By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has approved the appointment of Orok Okon as the new Head of the State Civil Service.
Okon’s appointment, which takes effect from September 19, 2025, follows the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo on Tuesday, the governor commended Dr. Eteng for his decades of dedication and service, describing his career as a beacon of excellence and commitment.
Governor Otu charged the new Head of Service to bring vision, integrity, and reform-driven zeal to the role, stressing that his administration remains committed to enthroning competent leadership across the state’s 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 steadfast resolve to strengthen the machinery of governance for optimal service delivery to the people of Cross River State,” the statement read.
Upon assumption of office in May 2023, the governor appointed Dr Eteng in September.
Otu’s administration has repeatedly emphasised civil service reform, focusing on professionalism, merit-based promotions, welfare improvements for workers, and stronger governance structures.
During his tenure, Dr. Eteng implemented several measures, including the regularisation of casual workers, many of whom had reportedly served for years without formal recognition.
He also initiated plans to recruit new civil servants to fill vacancies created by mass retirements, while working to align the workforce with merit-driven standards and best practices.
On his part, Okon, before his new appointment, served as a Permanent Secretary in the Cross River State Civil Service, including at the Ministry of Justice.
With years of administrative and legal experience, he is expected to consolidate ongoing reforms and steer the civil service towards greater efficiency.
The transition marks a continuation of Governor Otu’s pledge to reposition the civil service as the engine room of governance, with Okon now tasked with sustaining momentum and deepening reforms that affect thousands of workers across the state.
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