The newly appointed Cross River State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Ambassador Obi Ayuk Afor, on Wednesday officially assumed office with a commitment to fostering teamwork and driving initiatives that will further position the state as Nigeria’s foremost tourism destination.
Hon. Afor was received at the Ministry’s headquarters with a colourful cultural performance by dancers from the Department of Culture and Heritage, reflecting the rich cultural heritage that the ministry is mandated to promote and preserve.
The Commissioner later proceeded to his office, where a prayer session was held, seeking divine guidance and wisdom as he begins his stewardship of the ministry.
He was subsequently introduced to members of staff across the tourism cluster by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Eme Affiah, who welcomed him and reaffirmed the workforce’s readiness to support the ministry in achieving its mandate.
Addressing the staff, Hon. Afor stressed the importance of unity, collaboration and commitment to duty, noting that every department has a vital role to play in advancing the state’s tourism and cultural development.
“I believe we can achieve greater results by working together as one team. Every department is important, and I look forward to partnering with all of you to build on the achievements already recorded and further strengthen Cross River’s position as a leading tourism destination,” he said.
The Commissioner assured the staff of an open-door leadership style and urged them to remain dedicated, innovative and focused on delivering quality service in line with the vision of Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration.
To conclude his first day in office, Hon. Afor held his inaugural management meeting with directors and heads of departments, during which he received detailed briefings on ongoing programmes, projects and the ministry’s strategic priorities.
By Carolyn Ugbor
