Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has officially flagged off the construction of a 1,000-unit housing scheme for civil servants, marking a significant step toward enhancing workers' welfare and securing their future after retirement. The project, named the 'People-First Housing Scheme,' is situated in Ikot Efio-Okon Edem, Akpabuyo Local Government Area, and is designed to offer affordable homeownership opportunities for public servants across the state.
Groundbreaking Ceremony
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt Hon Peter Odey, emphasized that the initiative reflects his administration's commitment to prioritizing the needs of the people, particularly civil servants, whom he described as the 'engine room of government.' He stated, '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.'
Building on Previous Efforts
The governor noted that the scheme builds on earlier initiatives, including a 600-unit housing project executed during the administration of Senator Liyel Imoke, which provided lasting benefits for retirees now 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. He added, 'It is not merely about building houses; it is about building hope, security, and a better future for civil servants and their families,' assuring that the project would be executed with transparency, speed, and accountability.
Addressing Property Acquisition Challenges
Earlier, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Bassey Okon, explained that the initiative was conceived to address the persistent challenge of property acquisition among salaried workers. 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. Okon said, 'This came from a clear recognition of the difficulties civil servants face in acquiring landed property. His Excellency gave us the approval to develop a sustainable model that will enable public servants to own homes.' He added that the current rollout targets the southern senatorial district, while additional phases are planned for the central and northern districts.
Community Support and Economic Impact
Former Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Rosemary Archibong, who hails from the community, expressed gratitude to the governor for choosing to locate the project in Akpabuyo. She characterized it as a development that would enhance economic activities and contribute to population growth in the region. She commended the administration for sustained peace and inclusive governance, noting that the project would enhance both 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 the commissioning,' she said, pledging the community's support to the governor.
Banking Partnership
In her remarks, a representative of Zenith Bank, Mrs. Magdalene Wilson, affirmed 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 the success of this project,' she said, describing the partnership as a long-term relationship aimed at driving development.
Future Prospects
The housing scheme is expected to provide not only shelter but also a structured pathway for civil servants to secure post-retirement stability, a concern that has long affected workers in the public sector. Civil servants and local residents believe that if effectively implemented, the initiative could significantly improve living standards among civil servants while contributing to urban development in Akpabuyo and surrounding areas.
