By
Obiekezie Uchenna
The Neighbour to Neighbour Network (N2N) in Cross River State has called for stronger engagement between the state government and residents, following a statewide tour to assess development projects and gather feedback on Governor Bassey Otu’s administration.
The Director-General of the network, Hon. Bobby Effiom Ekpenyong, made the call during a world press conference organised by the political support group to present its findings, observations and experiences from engagements across the state.
Ekpenyong said the network identified a gap between the government and the people, stressing the need for residents to interact with the governor and communicate their concerns and aspirations while enabling the government to receive feedback from the grassroots.
The network subsequently embarked on a statewide tour, visiting towns and villages to interact with residents, assess development projects and examine budgetary provisions.
The engagements revealed both encouraging developments and legitimate expectations among residents, he noted.
Describing N2N as a grassroots political support group committed to promoting the political aspirations of Governor Bassey Otu, Ekpenyong said political support should extend beyond slogans and election-season activities to include sustained engagement with communities.
He urged the state government to sustain its development efforts, maintain transparency in project implementation and ensure that public resources translated into tangible benefits for residents.
On employment, Ekpenyong stated that more than 4,000 workers had reportedly been recruited across the state’s 18 local government areas following the completion of some projects under the Otu administration.
He also cited the recruitment of approximately 2,500 personnel into the state civil and public service in 2024.
“These figures highlight the importance of employment in the state’s development agenda. Behind every genuine employment opportunity, there is a human story,” he said.
On the state’s oil-producing status, Ekpenyong noted that access to the economic benefits associated with oil production remained an important issue for Cross River State.
He added that reports from 2026 indicated that a technical committee had reported 119 crude oil and gas wells within the state, while the Otu administration continued engaging relevant federal institutions on the matter.
Meanwhile, residents of communities visited during the tour reportedly commended aspects of Governor Otu’s People First agenda, including efforts to restore public facilities such as the state library and Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort.
However, they also called for more employment opportunities, improved roads, better healthcare services, a stronger education system and greater economic growth.
