Negroid Haven (2025)

19/09/2025

We The People Equips Mining Community Women with Legal Tools for Justice, Advocacy
..‘Know The Law’ Workshop in Calabar Trains 25 Community Women to Challenge Rights Abuses, Shape Inclusive Policies

By Efio-Ita Nyok

CALABAR –In a move to combat the marginalization of women in mining host communities, the civil society organization WeThePeople (WTP) concluded a transformative two-day capacity-building workshop in Calabar on Thursday. The event, tagged the ‘Know The Law’ capacity building workshop under its Strengthening Women In Mining (SWIM) project, supported by the Legal Empowerment Foundation (LEF) and Grassroots Justice Network (GJN), equipped 25 women from five mining communities with the knowledge and skills to identify rights abuses, advocate for justice, and demand a seat at the decision-making table NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

The workshop’s core philosophy was driven by the Legal Empowerment Cycle—a strategic framework of ‘Know the Law, Use the Law, Shape the Law’—presented by facilitator Nsikak Udofot on the second day. This model moves beyond mere legal literacy, training participants to document injustices, leverage existing legislation, and ultimately advocate for systemic changes to laws and policies that fail to protect them.

“An empowered community is one that can recognize a problem, organize around it, raise its voice until action is taken, and create structures to ensure the problem does not return,” Udofot stated, framing the cycle as a continuous process for achieving lasting justice. He emphasized that the newly trained community women are expected to become catalysts within their communities, turning knowledge into actionable advocacy.

The first day focused on applying a gender lens to policy and negotiation, facilitated by Ndodeye Bassey-Obongha. The session exposed how women and girls are often excluded from community decision-making bodies, leading to laws and policies that negatively impact them. Through interactive exercises like the ‘Power Walk,’ which visually demonstrated disparities in influence and control, participants were guided on building support networks, developing negotiation skills, and engaging strategically with traditional and government leaders to articulate demands for inclusion.

“There is a need for women to not only recognize this discrimination but to collectively mobilize and strategically take action towards positive change,” Bassey-Obongha urged the participants.

The workshop covered practical topics, including a detailed examination of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (2007), the Land Use Act (2004), the EIA Act (1992), and the Cross River Forestry Law (2010). Participants were also trained on drafting Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and petitions as tools for accountability as well as exposed to Community Development Agreement which mining companies enter with host communities.

The expected outcome of the initiative is the creation of a robust network of 25 community paralegals who can serve as first-line defenders against rights abuses in their localities, fostering collaboration across the five beneficiary communities and ensuring that the voices of women are amplified in mining governance. Participants were exposed to the alternatives and possibilities of addressing water bodies pollution, depletion of flora/fauna, changes in skin colour and building walls cracking etc as a result of expanded mining activities using the litigation, communication and policy advocacy etc.

The ‘Know The Law’ workshop represents a critical step towards closing the gap between law and justice for some of Cross River’s most impacted yet underrepresented citizens especially those resident in
Akwa Ikot Effanga, and Akansoko communities in Akpabuyo LGA, as well as Mbobui, Abiati and Mfamosin communities in Akamkpa LGA.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/we-the-people-equip-mining-community-women-with-legal-tools-for-justice-advocacy/

18/09/2025

Stakeholders, Constituents Dialogue on Community Needs at Ward 7 Town Hall

By Efio-Ita Effiom Nyok

Ikot Effiom, Bakassi LGA — Community stakeholders, constituents, and their elected representative, Rt. Hon. Grace E. Bassey, converged on Government Primary School, Ikot Effiom, Ward 7, Bakassi Local Government Area, on Wednesday for a one-day interactive town hall assembly aimed at addressing pressing community needs and strengthening grassroots participation in governance.

The meeting, themed “Championing Community Needs,” brought together residents from the six zones and several villages that make up Ward 7. The session provided an avenue for open dialogue between constituents and their councillor, with participants highlighting issues affecting their communities while receiving direct responses from leaders and stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Rt. Hon. Grace Bassey, who represents Ward 7 in the 7th Bakassi Legislative Assembly, described the town hall as an opportunity to bridge the gap between leaders and the people. She emphasized the importance of participatory governance, noting that decisions affecting communities are best taken when constituents are carried along.

“We created this space to listen, to learn, and to chart the way forward together. Governance is strongest when it is participatory, when leaders and the people work hand-in-hand to address challenges and seize opportunities,” Bassey said.

Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) facilitated a session on voter registration, educating residents on civic responsibilities and answering questions from participants. The sensitization exercise also highlighted the importance of active electoral participation as a pathway to ensuring stronger representation.

Beyond electoral education, the assembly served as a platform to collate a database of constituents in preparation for the Federal Government’s forthcoming empowerment scheme. Stakeholders, including community leaders and representatives, took turns to respond to issues raised, ranging from local infrastructure to economic opportunities, thereby enriching the discussions.

Community members commended the initiative, describing it as the first time in years that a structured dialogue of this nature had taken place at the ward level.

The interactive town hall assembly ended with a renewed commitment by stakeholders and constituents alike to sustain the culture of dialogue and collective problem-solving in Ward 7.
https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/stakeholders-constituents-dialogue-on-community-needs-at-ward-7-town-hall/

17/09/2025

Suspected Burglars Attempt Breaking into Residence of Christmas Village Manager in Calabar

By Efio-Ita Nyok

Calabar— There was pandemonium late Friday night after suspected burglars attempted to break into the residence of Archibong Orok Edem, popularly known as “OrokFestival”, a civil servant with the Cross River State Civil Service and manager of the lucrative Calabar Christmas Village.

The incident occurred at 11:06PM on Friday at Orok’s residence on 34 IBB Way, Calabar, located close to the Akim Police Station.

According to Orok, he was at home with his wife when the intruders struck. He narrated that while two of the men parked their motorcycles in front of the house, another forced his way into the ceiling from the verandah in a bid to gain access to the living room.

“My wife heard movements despite the loud music blaring from a bar opposite the apartment. When I rushed to the living room, I saw a human leg protruding from the ceiling. I grabbed it, but the intruder slipped away and fled through the ceiling,” Orok recounted.

The suspect then leapt outside and escaped with his accomplice on a waiting motorcycle. The men reportedly sped off through Nyok Esu Street by the Catholic Church near the Nigerian Navy Barracks, Akim.

Although no lives were lost and no property was reported stolen, Orok is currently uncertain as to the inspiration behind the attack but, suspects the attack may be linked to his role in managing the highly lucrative Christmas Village in Calabar.

The case has since been reported to the Nigerian Police at the Akim Division for investigation.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/suspected-burglars-attempt-breaking-into-residence-of-christmas-village-manager-in-calabar/

17/09/2025

Ita Giwa Hails Otu for Bringing AfSNET 2026 Conference to Cross River

Calabar has been officially announced as the host city for the 2026 AfSNET Investment Conference, a milestone that firmly establishes Cross River State as a rising hub for global trade, investment, and cooperation.

The announcement has been widely celebrated across the state and beyond, as it signals not only an opportunity to attract international investors but also a chance to showcase the state’s vast potential.

Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, who has prioritized economic revival and international partnerships since assuming office, was commended for this landmark achievement.

One of the most notable voices of praise came from Senator Princess Florence Ita Giwa (OON), who described the hosting right as a defining moment for the state and a confirmation to Otu’s leadership qualities.

In her congratulatory message, the senator, fondly known as “Mama Bakassi,” lauded Governor Otu’s commitment to creating opportunities for the people of Cross River through strategic reforms and purposeful governance.

She emphasized that securing the AfSNET Conference demonstrates the governor’s foresight in positioning Calabar as not just a cultural tourism hub, but also an international investment destination.

“This is indeed a proud milestone that makes Cross River a shining pride of Africa,” Ita-Giwa said, stressing that the event will elevate the state’s profile globally.

According to her, the AfSNET 2026 Conference will provide a platform for investors, policymakers, and business leaders from across the continent and beyond to engage with Cross River’s unique opportunities in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and the blue economy.

She added that the gathering would also project the state’s renowned hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty to the world, thereby boosting its economy and opening doors to long term partnerships.

Observers note that the successful bid to host the AfSNET Investment Conference is a reflection of the Otu administration’s proactive approach to governance, which has placed emphasis on economic diversification, youth empowerment, and global visibility.

For many stakeholders and Crossriverians, the AfSNET 2026 Conference is more than an event, it is a gateway to new opportunities that will leave a lasting impact on the people of Cross River State.

15/09/2025

I had the honour of leading the Nigerian delegation to participate at the 11th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians which held in Lima, Peru, from 11th–13th September 2025.

This year’s conference, themed “Uniting Generations for Gender Equality,” brought together young legislators from across the globe to exchange ideas and chart practical strategies for accelerating progress on gender equality.

The discussions were especially timely as the world marks 30 years since the Beijing Declaration, a landmark framework that continues to inspire action toward closing gender gaps and fostering inclusive societies.

Æ
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong

15/09/2025

SENATOR ASUQUO EKPENYONG CONSTITUENCY OFFICE

We are pleased to announce the 2025 batch of scholars to receive a postgraduate foreign scholarship from the NDDC, facilitated by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong.

The beneficiaries include:

1. Nkese Itam Eyo - MSc. Artificial intelligence and Human Factors, Conventry University, United Kingdom -$40,000

2. Emmanuel Nsemo - MSc. Public Health, University of Huddersfield, United Kingdom -$40,000

3. Emmanuel Efa Ojong – MSc. Environmental Sustainability and Management, Coventry University, United Kingdom – $40,000

4. Benedict Behawhe Ogar – LLM International Business Law, Kingston University, United Kingdom – $40,000

5. Edem Edem – MSc. Safety, Health and Environmental Management, University of South Wales, United Kingdom – $40,000

6. Lawrence Eko-Owai -Msc. Environmental Sustainability and Management, Conventry University, United Kingdom -$40,000

7. Rose Asikpo-Okon- Msc. Data Science, University of Chester, United Kingdom -$40,000

8. Obun Cletus - MSc. Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cranfield, United Kingdom -$40,000

9. Agatha Okoro - MSc. Data Science, University of East London, United Kingdom -$40,000

10. Helen Abang -MSc. International Business, Ulster University, United Kingdom -$40,000

11. William Undebe - MSc. Civil engineering, University of Salford, United Kingdom -$40,000

The Distinguished Senator wishes them the best of luck and hopes that they will not only excel in their studies, but return to contribute to the growth and development of our State and our Nation at large.

Signed
Ted Inyang
Senior Legislative Aide
14/9/25

11/09/2025

Centre L*D’s ILI Fellow Grace Bassey Champion Sustainable Agriculture in Cross River

By Efio-Ita Nyok
..Esighi Community Sensitized on Climate-Smart Agriculture as Women Adopt Home Gardening

Grace Bassey, an Intersectional Leadership Incubation (ILI) Fellow with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre L*D), has flagged off a climate adaptation sensitisation campaign in Esighi community, Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River state. The initiative, which emphasises household gardening and organic farming, is designed to strengthen resilience against food insecurity and the harsh impacts of climate change NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.

Speaking at the event, ILI Fellow Bassey said the project was borne out of her fellowship work under Centre L*D and is focused on equipping vulnerable communities with practical strategies to survive in an increasingly unstable climate. “Climate change is not a distant conversation—it is already shaping our reality. Our goal is to help Esighi and other communities adapt through home-based food systems that are affordable, sustainable and environmentally friendly,” she explained.

The sensitisation also touched on the growing nexus between climate change and security in Bakassi, where fragile livelihoods and environmental degradation often fuel tension. Bassey noted that as farmlands shrink and crop yields fall, communities face heightened risks of conflict, displacement, and hunger. “When food is scarce, the fight for survival becomes desperate. But when families can grow their own vegetables and sustain themselves, it reduces pressure and insecurity,” she added.

To guide participants through the technical aspects of the programme, Mr. Joseph Edet Ekpo from the Cross River Agricultural Development Project (CRADP) served as a facilitator, demonstrating how households can create organic manure from locally available materials. He warned that the overuse of chemical fertilisers has damaged soils, polluted water bodies, and worsened environmental hazards. “Organic alternatives are safer, cheaper, and help the soil to recover. If adopted widely, this will not only improve yields but also protect the environment from further harm,” Ekpo explained.

Similarly, Comr. Ukeme Ekong of Onyx Community and Development Foundation another facilitator who spoke on the myth and facts of organic manure, focused on the practicalities of home gardening and community-level adaptation. According to her “it is a myth to say organic manure alone is enough for high crop yields.” However, she noted that “while it enriches the soil, manure may not supply all the nutrients crops need in large quantities, Farmers often combine it with compost, crop residues, or small amounts of inorganic fertilizer for best results.”

She told participants that self-reliance in food production is a critical response to the rising cost of food in the markets. “Right now, a cup of pepper goes for as high as ₦2,500. Families cannot survive under this pressure. But with household gardens, you cut down costs, feed your family, and even generate surplus for sale,” he said.

The security angle resonated with Esighi residents, many of whom lamented the double burden of climate-induced hardship and social tension in Bakassi. They acknowledged that climate-smart farming could reduce the triggers of conflict, especially among the youth. One community elder observed that food insecurity often drives young men into illicit activities, noting that empowering households with alternatives is a step toward peace.

Particularly, one of the participants Madam Eyo Eyo Otu in her remarks, described food security as “a matter of survival for Bakassi communities especially Esighi Clan comprising 18 villages,” adding that projects such as Bassey’s are crucial in cushioning the impact of climate shocks. “We cannot leave our communities at the mercy of rising food prices and depleted farmlands. Every intervention that empowers families to produce food sustainably is welcome and deserves support,” Otu declared.

Bassey pledged continued technical guidance to communities, stressing that adaptation is a long-term process requiring persistence and collective buy-in. “This is not a quick fix. But if every family adopts just one or two of the practices shared today, we will see a transformation in household food security within a year,” she predicted.

Residents of Esighi expressed optimism that with Bassey’s initiative and the support of experts, they can begin to secure their food needs, reduce insecurity, and inspire other localities to follow suit.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/centre-lsds-ili-fellow-grace-bassey-champion-sustainable-agriculture-in-cross-river/

10/09/2025

NDDC’s Orok Duke Urges CUDA, Councils to Tackle Calabar Waste Crisis Together

Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has urged the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA) and local government councils to adopt a joint strategy for waste evacuation, stressing that collaboration is key to improving sanitation in the state capital and surrounding areas.

Duke made the appeal during the official handover of waste bins to the chairmen of Odukpani, Calabar South, and Calabar Municipality local government areas. The ceremony, which held in Calabar, was witnessed by the Executive Secretary of CUDA, the Special Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Barr. Akiba Ekpenyong, and the Member representing Calabar Municipality in the Cross River State House of Assembly.

Speaking at the event, Duke expressed concern over the absence of waste bins in some parts of Calabar, particularly Marina, where residents have resorted to dumping refuse on the streets and in open nylons. He stressed that effective evacuation, not just the provision of bins, must remain the priority of all stakeholders.

“Our role as NDDC is not to take over the responsibilities of state agencies but to augment them,” Duke said. “CUDA must work in harmony with the local governments, and while we support with bins, there must be a clear evacuation plan to prevent indiscriminate dumping, especially in inaccessible areas where trucks cannot easily enter.”

He further warned against politicising the distribution of waste bins, insisting that equitable allocation across wards and communities is necessary for environmental safety.

The Executive Secretary of CUDA, while receiving the bins, acknowledged the challenges of waste evacuation in densely populated areas but assured that the authority would work with the local councils to harmonise routes and ensure a cleaner city.

The three local government chairmen who received the bins welcomed the intervention but admitted that the quantities allocated were insufficient to meet the needs of their councils. The Chairman of Calabar South lamented that some areas, such as Marina, had lost their bins entirely, forcing residents to dump refuse on the ground. His Calabar Municipality counterpart noted the peculiar challenge of narrow streets in areas where evacuation trucks cannot pass, stressing the need for a coordinated approach with CUDA to ensure effective waste collection.

On his part, the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area urged for a fairer and more equitable distribution of bins across communities, arguing that densely populated areas would require reinforcement to avoid overflow and indiscriminate dumping.

Also speaking, Barr. Akiba Ekpenyong commended the intervention, describing it as a timely support to the state government’s urban renewal efforts. He called on residents to take ownership of the facilities and avoid acts that would undermine the cleanliness of their environment.

The lawmaker representing Calabar Municipality, who was present at the handover, lauded the synergy between federal interventions and state agencies, urging continuous dialogue to sustain a coordinated approach to urban sanitation.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/nddcs-orok-duke-urges-cuda-councils-to-tackle-calabar-waste-crisis-together/

10/09/2025

Groups Partner to Tackle Child Malnutrition in Calabar South

Calabar – A child nutrition campaign is set to kick off in Calabar South as the Yolk of Hope Initiative and the Ememobong Humanitarian Foundation move to address malnutrition among pupils in public schools NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.

The initiative, tagged “One Egg, One Child, Per Day,” will begin on September 22 at Apostolic Primary School, Idang. It is designed to provide school children with daily access to protein as part of efforts to improve learning and health outcomes.

Ahead of the launch, representatives of both organizations on Monday paid a courtesy visit to the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, His Royal Highness Nyong Effiom Okon I JP to seek the support of traditional institutions. Chiefs of the community and members of the media were also present.

Apostle Williams Ohaeri, founder of the Yolk of Hope Initiative, said the project was conceived in response to rising cases of malnutrition among school-aged children in Cross River. He warned that poor nutrition in early years could have long-term effects on education and productivity.

Assoc. Prof. Esther Archibong, Executive Director of the Ememobong Humanitarian Foundation, added that the campaign requires collective effort to succeed. “No single organization can do this alone. We need leaders, communities, and partners to work together,” she said.

In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler Okon I welcomed the project and pledged his palace’s support, describing it as timely. He said the involvement of traditional institutions was vital to ensuring the programme’s acceptance at the community level.

Available data show that Cross River State has one of the highest rates of childhood undernutrition in southern Nigeria, with health experts warning that the situation threatens both academic performance and long-term human capital development.

Observers note that while food security remains a national challenge, community-driven initiatives such as this could complement government policies and interventions.

The September 22 launch is expected to draw participants from government, civil society, and the education sector, with organizers hopeful that the campaign will be scaled up to other parts of the state if successful.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/groups-partner-to-tackle-child-malnutrition-in-calabar-south/

08/09/2025

From Banking Halls to Policy Halls: The Inspiring Journey of Ajah Francis Ajah

In every generation, there are men and women who rise through the ranks not by shortcuts or sentiment, but through grit, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service. Hon. Chief Ajah Francis Ajah, mni, stands tall in that category. His story is not just about personal success, but about the triumph of diligence, merit, and resilience in a system where conformity to rules often takes the back seat to patronage.

Born in Ebom, Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State, Ajah’s journey reflects the quintessential Nigerian dream, from humble beginnings, through the rigors of academia, the challenges of the banking sector, and into the demanding but noble service of government.

Banking Halls: Building the Foundation of Discipline

Before finding his permanent footing in the public sector, Ajah made his mark in Nigeria’s banking industry. Rising from the ranks of Finance Control Officer to Branch Controller in First Interstate Bank and later Unity Bank, he mastered the fine art of financial prudence, risk management, and institutional discipline.

In a world where numbers tell the story, Ajah proved himself as a thoroughbred professional. He headed treasury management units, reconciled complex accounts, supervised interbank settlements, and reviewed risk assets. His tenure in banking was defined by transparency and accountability (qualities that would later become the cornerstone of his public service career).

Policy Halls: Shaping Cross River’s Financial Landscape

Ajah’s transition from banking to public service was seamless, thanks to his firm grounding in finance. When he joined the Cross River State civil service, he quickly distinguished himself as a man of ideas and action.

From serving as Head of State Financial Policy Management at the Ministry of Finance to coordinating critical World Bank and United Nations-assisted projects like the State Governance and Capacity Building Project (SGCBP) and the State and Local Governance Reform (SLOGOR), Ajah became a household name in reform-driven circles.

He played a pivotal role in drafting and passing key financial legislations such as the Public Finance Management Law (2011) and the Fiscal Responsibility Law (2011), both of which attracted multi-million-dollar World Bank grants to the state.

As Permanent Secretary in several ministries — Housing, Debt Management office, New Cities, and now Finance; his tenure has been marked by innovation. Notably, he grew the State Reserve Fund from ₦4 billion to over ₦11 billion, reconciled the state’s debt structure to save more than ₦20 billion, and consistently prepared Debt Sustainability Reports that unlocked further international grants.

Scholar and Teacher: Nurturing the Next Generation

Ajah is not just a technocrat in government corridors; he is also a scholar committed to nurturing future leaders. As a part-time lecturer at Arthur Jarvis University, University of Cross River State, and even the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), he imparts knowledge to young minds eager to shape Nigeria’s future.

Armed with an MBA, M.Sc., and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Accountancy, Ajah represents the rare blend of practitioner and academic. His research interests span corporate governance, fraud prevention, and dividend policy, critical issues for Nigeria’s economic future.

The Prestige of NIPSS: A Feather in His Cap

In 2024, Ajah achieved what many civil servants only dream of, he graduated from the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, Senior Executive Course 46. With that, he joined the exclusive ranks of Nigerians entitled to the post-nominal title “mni” (Member of the National Institute).

For Abi Local Government, it was historic: Ajah became the first civil servant from the area and the second from the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency to ever accomplish this. For Cross River State, it further cemented his reputation as one of the brightest minds in the service.

Merit Above Sentiment
At a time when meritocracy is often sacrificed on the altar of favoritism, Ajah’s story is a reminder that discipline and conformity to civil service rules matter. He diligently wrote the Compulsory Examination for Administrative/Professional Officers (COMPRO), a mandatory test many of his peers sidestepped. That single act reflects his faith in process and rules, positioning him as a civil servant who earned every promotion.

This is why many see him as the natural fit for higher responsibility. With the office of the Head of Service of Cross River State set to become vacant soon, Ajah’s name is already being mentioned in hushed tones as one of the most qualified replacements, not because of lobbying, but because of a career steeped in merit, capacity, and vision.

A Life Beyond Service

Outside of work, Ajah is a man of community, faith, and family. He has served his people politically as a councillor and Deputy Leader in Abi Local Government, as well as in advisory roles at the state level. His hobbies; football, swimming, and reading these all reveal a man who values balance.

But perhaps his greatest strength is his reputation: colleagues describe him as disciplined, approachable, and deeply loyal to Cross River State.

Conclusion: A Journey Still Unfolding

From the banking halls of Unity Bank to the policy halls of Cross River State’s Ministry of Finance, Ajah Francis Ajah has built a career that embodies the values of merit, discipline, and patriotism. His life is proof that hard work, adherence to rules, and a commitment to service can still open doors in Nigeria.

For Cross River, his story is not just inspiring, it is a guidepost for what the future of its civil service can be.

Egbe Joseph Williams
Writes from Calabar
https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/09/from-banking-halls-to-policy-halls-the-inspiring-journey-of-ajah-francis-aja

08/09/2025

Ekpenyong Akiba Credits Gov. Otu as He Empowers Constituents with Financial Support

The Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Barr Ekpenyong Akiba in a sustained effort to touch lives at the grassroot level has empowered over 60 beneficiaries across his constituency with financial support ranging from up to Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000).

The funds are targeted at trading, farming, healthcare, and tuition fees, depending on the individual needs of recipients.

While this phase focused on financial assistance, Barr. Akiba disclosed that the next round will feature the distribution of empowerment items to further strengthen livelihoods.

Significantly, this initiative will be the second empowerment outing by the Governor’s aide, demonstrating his consistency in ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach his people at the local level.

The event attracted key political stakeholders, including the Executive Secretary of CUDA, the Leader of the Legislature, councillors, ward chairmen, and the wife of the Special Adviser on General Duties, all of whom applauded the effort.

Speaking during the exercise, Barr. Akiba credited the program’s success to the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, whom he described as a leader committed to creating opportunities for his appointees to deliver value to their people.

“I remain profoundly grateful to His Excellency, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, and his dear wife for the privilege and platform to serve.
This empowerment is possible only because of the Governor’s enabling environment and commitment to the ‘People-First’ agenda.

Today, we are extending the benefits of his government to the very people who have always stood by him,” Akiba said.

Beneficiaries expressed excitement, describing the intervention as timely support in an economically challenging period.

Many pledged to channel the funds into sustainable ventures that would enhance their livelihoods and strengthen their families.

The program further highlights the inclusive development drive of Governor Otu’s administration, ensuring that no community is left behind as leaders like Barr. Akiba extend empowerment to the grassroots

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