Bassey Otu appointment of Orok Okon as Cross River’s new Head of Civil Service signals a continued push for governance reforms
Bassey Otu appointment of Orok Okon as the new Head of the Cross River State Civil Service has been officially confirmed, following the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng.
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The transition, effective from 19 September 2025, is being seen as a significant step in the governor’s ongoing civil service reform agenda.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, Governor Otu praised Dr. Eteng’s decades-long service, hailing it as a beacon of excellence.
Eteng, who was appointed shortly after Otu assumed office in May 2023, was credited with key reform measures, including the regularisation of long-serving casual workers and efforts to modernise recruitment processes.
The Bassey Otu appointment of Okon reflects the administration’s deepening commitment to professionalism, transparency, and reform within public institutions.
The governor tasked Okon with delivering visionary leadership, integrity, and renewed zeal for civil service transformation.
Describing the new Head of Service as a seasoned administrator and legal expert, the statement highlighted Okon’s previous role as a Permanent Secretary, notably within the Ministry of Justice.
His blend of administrative and legal experience is expected to serve as a strong foundation for consolidating reforms already underway.
Governor Otu reiterated that the appointment was part of a broader plan to enhance governance across Cross River State, by placing competent leaders in key positions.
The new Head of Service is expected to drive accountability and efficiency, crucial in an era where public expectations of government institutions are increasingly high.
As the engine room of the state’s governance structure, the civil service is now positioned to build upon its recent strides under Dr. Eteng, with Okon tasked with not only sustaining the pace but introducing new standards aligned with global best practices.
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The Bassey Otu appointment sends a strong message that the administration is serious about reform, stability, and improved service delivery for citizens across Cross River.
