Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu Thursday flagged off the construction of a 1,000-unit housing scheme for civil servants, describing the project as a major step toward improving workers’ welfare and securing their future after service.

The project, christened the ‘People-First Housing Scheme’, is located in Ikot Efio-Okon Edem, Akpabuyo Local Government Area and is designed to provide affordable homeownership opportunities for public servants across the state.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt Hon Peter Odey said that the initiative showcases his administration’s dedication to prioritizing the needs of the people, especially those in the civil service, whom he referred to as the “engine room of government.”

“Civil servants carry the responsibility of translating policies into action and sustaining governance. It is only right that we create meaningful interventions that guarantee their comfort, stability, and long-term security,” he said.

The governor noted that the scheme builds on previous efforts, including a 600-unit housing project executed during the administration of Senator Liyel Imoke, which he said provided lasting benefits for retirees now residing in the CROSPIL Estate.

According to him, the new 1,000-unit project is both a continuation of that legacy and an expansion aligned with his administration’s “People-First” agenda.

“It is not merely about building houses; it is about building hope, security, and a better future for civil servants and their families,” Otu stated, assuring that the project would be executed with transparency, speed, and accountability.

Earlier, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Bassey Okon, said the initiative was conceived to address the persistent challenge of property acquisition among salaried workers.

He disclosed that the scheme represents the first phase of a broader housing programme that will be extended to other senatorial districts in the state.

“This came from a clear recognition of the difficulties civil servants face in acquiring landed property. His Excellency gave us the approval to develop a sustainable model that will enable public servants to own homes,” Okon said.

He added that the current rollout targets the southern senatorial district, while additional phases are planned for the central and northern districts.

Former Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Rosemary Archibong, who is from the community, also expressed gratitude to the governor for choosing to locate the project in Akpabuyo. She characterized it as a development that would enhance economic activities and contribute to population growth in the region.

She commended the administration for what she termed sustained peace and inclusive governance, noting that the project would enhance both commerce and civic participation in the host community.

“This project will not only provide homes but also stimulate economic growth and strengthen our community. We are confident that we will return here for the commissioning,” she said.

Archibong further pledged the support of the community to the governor, expressing optimism about the successful completion of the project.

In her remarks, a representative of Zenith Bank, Mrs. Magdalene Wilson, affirmed the bank’s commitment to financing the housing scheme.

“Zenith Bank is proud to be part of this initiative. We will stand firmly with the Cross River State Government to ensure the success of this project,” she said, describing the partnership as a long-term relationship aimed at driving development.

The housing scheme is expected to provide not only shelter but also a structured pathway for civil servants to secure post-retirement stability, a concern that has long affected workers in the public sector.

Civil servants and local residents say the initiative, if effectively implemented, could significantly improve living standards among civil servants while contributing to urban development in Akpabuyo and surrounding areas.