In a resounding demonstration of purposeful leadership and administrative readiness, the newly appointed Commissioner for Lands, Cross River State, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, has formally assumed duty with a successful maiden meeting with the Directors and Heads of Departments of the Ministry of Lands.
The meeting, which set the tone for a new era of transparency, efficiency, and improved service delivery, brought together the leadership of the Ministry for a robust exchange of ideas, expectations, and a shared commitment to excellence.
The meeting was attended by key officers of the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary and Heads of the Estate, Accounts, Quantity Surveying, Public Relations, Architecture, Audit, Procurement, Engineering, Building, Town Planning, and Lands Departments, alongside the Technical Adviser to the Commissioner. Their presence underscored the unity of purpose and collective resolve that now define the Ministry’s leadership.
From the outset, Dr. Ekpang emphasized that his administration would be anchored on integrity, diligence, innovation, and service to the people of Cross River State. He commended the Directors for their dedication and urged them to bring renewed commitment into this new chapter of the Ministry’s operations.
He reiterated his determination to reposition the Ministry of Lands as a model of efficient public service, responsive to the needs of citizens, investors, and stakeholders who depend on the Ministry for effective land administration, documentation, urban planning, and infrastructural development across the State.
The Commissioner charged the Directors to see themselves not merely as heads of departments, but as partners in progress, entrusted with the responsibility of translating government policies into tangible outcomes that positively impact the lives of citizens. “Together, we shall build a Ministry that is known not for bureaucracy and delay, but for speed, transparency, and results,” he noted.
During the deliberations, the Commissioner and the Directors examined key areas central to the Ministry’s mandate, including stronger coordination among departments, improved revenue generation and accountability, faster land documentation processes, procurement integrity, quality service delivery, and sustainable urban and physical planning. Particular emphasis was placed on eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks, strengthening financial transparency, improving interdepartmental collaboration and aligning the Ministry’s operations with the Governor’s vision for a modern, well-structured, and properly planned Cross River State.
Each Director had the opportunity to introduce their department, outline ongoing projects, and share candid insights into existing challenges. Dr. Ekpang welcomed the contributions, describing the interaction as the beginning of an open-door leadership culture where every voice matters and every officer is valued. He assured the Directors of his support and collaborative leadership style, while calling for renewed diligence, punctuality, discipline, and professionalism across all cadres of staff.
The Commissioner also disclosed his resolve to embark on a comprehensive assessment of ongoing projects and departmental operations, with a view to instituting reforms that will enhance productivity and align the Ministry’s activities with the broader development agenda of the Cross River State Government. The meeting, characterized by warmth, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose, ended with the Directors pledging their support and commitment to the Commissioner’s vision.
As Dr. Erasmus Ekpang begins his tenure, the Ministry of Lands is poised for a new chapter defined by excellence, innovation, efficiency, accountability, and unwavering dedication to the growth and development of Cross River State.
