The Chairman of the Cross River State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Ntufam Victor Okon, has commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for the timely presentation of the state’s ₦987.8 billion 2027 Appropriation Bill, expressing optimism that it would facilitate effective implementation of government policies and accelerate development.
Okon said the early presentation of the budget would give the government adequate time to plan and systematically implement its programmes and projects, ensuring that budgetary provisions translate into tangible benefits for Cross Riverians.
The Commission chairman noted that the budget preparation process involved inputs from ministries, departments and agencies, as well as offices, boards and commissions, describing the process as an indication that the governor was working with a coordinated team to drive the state’s development agenda.
He explained that timely budget presentation was significant because it established a clear implementation timeline and milestones for translating government policies into actions capable of delivering measurable results.
According to him, the process also demonstrated Governor Otu’s commitment to governing the state in accordance with the rule of law and established constitutional procedures for the benefit of the people.
Okon commended the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, and members of the legislature for their handling of sensitive issues concerning the state’s development, stressing the importance of cooperation among the arms of government in advancing the state’s interests.
Reflecting on the theme of the proposed budget, “Budget of Consolidation and Renewed Hope,” the chairman said the ₦987.8 billion fiscal plan reflected the administration’s development priorities and its stated commitment to improving the welfare of residents across the state.
He described the proposed budget as ambitious and promising, noting that the substantial provision for capital expenditure indicated the administration’s intention to pursue infrastructure projects and other interventions expected to improve living conditions across communities.
The proposed budget allocates ₦708 billion to capital expenditure and ₦287 billion to recurrent expenditure, according to figures provided by the chairman. He expressed confidence that effective implementation would promote development across the state.
“It’s a clear indication that the Governor is in touch with the people and is poised to take the delivery of good governance to a higher level, which is very good for the state,” Okon said.
He expressed optimism that diligent implementation of the budget would produce visible development outcomes and called on stakeholders to support the government’s policies and programmes.
The Commission chairman also urged Cross Riverians to support Governor Otu’s re-election bid, maintaining that the governor had a clear vision for the state, anchored on even development across communities.
By Iloke Egbe
