Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Cross River State has taken a major step toward revamping its economic and governance landscape as Governor Bassey Otu signed nine landmark bills into law, targeting key sectors including infrastructure, water, health, and revenue generation.
The legislative move, endorsed unanimously by the Cross River State House of Assembly, is part of a broader strategy to stimulate internal revenue, unlock public-private investments, and strengthen public sector efficiency.
“We assumed office in a tough economic climate marked by inflation and limited access to funds, yet we’ve managed to stay focused,” Governor Otu said during the signing ceremony.
“These laws will directly improve governance and service delivery. We’ve ordered three new fire trucks, unlocked N4.5 billion for rural roads, and restructured the security trust fund for better oversight. Each of these laws pushes Cross River forward.”
Among the most significant laws is the Cross River State Fire Fighting and Rescue Service Law No. 4, 2024, which the Governor said would not only enhance emergency response capabilities but also boost internally generated revenue through improved service structures.
The Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025 also stands out for its impact on investment. It guarantees access to basic WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services and provides a regulatory framework attractive to donor agencies and private investors.
Another key piece of legislation, the Cross River State Rural Access Road Authority Law No. 8, 2025, secures N4.5 billion in funding to connect isolated farming communities to urban markets, enhancing agribusiness potential in the state.
Governor Otu also highlighted the Cross River State Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency Law No. 10, 2025, which is expected to streamline the medical supply chain and open avenues for public-private partnerships in the health sector.
“These laws are part of our renewed effort to position Cross River as a modern, investor-friendly state,” the Governor said.
In a political show of strength, the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, unanimously passed a motion endorsing Governor Otu for a second term in 2027.
“Your leadership has been exemplary. In just two years, the 10th Assembly has passed 30 bills and 87 resolutions, with more than half implemented. The 9th Assembly couldn’t match that. We are proud of what we’ve achieved together and fully endorse your re-election.”
The motion was moved by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Sylvester Agabi and seconded by Deputy House Leader Rt. Hon. Davis Ettah.
The full list of new laws also includes, “Security Trust Fund (Amendment) Law No. 6, 2024 – strengthens leadership and funding structure for tackling insecurity.
“Scraps Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 9, 2025; regulates scavenging and curbs vandalism.
“Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 4, 2024; resolves licensing and revenue overlaps.
“Records and Archives Bureau Law No. 7, 2024; institutionalizes state data and documentation processes.
“Forestry Research Institute (Establishment) Law No. 6, 2024; advances environmental sustainability and academic research.”
