Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has approved the appointment of Orok Okon as the new Head of the State Civil Service, with effect from September 19, 2025.
Okon succeeds Dr. Innocent Eteng, who retired after decades of service. In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, Governor Otu praised Eteng’s career as a model of excellence, dedication, and commitment to public service.
He charged the new Head of Service to bring vision, integrity, and reform-driven zeal to the role, noting that his administration remains focused on strengthening governance structures and promoting competent leadership across public institutions.
“The new Head of Service is expected to foster efficiency, professionalism, and accountability across the public service. This appointment underscores the administration’s resolve to strengthen the machinery of governance for optimal service delivery to the people of Cross River State,” the statement read.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Otu has prioritized civil service reforms, with emphasis on professionalism, merit-based promotions, welfare improvements, and accountability. Under Dr. Eteng, key measures were introduced, including the regularisation of long-serving casual workers and plans to recruit fresh staff to fill vacancies created by mass retirements.
Okon, who previously served as a Permanent Secretary in the state civil service, including at the Ministry of Justice, brings years of administrative and legal experience to the role. He is expected to consolidate ongoing reforms and drive further efficiency in the state’s workforce.
The transition marks part of Governor Otu’s broader pledge to reposition the civil service as the “engine room of governance,” with Okon now tasked with sustaining momentum and deepening reforms affecting thousands of workers across the state.
