The Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has unveiled the newly rehabilitated Local Government Service Commission Complex in Calabar. He called for greater accountability and improved performance from state workers.
Speaking at the ceremony on Wednesday, Otu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve not to abandon any projects. He noted that his government had already completed around 40 per cent of previously neglected projects and is laying a solid foundation for economic development across the state.
He stressed his commitment to improving workers’ welfare while ensuring the civil service is free from inefficiencies.
“We will continue to fulfil our responsibilities as a responsive government, but we expect the workforce to step up as well. Let our efforts encourage you to be more committed and productive,” he said.
“We aim to pay gratuities within one week of retirement, but the recurring issue of ghost workers remains a major obstacle.”
Governor Otu described the Local Government Service Commission as one of the most overlooked institutions in the state and said its rehabilitation is part of a broader plan to restore abandoned government infrastructure.
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Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Felix Idem, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Caro Asikpo, praised the new complex, describing it as a symbol of institutional revival and purposeful leadership.
“This facility is more than just a building it symbolises the administration’s determination to bring excellence and integrity back to the civil service. It stands for hope, ambition, and renewed commitment,” she said.
Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Darlington Bassey, also applauded the governor’s leadership, saying, “We have always known His Excellency as a man of action, right from his days in the House of Representatives.
“This project is not just a legacy it’s a challenge for us to do more. We’ve already identified over 200 ghost workers and are taking steps to remove them. For the first time in years, local government administration is being repositioned. We are proud landlords and ready to deliver.”
