By Joy Umo
The Cross River State Government has commenced a digital literacy and capacity building programme designed to transform its workforce into a fully technology driven civil service by the end of 2026.
The programme, known as the Civil Service Technology Empowerment for Capacity and High Performance, was formally launched at Prof Eyo Ita House in Calabar by the Head of Service, Mr Orok Okon.
Mr Okon, who assumed office in September, said the training is in line with the state government’s plan to build a modern and efficient public service that can deliver faster and more transparent services to the public.
According to the training schedule, the programme began with the first cohort comprising Directors and Deputy Directors of Administration. It is taking place from November 4 to 6. The second cohort of Assistant Directors, Chief and Principal Officers will hold from November 11 to 13. The third cohort for officers on Grade Levels 8 to 10 is slated for November 18 to 20, 2025.
Speaking at the opening session, Mr Okon explained that the initiative was developed in partnership with the Cross River State CR MEDA shortly after he took office. He said the goal is to equip every category of staff with computer literacy and digital skills as the state prepares to adopt full e governance.
He said the vision of Governor Bassey Otu for a digitally compliant civil service requires training across all cadres at both the state and local government levels. He described the programme as timely and essential for reinventing public service operations.
The Director General of CR MEDA, Mr Great Ogban, said the digital training is a practical demonstration of the governor’s commitment to civil service reform under the People’s First Blueprint. He said no reform can succeed without technology and capacity development.
Mr Ogban added that civil servants drive government policies. He said the training will enhance their efficiency, improve service delivery and increase productivity across ministries and agencies.
The Chairman of CR MEDA, Mr Esessien Edet, praised the programme as a major step toward a digitally empowered workforce. He said the initiative will improve turnaround time, boost output and encourage professionalism in the service.
The Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Office, Mrs Glory Odu Oji, said the state began with administrative officers due to their central role in data management and policy implementation. She said participation is voluntary, but productivity levels will reflect those who take advantage of the training.
Several participants described the programme as innovative and impactful. The Director of Administration in the Ministry of Human Capital and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr Icha Mboto, said it will improve digital record management and workflow processes. The Deputy Director of Planning in the Ministry of Industry, Mrs Pamela Ekuri, said the training will deliver long term benefits and support smarter and more sustainable service delivery.