, and competence across the workforce.
He stressed the importance of proper record-keeping, digitisation, and continuous staff training, noting that service delivery must be driven by equity, qualification, and due process rather than nepotism or bias.
In his response, Okon expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to fully implement the governor’s charge.
"The charge you have given me, both publicly and privately, shall be carried out to the letter with your support, as usual,” he said.
Okon also promised to brief the State Executive Council soon on details of the reform agenda for the Civil Service.
He also pledged close collaboration with Permanent Secretaries and Directors.
He added that though a few challenges remain, the Cross River civil service harbored diligent and hardworking officers who would be supported and rewarded.
"I thank Your Excellency, I thank everyone, and I say God bless this administration and God bless Cross River State," the new Head of Service said.
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