Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has enacted nine new laws aimed at improving water access, enhancing security, and boosting internal revenue. At Tuesday’s signing ceremony in Calabar, Otu praised the legislature for its commitment over the past two years, emphasizing that the new laws align with his administration’s goal to modernize governance and tackle urgent developmental issues.
The governor signed the following laws:
* Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025
* Fire Fighting and Rescue Service Law No. 4, 2024
* Security Trust Fund (Amendment) Law No. 6, 2024
* Scraps Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 9, 2025
* Rural Access Road Authority Law No. 8, 2025
* Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 4, 2024
* Records and Archives Bureau Law No. 7, 2024
* Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency Law No. 10, 2025
* Forestry Research Institute (Establishment) Law No. 6, 2024
Otu highlighted that, despite taking office during economic hardship and inflation, his administration has remained focused. He revealed that they have already ordered three new fire trucks, unlocked ₦4.5 billion for rural road development, and overhauled the security trust fund for more effective oversight.
The Water Supply and Sanitation Law guarantees citizens access to clean water and sanitation services and establishes a regulatory framework for the sector. The amended Security Trust Fund Law authorizes the Governor to appoint a qualified chairman, improving security oversight. The amended Scraps Regulatory Agency Law targets illegal scavenging and vandalism.
Through the Rural Access Road Authority Law, the government aims to maintain key rural roads, especially those supporting farming communities. The amended Traffic Management Law streamlines agency functions and resolves licensing revenue overlaps.
The Records and Archives Bureau Law creates an agency to safeguard state documents, while the Drugs and Health Commodities Law ensures a stable supply of medical resources and fosters public-private partnerships. The Forestry Research Institute Law establishes a body focused on environmental and forestry research to support sustainable development.
Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies that directly benefit the people, stating that these laws play a crucial role in upgrading infrastructure, stimulating economic growth, and strengthening security across Cross River State.
