Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has announced that the next phase of gratuity payments to retired civil servants will commence within the next few weeks, as part of ongoing efforts to clear outstanding arrears in the state.
The governor made this known on Friday during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration, where he was represented by his deputy, Hon. Peter Odey.
He disclosed that gratuities owed up to 2015 have already been fully settled, following the earlier release of ₦10 billion by the administration to offset part of the backlog inherited from previous governments.
According to him, the outstanding payments covering the period from 2015 to 2023 will soon be addressed, assuring retirees that government remains committed to clearing the remaining liabilities.
“Let me use this opportunity to announce that the next set of payments will commence in a couple of weeks,” the governor stated.
Governor Otu used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, describing civil servants as the driving force behind governance.
He emphasized that the “People First” philosophy of his administration places workers at the centre of policy decisions, noting that their concerns are being addressed through continuous engagement and dialogue with labour unions.
The governor commended workers in the state for maintaining industrial harmony, describing May Day as a moment for reflection and appreciation of their invaluable contributions to development.
Highlighting achievements in the public service, he revealed that the government has sustained a capacity-building programme, training about 300 civil servants monthly in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
He added that over 200 workers have already been certified in health, safety and environmental management, with a target of 500, while 100 others have undergone training in public communication.
On infrastructure, the governor said efforts are ongoing to improve working conditions, including the connection of government offices to public power supply, as well as the renovation and furnishing of office spaces.
He further listed key initiatives to include the provision of vehicles for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), allocation of 50 hectares of land in each senatorial district for a civil servants’ housing scheme, and the ongoing construction of 1,000 housing units in Ikot Efio-Okon Edem.
Other interventions include the establishment of a staff club and event centre, review of the public service manual, regular promotions and salary increments, extension of maternity leave to 24 weeks, and provision of free transportation for workers during festive periods.
Responding to concerns raised by labour unions, the governor clarified that there is no disparity in salary structures between state and local government workers, while also indicating plans to review the retirement age for health workers.
He added that a committee has been set up to address the regularization of local government staff, as part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening the state’s workforce.
