Cross River Resumes Student Bursary Payments, Introduces Special Grants for Medical Students

Bassey Otu has announced the return of bursary payments for Cross River students in tertiary institutions and unveiled a new financial support scheme for medical students as part of efforts to strengthen education and human capital development in the state.

The governor made the announcement during a State Executive Council meeting held in Calabar, where he outlined his administration’s next phase of governance and development priorities.

According to Otu, the decision reflects his administration’s renewed commitment to supporting students and ensuring that financial hardship does not prevent young people from pursuing higher education.

He stated that the bursary scheme, which had reportedly remained inactive for more than a decade, would be revived in the coming months to assist students studying in universities, polytechnics, and other tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

The governor also disclosed that special grants would be introduced specifically for medical students to reduce the financial pressure associated with medical training and related academic expenses.

Otu described the initiative as part of a broader strategy to invest in the future of Cross River State through education, youth empowerment, and workforce development.

According to him, education remains one of the most important sectors for sustainable economic growth and social development, stressing that no student should be forced to abandon academic ambitions because of lack of financial support.

The announcement received positive reactions from members of the State Executive Council and stakeholders who described the intervention as a major step toward improving access to higher education in the state.

The governor further revealed that his administration would intensify focus on critical sectors including health, education, and power as part of plans to accelerate development across the state.

While acknowledging progress made since assuming office in May 2023, Otu admitted that some sectors still require greater attention and renewed commitment from government officials.

He also commended the Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, for providing stability and leadership during periods of his absence.

Speaking on the state’s economic challenges, the governor said his administration remains committed to the ongoing efforts to recover Cross River’s oil wells, describing the matter as crucial to the economic future of the state.

He noted that the recovery process involves extensive consultations, negotiations, and strategic engagement with stakeholders in Abuja and beyond.

Otu expressed confidence that Cross River would eventually regain its position as a major oil-producing state despite what he described as strong opposition and complex political challenges surrounding the dispute.

The governor also directed commissioners and heads of ministries, departments, and agencies to submit detailed reports of their achievements ahead of the administration’s third anniversary.

According to him, the reports will help government showcase completed projects, evaluate performance, and present future development plans to residents across the state.

He announced that the government would soon begin inspections and commissioning of projects across the 18 local government areas while launching new development initiatives in underserved communities.

Otu urged political appointees and government officials to strengthen grassroots engagement through community visits, consultations, and direct interaction with residents as political activities gradually intensify nationwide.

On the controversy surrounding recruitment into the Unified Local Government Service, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public service.

He recalled that the government dissolved the leadership of the commission following allegations of irregularities and public complaints linked to the recruitment exercise.

According to the governor, a five-member investigative panel has been established to review the recruitment process, audit local government payroll structures, and recommend disciplinary actions where necessary.

Otu warned that anyone found guilty of misconduct, abuse of office, or exploitation of unemployed youths during the recruitment exercise would face strict consequences, stressing that his administration maintains zero tolerance for corruption and violations of due process.