The new governor, who stated that he is eager to get started, disclosed that his administration intends to request a review of the Bakassi issue.

Otu stated that the state government would require N54 billion to resolve over seven years' worth of promotion arrears for state civil servants.

Monday in Calabar, Otu announced this in his inaugural address as governor of Cross River State.

ALSO READ: Tinubu tells Opposition: "My Victory Does Not Make Me More Nigerian."

During his tenure, the governor also stated that he would restructure the enormous debt he inherited and implement a very realistic budget.

His administration will give the state a facelift by performing critical infrastructure repairs, clearing waterways, pruning overgrown trees, repainting, and removing garbage, he added.

The governor, who informed the state of his strategic road map to guide his actions, pledged to eradicate crime in the state and raise the standard of living for the people.

ALSO READ: Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has taken the oath of office for a second term.

According to him,;

“We are excited to be here at a time like this; for champions are made in trying moments.

“We are confident and determined to restructure our huge debt stock while strengthening our fiscal posture.

“We hope to engage with the labour unions dispassionately on the feasible and sustainable paths for dealing with our depleting civil service, given that over 75 per cent of our manpower will be retiring before December, 2024.

“The same worrisome narrative applies to the backlog of staff promotion with corresponding severance burden in excess of N54 billion.

“For the few who take pride in criminality. There shall be no hiding place and only two options are on the table: turn a new leaf within our upcoming amnesty window or vacate Cross River State without delay.

ALSO READ:  Alex Otti has been sworn in as the governor of Abia State.

 

“Our administration shall have zero tolerance for criminality in whatever form or shade.

“We shall expand our footprint on total healthcare and education spending per capital.

“We will curb gender-based violence and institutionalise Cross River as the cleanest, greenest and safest state in our country.

“Security confidence will be strengthened by greater illumination of the streets, monitoring crime flashpoints and creating welfare synergies with security operatives, community leaders, and hidden security watches for maximum impact.”