The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has once again demonstrated purposeful legislative leadership as three key bills passed by the Assembly were signed into law on Monday by the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu.
The bills, the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency (Amendment) Law 2025, the Senior Citizens Centre Law 2025, and the Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law 2025 represent a major leap in the state’s legislative efforts to strengthen infrastructure maintenance, enhance elderly welfare, and improve internally generated revenue through gaming regulation.
Speaker Ayambem explained that the amended Road Maintenance Agency Law introduces a strategic financing model, mandating a 4% monthly deduction from local government federal allocations to support consistent and sustainable road repairs across the state.
He further disclosed that the Senior Citizens Centre Law will see the establishment of a central care facility in Calabar and supporting centres in all 18 local government areas, targeting vulnerable senior citizens such as retirees, widows, and the aged.
On the Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law, Ayambem noted that the legislation was a timely response to a recent Supreme Court ruling allowing states to independently regulate their gaming sectors. He said the new law will establish a comprehensive regulatory framework comprising 12 parts and 102 sections, enabling the state to unlock significant revenue streams while ensuring transparency and social responsibility in gaming operations.
“With these legislative strides, we are responding directly to the needs of our people,” the Speaker stated. “We are confident that these laws will not only expand economic opportunities but also bring dignity to our elderly and ensure our roads are consistently maintained.”
The Speaker commended his colleagues for their unity of purpose and commitment to the state’s development agenda, describing the successful passage of the bills as evidence of a responsive and people-oriented legislature.
In his remarks after signing the bills into law, Governor Bassey Otu commended the Assembly for their proactive and collaborative approach to governance. He particularly praised Speaker Ayambem for his leadership, describing him as “a stabilizing force and a dependable partner in our collective mission to put people first.”
“These laws reflect our shared vision of a functional, inclusive, and sustainable Cross River State,” the Governor said. “I appreciate the House for always rising to the occasion and delivering on urgent matters of public interest.”
Governor Otu highlighted the direct impact of the laws on the lives of citizens, especially the elderly and rural communities. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to practical governance rooted in service, compassion, and accountability.
“As we approach two years in office, we remain focused on our ‘People First’ mandate. These laws are not just policy tools, they are instruments of transformation that will touch the lives of every Cross Riverian,” Otu concluded.
Matthew Okache, anipr
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker
13/05/2025
