Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, yesterday, reshuffled his cabinet in a strategic move to reinvigorate governance and position his administration for greater efficiency as it enters the electioneering phase.

The decision, announced at an emergency meeting of the State Executive Council in Calabar, saw some commissioners redeployed to new ministries, while others were retained in their portfolios in recognition of their outstanding performance. The governor described the exercise as a deliberate recalibration of government machinery to consolidate the gains of his administration and accelerate the delivery of his People First agenda.

Addressing members of his cabinet, Otu emphasised that the reshuffle was neither punitive nor a reward system, but a necessary leadership instrument designed to align talent with evolving governance priorities.

“Government is a living institution; it must constantly adjust to new realities. This exercise is about injecting fresh energy, maximising individual strengths, and ensuring that every member of this cabinet remains focused on the larger vision of transforming Cross River State. We have crossed the threshold of foundation-laying; this is the season of consolidation and accelerated delivery,” the governor declared.

Otu reminded council members that with the administration approaching another electoral cycle, the expectations of citizens had become even higher, insisting that only measurable performance, innovation, and unwavering commitment to public service would define the legacy of his government.

“Electioneering must never distract us from governance. The people will judge us, not by slogans, but by roads constructed, hospitals revitalised, schools improved, jobs created, and the quality of life we have enhanced. Every commissioner must see his or her ministry as a performance centre. There is absolutely no room for complacency,” he charged.

The governor further urged members to regard their new assignments as opportunities for renewed service rather than personal victories or setbacks, stressing that collective success remained the administration’s ultimate objective.