DR. ERASMUS EKPANG RESUMES AS LANDS COMMISSIONER, HOLDS FIRST MEETING WITH DIRECTORS

Calabar, Cross River State — The newly appointed Commissioner for Lands, Cross River State, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, has officially assumed duty, setting the stage for what is expected to be a new phase of efficiency, accountability and improved service delivery in the Ministry.

Dr. Ekpang, who resumed office with a maiden meeting with Directors and Heads of Departments, used the engagement to outline his expectations and priorities for the Ministry while listening to the various departments on their ongoing activities, challenges and areas requiring urgent attention.

The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary and Heads of the Estate, Accounts, Quantity Surveying, Public Relations, Architecture, Audit, Procurement, Engineering, Building, Town Planning and Lands Departments, as well as the Commissioner’s Technical Adviser.

Addressing the Directors, the Commissioner stressed the importance of integrity, diligence, innovation and professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities. He urged the directors to see themselves as critical partners in delivering the policies and programmes of the Cross River State Government, particularly in the areas of land administration, documentation, urban planning and physical development.

Dr. Ekpang said his administration would work towards reducing bureaucratic delays and strengthening transparency and accountability in the Ministry. He also called for improved collaboration among departments, faster processing of land documentation, effective revenue generation and greater efficiency in the delivery of services to citizens, investors and other stakeholders.

The Commissioner further emphasized the need for strict adherence to procurement procedures, financial accountability and sustainable urban and physical planning. He noted that the Ministry must align its operations with the broader development vision of the Cross River State Government and contribute meaningfully to the orderly development of the State.

The Directors, in turn, introduced their respective departments, highlighted ongoing projects and presented some of the challenges affecting their operations. Dr. Ekpang welcomed their contributions and described the interaction as an important first step towards building an open and collaborative leadership structure within the Ministry.

He assured the Directors of his willingness to work with them while urging all members of staff to demonstrate punctuality, discipline, commitment and professionalism in the performance of their duties.

The Commissioner also disclosed plans for a comprehensive assessment of ongoing projects and departmental operations. According to him, the exercise will help identify areas requiring reform and ensure that the Ministry’s activities are better aligned with the development priorities of the State Government.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with the Directors expressing their readiness to support the new Commissioner and contribute to the achievement of his vision for the Ministry.

With Dr. Erasmus Ekpang now at the helm, the Ministry of Lands is set to begin a new chapter focused on efficiency, accountability, innovation and responsive land administration in Cross River State.

— Ekpang’s Media