Otu signs new laws to boost roads, support elderly

The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has signed three new laws to improve roads, control the gaming industry, and care for elderly people.

Speaking in Calabar on Monday, Otu said the laws are “timely and strategic” and fit well with his “People First” plan and long-term goals.

The new laws are the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency (Amendment) Law, 2025, the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law, 2025 and the Cross River State Senior Citizens Centre Law, 2025

Otu said, “These laws are coming at the right time. They ensure continuous road maintenance, structured gaming regulation for revenue generation, and targeted support for our elderly population.”

The updated Road Maintenance Law now requires all 18 local governments to give 4% of their monthly federal funds to road repairs.

This was said to help keep roads in good shape all year.

The Lotteries and Gaming Law creates a new agency to license and monitor gaming activities in the state.

This will help the government earn more money and ensure fair practices.

The Senior Citizens Centre Law allows the government to set up centres across the state to care for older people, especially retired and vulnerable citizens.

Otu said his administration is focused on actions that help the people directly.

He said these new laws are key to improving roads, growing the economy, and supporting social welfare.

Source: Punch