Budget Retreat: Speaker Ayambem Urges Legislators To Support Gov Otu’s Development Plan

By Matthew Okache

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has urged the State’s Assembly Members to support Sen. Prince Bassey Otu’s development plan, which is deeply entwined with the “People’s First Budget, noting that the “N250 billion budget, revealed on October 26, 2023, is evidence of the Otu’s dedication to uplifting Cross Riverians.

Ayambem announced this on Wednesday during the State’s House of Assembly-organised three-day Budget Retreat in the Ikom Local Government Area, Cross River State.

According to Ayambem, “The 2024 Appropriation Bill, affectionately known as the “People’s First Budget,” reflects a commitment, a pact between the Legislative and the Executive arms to work harmoniously for the greater good of the people we represent; it is not merely a title.”

Hon. Ayambem further charged the Assembly Members to use the three-day retreat to examine the budget’s complexities and discover its significant advantages for Cross Riverians. Stating that the 2024 budget is audacious in its scope, promising a significant leap forward for the state. “It is a roadmap, a guiding light towards a future where our people thrive in a landscape of prosperity.”

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“As we deliberate, let us stand in unity, working in tandem with the Executive to refine and perfect this audacious plan. Today, more than ever before, we must align ourselves with the vision of the Governor, making changes where necessary and collaborating seamlessly to realise our shared objectives.,” Ayambem noted.

Additionally, Ayambem encouraged the Legislatures to be patriots, worthy representatives, and architects of positive change, that will script a legacy that resonates with the aspirations of every Cross Riverians.