The Cross River State Government has begun an ambitious digital literacy and capacity-building programme aimed at transforming its civil service into a modern, paperless and technology-driven system by the end of next year.
The initiative, called the Civil Service Technology Empowerment for Capacity and High Performance (CIVTECH) programme, was officially inaugurated by the Head of Service, Orok Okon, at Prof. Eyo Ita House in Calabar.
According to the schedule, the first phase of the training, which covers Directors and Deputy Directors of Administration, runs from November 4 to 6, 2025. The second phase, for Assistant Directors, Chiefs and Principal Officers, follows from November 11 to 13, while the third, for officers on Grade Levels 8 to 10, takes place from November 18 to 20.
During the launch, Okon explained that the programme was developed in collaboration with the Cross River State CR-MEDA shortly after his assumption of office. He said it reflects the government’s vision for a modern, efficient and digitally skilled public service. “This initiative supports our goal of achieving a paperless civil service by the end of 2026. Every level of staff, across state and local government, will be trained to ensure full digital proficiency as we move toward e-governance,” he stated.
The Director General of CR-MEDA, Great Ogban, described the training as a reflection of Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to reforming the civil service under the People’s First Blueprint. He stressed that effective reforms cannot happen without technology and education, adding that the programme will improve the efficiency, speed and productivity of civil servants who drive government policies.
The Chairman of CR-MEDA, Esessien Edet, commended the state’s leadership for promoting a shift from manual to digital operations, describing the programme as a step that will enhance productivity and improve service delivery across ministries.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Office, Glory Odu Oji, said the state started with administrators because of their central role in managing data and enforcing policies. She noted that although participation is voluntary, productivity levels over time will show who took full advantage of the opportunity.
Participants hailed the initiative as progressive and impactful. Dr. Icha Mboto, Director of Administration in the Ministry of Human Capital and Entrepreneurship Development, described the programme as a timely and necessary response to the demands of a digital era. He said it will strengthen record management and streamline workflows.
Similarly, Dr. Pamela Ekuri, Deputy Director of Planning at the Ministry of Industry, praised the government’s foresight, saying the training will not only benefit today’s civil servants but also set a foundation for future generations. She noted that embracing ICT will make public service delivery faster, smarter and more sustainable.
