Otu signs laws to strengthen welfare, healthcare systems
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has signed into law a Supplementary Appropriation Bill that raises the state’s 2026 budget from ₦961.6 billion to ₦963.07 billion. Alongside this, he assented to two landmark legislations: the Cross River State Social Investment and Protection Law and the Health Quackery (Prohibition) Law.
Otu explained that the new measures were designed to provide stronger institutional frameworks for addressing poverty, safeguarding citizens from unqualified medical practitioners, and ensuring that government resources remain responsive to emerging needs. He emphasised that governance must be dynamic, adjusting policies and programmes to reflect changing realities.
*Otu
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has signed into law a Supplementary Appropriation Bill that raises the state’s 2026 budget from ₦961.6 billion to ₦963.07 billion. Alongside this, he assented to two landmark legislations: the Cross River State Social Investment and Protection Law and the Health Quackery (Prohibition) Law.
Otu explained that the new measures were designed to provide stronger institutional frameworks for addressing poverty, safeguarding citizens from unqualified medical practitioners, and ensuring that government resources remain responsive to emerging needs. He emphasised that governance must be dynamic, adjusting policies and programmes to reflect changing realities.
“Government cannot continue to operate in the same way when circumstances have shifted. We must reposition our strategies to meet the demands of the time,” Otu stated, stressing that the prevailing economic climate required constant alignment between development ambitions and financial realities.
The Social Investment and Protection Law establish a dedicated agency with a governing board, staff, and financial provisions to coordinate welfare programmes. According to the governor, this legislation will enable the state to reach vulnerable groups more effectively. “Our responsibility is to ensure that no one is left behind. This law provides a stronger framework to empower the poor and the disadvantaged,” he said.
Equally significant is the Health Quackery (Prohibition) Law, which seeks to eliminate unlicensed medical practice. It creates a Health Monitoring Task Force, mandates registration of practitioners, and strengthens collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
Otu underscored that protecting lives must remain a priority, insisting that only qualified professionals should provide healthcare services. “We cannot compromise the safety of our people. Anyone presenting themselves as a healthcare provider must be properly registered and competent,” he declared.
On the supplementary appropriation, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, explained that the adjustment was necessary to address unforeseen developments and reallocate funds from dormant budgetary positions to critical areas. He noted that the increase also accommodates new revenue sources from enhanced Federation Allocation.
“This supplementary appropriation ensures flexibility, allowing government to respond to pressing needs while maintaining accountability,” Ayambem said.
Otu concluded by commending the dedication of his officials, noting that despite negative narratives often circulated on social media, the progress achieved reflects the commitment of those entrusted with public responsibilities. With these laws, Cross River State has taken decisive steps to strengthen its welfare systems, enhance healthcare regulation, and ensure that its financial planning remains adaptable in a challenging economic environment.
