Inside Cross River News

Category: Politics

  • Opinion: The Appointment Of Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba As Chairman Governing Board of RRIN Benin, Puts Cross River State On The Threshold–Amb. Kanjal Awam

    Opinion: The Appointment Of Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba As Chairman Governing Board of RRIN Benin, Puts Cross River State On The Threshold–Amb. Kanjal Awam

    By Amb. Kanjal Awam

    The appointment of Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba as Chairman Governing Board of Rubber Research Institute, Benin, by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is a huge feather and will further bolster the sociopolitical dynamics of the state and open up a lot of vistas. Recall that the Cross River State governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu and Deputy Chairman of South South Governors Forum have been instrumental in stabilizing the politics of the region.

    With Prince Otu Cross River State has played pivotal roles in driving the political processes that saw the victory of the All Progressives Congress winning in Edo State and Imo States. Although strategically positioned in the region, but not adequately rewarded in the political bargaining. Before the appointment of Ntufam Prince Hilliard Eta, Chairman Governing Board of National Youth Service Corps and Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, Chairman Governing Board of Rubber Research Institute, Benin, there was a yawning gap in Cross River State in appointments into Federal boards and parastatals in the Tinubu’s administration.

    The commendation of Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba appointment by Amb. Kanjal Awam, Publisher/Editor in Chief of Inside Cross River News Magazine, is not just a nod on Eba’s competence, and verve but to curry the magnanimity of Mr President to ask for more dividends for Cross River State. His impressive journey in public life is coming at a time when the state is officially flagging off the construction of Special Agro Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) in Cross River State by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and soon to commence the construction of the Cross River stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Highway.

    As Cross River State APC Chairman he has united the party in the midst of fierce turbulence, a dogged stickler of the Renewed Hope mantra and a famous Political Evangelist, the appointment of Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba has further demonstrated President Tinubu’s knack for outsourcing excellence and a listener of the people’s yearnings and aspirations.

    As Secretary of the Forum of State Chairmen who led a delegation of State Chairmen in 2024 to the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to appeal for reward for Party stalwarts including States Chairmen of APC, the results has yielded dividends as the President kept to his promise with the appointment of all 36 States Chairmen of APC into various boards.

    Interestingly, the state is in a new political threshold following the appointment of Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba by the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) into the Seven man Constitution Review Committee of the party. This has not only consummated Eba as a dogged party man but a figure to reckon with in the All Progressives Congress.

    Congratulations to Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba.

  • State of Emergency in Rivers State: C’River Acting Governor Backs Tinubu’s Decision

     

    The Cross River State Government has formally dissociated itself from the South-South Governors’ Forum’s reservations regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing its full support for the federal government’s decision to restore order amid escalating unrest.

    In a press release issued on Thursday by Barr. Fred Abua, Press Secretary to the Acting Governor, the state clarified that Acting Governor Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey was neither consulted nor informed prior to the forum’s public statement criticizing the presidential directive.

    The forum, comprising governors from Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone, had expressed concerns over the constitutionality and implications of the emergency declaration.

    The press release underscored Dr. Odey’s alignment with President Tinubu’s decision, describing it as “a necessary step taken in the best interest of national security, peace, and stability.” It further stated, “Every responsible government must prioritize the protection of lives and property, and where circumstances necessitates decisive action, such measures must be supported for the greater good of our democracy and national unity.”

    The statement reiterated Cross River State’s commitment to constitutional governance and collaboration with the federal government to address security challenges. It emphasized that the forum’s position “does not reflect the views of the Cross River State Government,” citing the lack of prior consultation as a critical factor.

    The press release concluded with a call for unity: “Cross River State remains committed to upholding constitutional governance and will continue to collaborate with Federal Government in ensuring peace, security, and stability across the country.”

  • RT. HON. PETER ODEY, THE PERFECT DEPUTY GOVERNOR

    A visionary leader, an astute thinker, and a man of unwavering integrity, Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, PhD, has distinguished himself through his dedication to excellence and service. From his early years of student activism to his distinguished career in public service and development, he has consistently demonstrated a rare blend of intellect, charisma, and compassion. His story is not just one of personal success but of inspiring others, shaping policies, and fostering meaningful change. It is only fitting to reflect on the values he embodies and the legacy he continues to build.

    Hon. Peter Odey’s journey to prominence gained international exposure through his role as a Conflict Advisor at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with assignments in Kuwait, Sudan, and Abuja. He later served as the Head of Risk Management and Security at the British High Commission before transitioning to politics to pursue his aspirations of public service.

    Dr. Peter Odey’s initial foray into politics was not without challenges. The resilient fighter who has come to be known by some as the ‘gentle lion’ once contested and lost both the chairmanship of his Local Government Council and the State House of Assembly seat before his eventual election as the representative for Ogoja State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly in 2015. Re-elected in 2019, he went on to serve as the Leader of the House. From that moment, his political trajectory witnessed a meteoric rise, culminating in his current position as Deputy Governor of Cross River State.

    As a legislator, Hon. Odey made an indelible impact, championing policies that advanced education and sustainable development. He sponsored the landmark bill that transformed the Cross River State University of Technology (CRUTECH) into the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS). This visionary legislation expanded the university’s academic scope, allowing it to admit students into disciplines such as medicine and law – opportunities that previously required Cross Riverians to seek education in federal universities or outside the state at great expense. The transition also created numerous job opportunities for citizens.

    Beyond this achievement, Hon. Odey sponsored eight additional bills and moved eleven motions, including legislation that established the State Polytechnic and another that domesticated the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His legislative contributions reflect his deep commitment to improving education, infrastructure, governance and general well being in Cross River State.

    While fulfilling his legislative duties, Hon. Peter Odey was also known for his generosity and quiet philanthropy. Through scholarships, bursaries, and job placement support, he uplifted his constituents, helping many secure opportunities in the military, civil service, and beyond. His ability to lobby the executive arm for jobs and political appointments further cemented his reputation as a leader who prioritizes the welfare of his people.

    As Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey plays a crucial role in the Senator Prince Bassey Otu administration, which has remained committed to its ‘People First’ mantra. Both the Governor and his Deputy recently inspected ongoing projects across the state, including the 12-km Ndok Junction-Abakpa-Igoli-Moniaya Ring Road, internal roads in Igoli, the 5-km Eboh-Ukelle-Benue Road, rehabilitation works on the Bekwarra axis of the Ogoja-Vandeikya, construction of Governor’s Lodge in Ogoja, Restoration of Power Supply to Bekwarra LGA after 15 years of outage, installation of Solar Powered Street Light along Igoli-Okuku Road and the Obudu International Cargo Airport (to mention only some of the projects in Northern Cross River State where the Deputy Governor comes from). Many of these projects are nearing completion, a testament to the administration’s commitment to infrastructural development.

    Beyond his political office, Hon. Odey has personally invested in his community, establishing a hotel in Ogoja that provides direct employment for more than 50 people, most of whom are from the local area. His initiative serves as an example to privileged sons and daughters of Ogoja, demonstrating that development can be driven from within rather than focusing solely on investments in larger cities.

    Regrettably, some people have remain fixated on superficial expectations of political leadership, measuring effectiveness solely by the number of widely publicized “empowerment” programs which often benefit only a few party faithfuls. The standard empowerment items – such as sewing machines, motorcycles, and tricycles – often end up being sold off, with recipients using the funds for entirely different pursuits. Although Hon. Odey has engaged in these ‘empowerments’ and will continue to do so, his focus has always tilted more to meaningful, behind-the-scenes support that directly transforms lives and improves the standard of living for his people. He now prioritizes targeted interventions tailored to the specific needs of individuals, ensuring more sustainable impact.

    True leadership extends beyond handing out resources – it requires vision, patience, and the ability to navigate governance effectively. As Deputy Governor, Hon. Odey’s responsibilities span policy implementation, conflict resolution, and state-wide governance. It is not surprising though that some mistakenly expect him to run an independent agenda from that of the Governor; they fail to understand that a performing Deputy Governor is one who aligns with and strengthens the vision of the Governor, rather than operating in conflict with his principal.

    Many Deputy Governors across Nigeria have strained relationships with their principals because they misunderstand their role, attempting to outshine or operate at odds with the Governor. Dr. Peter Odey is far too astute for such miscalculations. He understands that his duty is to provide unwavering support to his principal, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, recognizing that the administration’s collective achievements are also his own. His loyalty and strategic approach have contributed to the Governor’s resounding success, as evidenced by the numerous transformational projects across Cross River State.

    Rt. Hon. Peter Odey has demonstrated strategic leadership, political acumen, and administrative effectiveness, making significant contributions to the stability and progress of Cross River State. His impact should not be judged by his consistent dedication to governance, policy direction, and crisis management.

    Today, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, an embodiment of true leadership exemplified by long-term progress, strategic vision, and the ability to effect lasting change, is Acting Governor while His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu is enjoying his well deserved annual leave for the next 3 weeks.

    _Barr. Fred Abua (JP) is Press Secretary to the Acting Governor of Cross River State_

  • Senator Stephen Odey: A Prophet with Honour Home and Abroad

     

    By Paul Ojeka

     

    Similarly, he has broken the glass ceiling, defying all odds. He has overcome numerous factors and constraints to alter the age-old aphorism that a prophet is honoured everywhere except in his family, hometown, and beyond.

     

    For precision, he is honoured and revered in his family as a pillar of the home. He copiously delivers on his parental role as a unifier, provider, protector, and paraclete. Indeed, he is the impartial head of the family, loved and respected by all connected to him through family ties.

     

    In Yache, his hometown, he is widely known by the honorary title: Oyorgu1 of Yache, which means an effective and efficient capacity-filled personage and rescuer personality. This title likens him to Moses in the Bible, one with the salvific role of leading his people out of bondage.

     

    To say the least, in virtually all five major clans in Yache, there is a title for him based on his sociological perspective, as he responds to the needs of the community. Recently, in unanimity, he was christened: Iyella1 of Yache, a title that defines him as the Light of the community.

     

    These numerous titles underscore his popularity, acceptance, and unflinching inputs in the socioeconomic revolution of Yache. Recall that over the years, Yache was completely relegated to socioeconomic stagnation, sandwiched between political marginalization and infrastructural underdevelopment, until his emergence as the topmost political figure with a top-notch agenda to pull Yache out of the woods!

     

    Interestingly, there is now visibility of government presence, evident in the ongoing road construction, availability of political appointments, and civil service jobs. Opportunities abound, with newly constructed school plants and heightened awareness and activeness in political participation.

     

    As a result, his selfless investments of time and resources in distributing empowerment tools have paid off. He has set the people free from the darkness of political ignorance, apathy, and disdain for politics.

     

    Consequently, Yache now churns out almost the highest vote cast across the wards in the 18 Local Government Areas of the state. In the last general election, it boasted higher vote casts in some Local Government Areas, with the votes in the entire wards put together.

     

    With his Rescue Mission mantra guiding him, he has excelled in public service. As Cross River SUBEB Chairman, he recorded breathtaking reforms, unprecedented in the history of Cross River State’s education subsector. He achieved giant strides in renovating and building schools across the state, improving academic standards, and enhancing teachers’ welfare.

     

    The same feat was recorded during his tenure as Acting Managing Director, Cross River State Water Board Ltd (CRSWBL). These achievements earned him numerous awards from prestigious educational communities, reputable groups, associations, and corporate organizations.

     

    Meanwhile, he has received dignifying titles across communities in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State.

     

    Senator (Associate Prof) Stephen Odey has built himself properly for the onerous administrative task as Commissioner for Education. He enjoys the reputation of being a “triple former”: former senator, former CR-SUBEB Chairman, and former Acting Managing Director of Cross River State Water Board Ltd (CRSWBL). He holds seven degrees, including two Doctorate Degrees: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Sociology and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Law.

     

    Others include Master of Law (LL.M), Master of Science in Industrial Sociology, B.L. from the Nigerian Law School, Abuja, Nigeria, Bachelor of Law (LL.B Hons.) Second Class Upper Division, and Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) Honours.

     

    Currently, under his watch as Cross River State Commissioner for Education, he is replicating similar reforms achieved as Cross River SUBEB Chairman through his Rescue Mission mantra. With his meticulous service culture, supported by the firm support of the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, he has recorded breathtaking strides.

     

    These strides are noticeable in his control of sharp practices, such as illegal collection of fees by some school administrators, closure of illegal schools, free registration of secondary school students in NECO/WAEC, uniform resumption dates for all primary and secondary schools in the state, and ensuring effective service delivery by teachers to achieve educational goals and objectives.

     

    The evidence is clear: the recent improvement in performance of students in their WAEC and NECO exams.

     

    In the 9th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while representing the Northern Cross River Senatorial District, he was a standout performer. Adjudged one of the most vibrant senators due to his active participation and valid contributions in various committees, including legislative tasks on the floor of the House, he sponsored five bills and moved two motions of critical national interest.

     

    Apparently, the numerous awards from reputable formal organizations, clubs, and institutions, with incorruptible measurements and evaluation tools, underscore the honour he enjoys from his family, the Yache Nation, subnational and national governments, and even beyond Africa’s borders – thanks to his notable scholarly publications in reputable international journals.

     

    This colossus, an academic giant, astute administrator, legal luminary, maverick politician, ambassador of the poor, and effective public servant, is not only a source of pride for his family, Yache, Cross River North, and Nigeria, but also for humanity at large, given his vast influence that extends far beyond his immediate community.

  • Senator Stephen Odey Sues For Peace and Unity  Among Maa and Wonye Clans

    Senator Stephen Odey Sues For Peace and Unity  Among Maa and Wonye Clans

     

    Senator (Associate Prof) Stephen Odey, Oyorgu 1 of Yache Nation, emphasized the crucial role of peace and unity in fostering development during a peace meeting held at his Okuku Yala residence today, urging delegations from MAA and Wonye clans to promote a culture of harmony and cooperation.

    Senator Odey, who is a member of the Cross River State Executive Council as Commissioner for Education and leader of Yache Nation, stressed the importance of peace and unity during the peace meeting, charging traditional leadership and youths to recognize the benefits of peaceful coexistence. Going forward, anyone who instigates or perpetuates trouble in the community will be apprehended and held accountable under the law, he emphasized.

     

  • The Economic Viability Of Ukpagada Bridge: Senator Jarigbe Agom’s Functional Citizens Needs Assessment

    The Economic Viability Of Ukpagada Bridge: Senator Jarigbe Agom’s Functional Citizens Needs Assessment

    By: Inside Cross River News Editorial

    Before the advent of the 10th National Assembly, Cross River North has been in the backwaters of misrepresentation, poor representation and underdevelopment. We have had Senators who didn’t understand the business of legislation, out of sheer abandonment wasted their term as Senators and betrayed the People’s trust.

    However, there was a ray of hope when Distinguish Sen Jarigbe Agom was elected Senator representing Cross River North. In his thinking you have to build a bridge and see if development won’t connect the people. Isaac Newton was very succinct when he said “we build too many walls without enough bridges”. When you carry out a needs assessment on Nkum communities, the feedback you will get will amaze you. The people had yearned for a Messiah who would give them a voice at the National Assembly and facilitate the development of their communities.

    Before Senator Jarigbe Agom embarked on this all important project, the people had voted for a bridge builder who would link their communities and bring about rapid socioeconomic development. From Nkum Irede down to Nkum Iborr, the story is the same. Alas! God has answered their prayers by giving them the People’s Senator, a representative par excellence.

    Legislative business is a bit cumbersome, enacting people-oriented bills, engaging in oversight, and lobbying. First of all identifying the needs of your people, you articulate them and then outline them in their order of priority is not really easy going by scarce resources and rigorous procurement processes. The magic wand with which Senator Jarigbe Agom uses to influence projects through lobbying government ministries and agencies is a topic for another day.

    The Ukpagada-Ukpe-Alladim-Igodor link bridge will have an unprecedented impact on the lives and livelihood of these communities. Going by the agrarian nature of Nkum people, facilitating this gigantic project will open up and boost food production, reduce rural-urban drift and put money in the pockets of our peasant farmers who can’t assess Abakpa or Okuku Markets to sell their farm produce.

    Senator Jarigbe has proven that he understands the business of legislation, as Senate Committee Chairman on Gas he has steered his Committee to aid the Federal Government implement the CNG transition of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Also as part of his oversight functions, Senator Jarigbe has not relented in intervention programmes, health care outreaches, agric inputs to farmers in the planting season, empowerment initiatives, provision of solar powered boreholes, and construction of schools. He has since embarked on rural rehabilitation of electrical works in Nkum Irede, solar powered street lights in Ogoja, Yala, Obudu, Obanliku and Bekwarra local governments.

    With this and many more, Senator Jarigbe Agom is the first and last man standing to liberate Cross River North!

  • Beyond 60 Days In Office: Hon. Egbala Bassey Setting New Benchmarks in ABI Local Government Area

    By: Pst Imoke Etorti, PhD

    Southern Correspondent, Inside Cross River News Magazine

    Background

    The Executive Chairman of ABI Local Government Area, Hon. Egbala Bassey is a highly skilled professional administrator, visionary, entrepreneur, and a distinguished political leader with a proven track record in human capital development, hails from Imabana 1, in ABI LGA, Cross River State, Nigeria. Before getting the mandate to become Chairman of ABI LGA, Hon. Bassey dedicated many years of service to the University of Calabar (UNICAL), where he rose through the ranks to become Senior Assistant Registrar. His extensive career also includes notable roles such as Office Assistant to Prof. James Epoke, the former Vice Chancellor of UNICAL, Personal Assistant to Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former Pro Chancellor of UNICAL, and Assistant Protocol Officer to Prof. Zana Akpagu, former Vice Chancellor of UNICAL.

    In addition to his academic and administrative achievements, Hon. Bassey has made significant contributions to politics, serving as ABI Coordinator, State Treasurer, and Acting State Public Relation Officer of “Prince is Coming Movement”. His leadership abilities extend beyond governance, as a key player for ABI All Stars Football Club he also served as Special Adviser on Intelligence to former Governor Benedict Ayade. A dynamic and multifaceted leader, Hon. Bassey’s career mirrors his unflinching commitment to excellence, service, and the advancement of his community.

    A Glimpse At His 60 Days In Office As Chairman And Beyond

    His first 60 days in office as Chairman of ABI Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Egbala Bassey has proven to be a guiding light of transformative leadership, weaving a narrative of action, vision, and commitment to his people. His dynamic approach to governance has been a masterclass in strategic collaboration, prompt responses to community needs, and the nurturing of partnerships that hold the promise of a prosperous future. From receiving his certificate of return to embarking on a comprehensive needs assessment tour, Hon. Bassey’s tenure has been marked by swift and decisive actions aimed at revitalizing ABI Local Government infrastructure, health, and security sectors. His inclusive leadership style, and forward-thinking, has already ignited hope for ABI Local Government which will thrive under the banner of unity, progress, and collective engagement.

    In these first two months, Hon. Bassey has not only addressed immediate concerns such as a thorough renovation of the ABI Local Government Council Secretariat, health outreach programs, and security but has also laid a foundation for long-term development through the appointment of key administrative officers, but also held strategic meetings with stakeholders. His approach to governance is rooted in thorough assessments, community engagement, and collaboration with local and national figures which signals a new dawn for ABI. Through his flagship free medical outreach, he is fostering community ties with traditional rulers, he also is boosting the local economy at Cross River State Trade Fairs. Hon. Egbala’s leadership mirrors the promise of a brighter, more united ABI Local Government. Beyond 60 days in office is a proof of his fervent dedication to the well-being of his people, setting the stage for a future defined by sustainable growth and holistic development.

    His Key Appointments:

    Hon. Egbala made strategic appointments to strengthen his administration and drive progress within the community. On November 20, 2024, he appointed Dr. Jeremiah Ani as the Secretary of Council, Enya Elloi Ideba as Chief Press Secretary, Egbina Augustine Urom as Chief Protocol Officer, Echi Achi Evemili as Personal Assistant Administration, and Bassey Bassey Egbe as Personal Assistant on Logistic. On November 28, 2024, Hon. Egbala nominated and later inaugurated seven nominees on December 6, 2024 as Supervisors including Hon. Wilfred Nkanu Inah (Education), Hon. Enang Aboli Azogor (Due Process), Hon. Ivara Moses Ejah (Works), Ms. Blessing Enya Edwin (Health), Mr. Stanley Emmanuel Ekpe (Environment), Mrs. Joy Soniwa Ekom (Finance), and Mr. Bassey Evans Igiri (Agriculture). These appointments reflect his commitment to ensuring effective governance and a collaborative approach to tackling the Local Government challenges.

    Hon. Bassey has continued to solidify his administration by further appointing Barr. Victor Bassey Eni as Legal Adviser and Hon. Friday Ernest Okpa as Special Adviser on Peace and Security. His appointment is made with keen consideration on experience and the need for an inclusive leadership structure, highlighting his determination to bring qualified professionals into his administration, enabling him to address the Local Government’s diverse needs. He also appointed eight Special Advisers (SA) having Mr. Nevolor Eja as SA on Youth development, to mention but a few.

    Healthcare:
    Hon. Bassey ABI-led Administration is marked by significant strides in improving healthcare access and community well-being. A major highlight was the launch of the transformative ABI/Yakurr Free Medical Outreach Program, which brought essential healthcare services to underserved communities such as Agbara and Ngarabe in Ekureku, ABI and in Imabana 1 & II in ABI. This initiative, spearheaded by Chief Dr Alex Egbona directly benefited hundreds of residents, providing free medical consultations, treatments, and healthcare supplies.

    In addition to these medical outreach efforts, Hon. Bassey demonstrated proactive leadership by dispatching a medical team to Ebom to assess and provide immediate intervention for their health concerns. This move has exemplified his swift response to public healthcare needs. His administration also prioritize collaboration with healthcare professionals, as seen in the engagement with the Director of Healthcare for ABI Local Government Council, Mrs Christina Iwara to engage in health campaigns during the World AIDS Day which was celebrated on December 1, 2024. These initiatives reflect Hon. Bassey’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and ensuring the well-being of ABI people through short and long-term strategies.

    Peace and Security:
    Hon. Egbala Bassey prioritized the security and safety of ABI Local Government, with the appointment of Hon. Okpa Friday as SA Peace and Security and forging significant partnerships with various security agencies. One of the key steps was his strategic collaboration with the 245 Recce Battalion of the Nigerian Army and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Itigidi Police Station, where discussions focused on strengthening security infrastructure and enhancing coordination to protect the community. Furthermore, Hon. Bassey convened security meetings with leaders to ensure effective strategies for maintaining law and order, underlining his commitment to creating a safe environment for residents and businesses alike.

    Hon. Bassey recognizes the importance of resolving interstate conflicts and safeguarding ABI borders. He participated in a crucial sensitization meeting with the Interstate Boundary Commission at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, aimed at addressing boundary disputes between Cross River and Ebonyi states. This engagement was a proactive effort to foster peaceful coexistence and resolve any lingering issues that could affect ABI’s stability. By addressing both internal and external security concerns, Hon. Egbala Bassey has laid a strong foundation for a secure and prosperous ABI, aligning with his broader vision of development and community welfare.

    Hon. Egbala Bassey warmly honored Nigeria’s fallen heroes on Armed Forces Remembrance Day at ABI Local Government Secretariat. Through inspection of the parade, laying of the wreath, his steering address, generous support, and commitment to Veterans’ welfare, he vividly showed a strong resolve to strengthen security partnerships. An act that speaks volume and mirrors a leader with immense dedication to peace, unity, honoring the enduring legacies and valor of these veterans.

    Economic Enhancement:
    Hon. Egbala Bassey has laid a solid foundation for economic enhancement in ABI Local Government Area, through strategic initiatives and key collaborations. His leadership took a focused approach towards revitalizing critical assets, particularly with the assessment of the Songhai Farm, a once thriving agro-industrial venture, with plans to restore it as a key economic driver. Furthermore, his visit to the Ministry of Finance shows his commitment to fostering economic growth, where he sought support for ABI in terms of budgetary allocations and project prioritization. His active participation in the 2024 Local Government Economic Summit (LGES) in Abuja provided a platform for networking and acquiring insights to improve governance and sustainable development in ABI. Additionally, Hon. Bassey initiated a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with First Bank to reactivate the Itigidi branch, ensuring greater access to financial inclusion for local businesses and communities.

    Hon. Egbala’s administration has also set the stage for strengthened revenue generation, with plans to constitute a revenue generation committee to streamline and enhance the collection of taxes and levies within the LGA. His emphasis on collaboration with financial institutions, government bodies, and economic stakeholders signals a forward-thinking approach to improving ABI economy, fostering a climate of growth and prosperity for all residents.

    Strengthening Community Ties

    He has made significant strides in strengthening community ties and fostering unity across ABI Local Government Area. His administration has actively engaged various community groups, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence and collaborative development. Notably, Hon. Bassey met with HRM Ovai Elder Osim Edward JP, Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, Chief Bolaji Anani, Mboti Community, Lehangal Community, Itakonghor Community and hosted ABI traditional rulers during the “Season of Sweetness” event. These interactions reinforced his commitment to working closely with traditional institutions, ensuring their support for local governance, transparent revenue management, and enhanced security.

    Hon. Bassey’s efforts in partnering with community-based organizations, such as the Egbala is Coming Campaign Support Group and local medical outreach programs is the icing on the cake. By collaborating with groups like the Cyclist Union, security agencies, and the medical teams for the ABI/Yakurr Free Medical Outreach, Bassey has ensured the inclusion of grassroots voices in governance, boosting both social and economic empowerment. His leadership style, built on open dialogue and inclusivity, has laid a solid foundation for ABI’s growth, peace, and harmonious development.

  • Beyond 60 Days In Office: Hon. Christopher Agbeh Embarking On A Transformative Journey

    Beyond 60 Days In Office: Hon. Christopher Agbeh Embarking On A Transformative Journey

    By: Amb Kanjal Awam

    The Local Government administration is the third tier of government and closest to people. The supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy gave the people a ray of hope and a sigh of relief as expectations of the people are now high and responsibilities for Council Chairmen is glaring. It’s beyond 60 days into the administration of Hon. Christopher Agbeh, Executive Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, and Inside Cross River News Magazine is keeping tabs on the achievements of the Chairman.

    Recall that Governor Bassey Otu inaugurated the 18 Local Government Council Chairmen on November 4th, 2024, with a charge on them to be transparent and deliver dividends to the grassroot. So far, Hon. Christopher Agbeh has not rested on his oars, he has embarked on far reaching initiatives and executed policy decisions that have distinguished him among his peers.

     

    On assumption of office, Hon. Christopher Agbeh has executed his mandate with a high level of dedication and ingenuity. He has maintained the pace through smart initiatives, policies and programs. To curry the support of the grassroot he has embarked on radical decisions that form the nucleus of his administration from day one.

    Security and transport infrastructure are pivotal to the socioeconomic development and transformation of the people. While security guarantees the safety of lives and property, transport infrastructure fosters human interaction, movement of goods and services, socioeconomic development and wellbeing of the people.

    The launch of the Ogoja Council Line shuttle Services by Hon. Christopher Agbeh in December 2024, was a game changer for transportation infrastructure for Ogoja. Investigation by our Reporter in Ogoja, reveals that the transportation burden is eased, people now have alternative means of transportation as competition is rife. Before now transport fares to Ndok Junction was ranging between #1500 and #2000, but with the launch of the Council’s Shuttle Services, a ride is now #500 to Ndok Junction, giving the people a new lease of life.

    One of the parameters for measuring sustainable development is the Human Development Index (HDI). It is a statistical composite index of life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators, which is used to rank countries into four tiers of human development.

    Going by our assessment, beyond 60 Days in office of 18 Council Chairmen in Cross River State and placing Ogoja side by side with other Local Government Areas. The scorecard and deliverables are high, suffice to say that the records are a clear indication of early start which speaks for itself. At the launch of the Ogoja Council Shuttle Services, Governor Otu lauded the Chairman’s early achievements, particularly the unveiling of a mass transit fleet within just one month in office, an impressive feat accomplished without external funding. The Governor pledged to return to Ogoja with additional support and goodwill. Reacting during the launch of Ogoja Council Line Shuttle Services, the Chairman Hon. Christopher Agbeh reiterated his commitment to improve the living conditions of the people. The statement reads; “to aggressively reduce poverty, hunger and hardship, thus the floating of the Bus Shuttle will reduce transportation fare and increase IGR as well as engage the youths meaningfully”.

    Another milestone recorded by the Chairman is the launch of Okada Riders Vest. Before now activities of Okada Riders were left unchecked, with criminals infiltrating the business to unleash mayhem on law abiding citizens. Highlighting the launch of the Security Vest for Okada Riders, Hon. Christopher Agbeh said it is part of his commitment in enhancing the living conditions of the people and boosting the infrastructural development of Ogoja.

    Like the African proverb that says you will know a good dancer by his dance steps. Hon. Christopher Agbeh has paid the supreme price for quality representation, Ogoja is in for real business of good governance.