- …approves 30 ad-hoc staff to kickstart new Government Printing Press
By Benedict Okache
In a decisive move that underscores his unwavering commitment to revitalising State institutions and driving holistic development, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, PNIPR, has approved the employment of 25 new staff members to strengthen the workforce of the Cross River State Newspaper Corporation, Publishers of the Nigerian Chronicle and Weekend Chronicle.
Cross River State Commissioner for Information, Dr Erasmus Ekpang, who disclosed this to the Media in Calabar said this landmark approval follows the comprehensive renovation and remodeling of the Corporation’s buildings, which were originally constructed in 1971, adding that the employment will be carried out in line with extant provisions by the Cross River State Civil Service Commission that has the sole authority to employ into the State’s Civil and Public Service.
Dr Ekpang pointed out that the facelift not only restores the historic structures to modern standards but also symbolises a new dawn for the State-owned Media outfit, positioning it as a credible voice in the dissemination of information and promotion of Cross River’s rich cultural heritage, emphasising that the entire Corporation currently has less than 10 staff members.
“I Sincerely thank His Excellency, our “People First” Governor for his direction and commitment to completing this remodeling of the Nigerian Chronicle. These new staff, I am confident when they come onboard, would truly boost the workforce of the Corporation and reposition it for better service delivery in their publications,” the Commissioner noted.
Dr Ekpang also used the opportunity to announce that in addition to the 25 permanent staff of the Cross River State Newspaper Corporation, Governor Otu has also approved the engagement of 30 ad-hoc staff to kick-start operations of the newly installed Government Printing Press located inside the Corporation’s Complex which is due for re-opening and commissioning soon.
“This strategic intervention is expected to enhance efficiency, expand production capacity, boost the State’s Revenue and ensure timely delivery of quality publications to the people of Cross River State and beyond. The Ad-hoc staff are expected to manage productions in the Press for the next 3 months after which the Governor may consider employing them on a permanent basis into the State’s Civil Service,” Dr Ekpang enthused.
Stakeholders across the media and communication sector have lauded the Governor’s foresight, describing the initiative as a bold step toward restoring confidence in public institutions. By investing in both infrastructure and human capital, Governor Otu has demonstrated his resolve to reposition the State’s Media industry as a vibrant platform for information, education, and public enlightenment.
Observers have also noted that this development is consistent with the Governor’s broader vision to renew the face of Cross River State across all sectors of development. From infrastructure upgrades to educational reforms, healthcare improvements, and now media revitalisation, Senator Otu’s administration continues to set a new benchmark for governance anchored on inclusivity, innovation, and progress.
The remodelling of the Newspaper Corporation and the recruitment drive are widely seen as part of a larger agenda to ensure that every sector of the State reflects the Governor’s “People First” philosophy. By breathing new life into an institution that has served the State for over five decades, Governor Otu has reaffirmed his dedication to preserving history while embracing modernity.
As the newly recruited staff prepare to assume their roles, and the printing press begins operations, the Cross River State Newspaper Corporation is poised to reclaim its place as a leading voice in Nigeria’s media landscape. The Governor’s actions have not only restored pride in the institution but have also sent a clear message: Cross River State is on a path of renewal, and no sector will be left behind.
