1 week Ago By Emem Julius
Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has urged the selected candidates of his political party, the All Progressive Congress, for the forthcoming local government council elections in the state to grasp the vision and commitment of the state government towards advancement and effective governance. The decision to select the party’s candidates for the 18 chairmanship seats and the 196 councillor positions for the local government election through consensus was unanimously reached during a comprehensive state caucus meeting of the APC on Monday, October 14, 2014, in Calabar. The governor unveiled the leadership qualities expected to be exhibited at the local government councils in the state as elected officials step into leadership roles, following the council elections scheduled for November 2, 2024.
Governor Otu emphasized the significance of development-mindedness, compassion for humanity, and inclusivity in the governance of the local government councils. He underscored the necessity for elected officials to prioritize the welfare and development of their constituents above personal interests. He revealed that since his tenure as governor for over a year, the local government allocations have remained untouched because he believed that the state required substantial funds to invest in a legacy project that holds immense benefits for the people.
He elucidated that one of these legacy projects is the recent investment made by the state in acquiring four new aircraft to enhance flight operations for Calabar routes that have experienced frequent flight cancellations. He further elucidated the investment in the airline operations currently operating as Cally Air under a lease agreement with Aero Contractors Airlines. Related News Gunshots as Cross River communities clash over rice farm The governor also noted that all the 18 local government councils hold equity shares in the new airline operations the state has invested in.
He added, “The share certificates will be presented to each elected council chairman, and an expert management team led by a managing director with extensive experience in airline operations has already been secured. “The management team will ensure efficiency in the airline operations and will provide regular updates to the shareholders, including the state and the local government councils.” He also addressed his concerns regarding the high costs of food items and transportation within the state.
He announced that the state government is introducing technology to convert all the petrol engines of commercial motorcycles and tricycles to electric power engines. Additionally, electric-powered commercial buses would be introduced to reduce transportation costs within the state. Otu assured that the state government is overseeing numerous initiatives and projects aimed at restoring the state’s prominence in terms of infrastructure, electricity supply, healthcare, and agriculture, among others.
Furthermore, Governor Otu emphasized the importance of upholding ethical standards, integrity, and professionalism by the elected officials in their roles as leaders of the local government councils. He encouraged them to set a positive example, promote community involvement, and foster unity among diverse groups within their respective jurisdictions..
