From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has on Thursday flagged off the construction of a 1,000-unit housing scheme for civil servants, describing the project as a major step toward improving workers’ welfare and securing their future after retirement.
The project, tagged the “People-First Housing Scheme,” is located in Ikot Efio-Okon Edem, Akpabuyo Local Government Area of the state.
It is designed to provide affordable housing and home ownership opportunities for public servants across the state.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Otu, who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, said the initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the needs of the people, particularly civil servants, whom he described as the “engine room of government.”
“Civil servants carry the responsibility of translating policies into action and sustaining governance. It is only right that we create meaningful interventions that guarantee their comfort, stability, and long-term security,” he said.
The governor noted that the scheme builds on previous efforts, including a 600-unit housing project executed during the administration of Senator Liyel Imoke, which has continued to benefit retirees residing in the CROSPIL Estate.
According to him, the new 1,000-unit project is both a continuation of that legacy and an expansion aligned with his administration’s “People-First” agenda.
“It is not merely about building houses; it is about building hope, security, and a better future for civil servants and their families,” Otu added, assuring that the project would be executed with transparency, speed, and accountability.
Earlier, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Bassey Okon, said the initiative was conceived to address the persistent challenges civil servants face in acquiring property.
He disclosed that the scheme represents the first phase of a broader housing programme that will be extended to other senatorial districts in the state.
“This came from a clear recognition of the difficulties civil servants face in acquiring landed property. His Excellency approved the development of a sustainable model that will enable public servants to own homes,” Okon said.
He added that the current rollout targets the southern senatorial district, while additional phases are planned for the central and northern districts.
Also speaking, a former Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Rosemary Archibong, commended the governor for locating the project in Akpabuyo, noting that it would boost economic activities and population growth in the area.
She praised the administration for promoting peace and inclusive governance, adding that the project would enhance commerce and civic participation in the host community.
“This project will not only provide homes but also stimulate economic growth and strengthen our community. We are confident that we will return here for its commissioning,” she said.
Archibong further pledged the community’s support for the successful completion of the project.
In her remarks, a representative of Zenith Bank, Mrs. Magdalene Wilson, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to financing the housing scheme.
“Zenith Bank is proud to be part of this initiative. We will stand firmly with the Cross River State Government to ensure its success,” she said, describing the partnership as a long-term effort toward sustainable development.
The housing scheme is expected to provide not only shelter but also a structured pathway for civil servants to achieve post-retirement stability, an issue that has long affected workers in the public sector.
Residents and civil servants expressed optimism that, if effectively implemented, the initiative would significantly improve living standards while contributing to urban development in Akpabuyo and surrounding areas.
