Stakeholders Push Transport Safety as Dr. Julius Kijuo Becomes JNTSC Chairman

Ukorebi Esien | September 12, 2025

CALABAR – The Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria (JNTSC), in partnership with the Office of the Inspector General of Police and the Cross River State Government, has inaugurated its state taskforce to enforce safety and security compliance in the haulage and transport sector.

The event began with courtesy visits to the Cross River State Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Transport, before the official inauguration of Dr. Julius Obanghe Kijuo as Chairman of the Cross River State Chapter of Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria (JNTSC). The programme later climaxed with a stakeholders' engagement on transport reforms and compliance in the haulage sector.

Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Ekpenyong Cobham, decried sharp practices in the transport sector, particularly the issuance of roadworthiness certificates without due inspection. "We cannot continue to allow people to buy certificates while their vehicles remain death traps. This is not just about policy; it is about saving lives," he declared. He urged the newly inaugurated taskforce members to see their assignment as service beyond duty. "You are not just working for man, you are working for God. Every life saved on our highways is a legacy of service."

In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Kijuo pledged to align the committee's work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Bassey Otu's People-First Agenda. Stressing the strategic role of Cross River as a border and trade hub, he promised strict enforcement of safety standards. "We will insist on regular vehicle inspections, enforcement of speed limits, prevention of overloading and spillage, and monitoring against drug abuse among drivers," he assured.

National Chairman of JNTSC, Ambassador Taiwo Oluwatamilare Mogugu, commended the state for embracing reforms, pledging support from the national body. "We are working to integrate all state transport ministries into standardized vehicle inspection systems. What is starting here in Cross River will become a national model," he said.

Stakeholders present emphasized the need for synergy among government agencies, transport unions, and security operatives to minimize road accidents and safeguard lives.

With the inauguration, Cross River joins other proactive states in reforming haulage operations and strengthening safety compliance across Nigeria's highways.

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Orok Duke Tasks CUDA, LGs on Joint Waste Evacuation Strategy

The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has called for greater collaboration between the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA) and local government councils to address the growing challenges of waste management in the state capital and its environs.

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 nylos. 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.

C'River Pensioners Elect New Chairman as Outgoing Leader Bows Out with Great Commendations

Ukorebi Esien | September 10, 2025

CALABAR — The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Cross River State Council, on Tuesday witnessed a historic leadership transition as retired Chief Magistrate, Comrade Fedilia Okpo Ene bowed out as Chairperson after two years in office, paving the way for Comrade Effiong Ita Umo to emerge as the new State Chairman.

The election and swearing-in ceremony, which took place in Calabar, was supervised by the Deputy National Secretary of NUP from Abuja, ensuring transparency and credibility. Reverend Eno Bolaji Anani was also elected Vice-Chairman of the council.

In her valedictory remarks, Okpo Ene expressed joy at completing for ability to lead the union thus far, describing her leadership journey as both challenging and rewarding. She highlighted her major achievement as securing the release of ₦10 billion by Governor Bassey Otu for the payment of gratuities owed pensioners.

"Governor Otu has been a labor-friendly and pensioner-friendly governor. He has never disappointed us, and I remain grateful to him till tomorrow. Pensioners are very vulnerable, yet he has placed our welfare at the heart of his administration," she said.

Explaining her decision to step down, the former magistrate noted that her recent appointment to the Board of State Universal Education Board, SUBEB, made it necessary to relinquish union leadership. She advised her successor to maintain dialogue with government, stressing that pensioners, as elder statesmen and women, must prioritize negotiation over confrontation.

"Please, don't be confrontational to government. Dialogue and plead as pensioners. His Excellency is open to our problems and has never been found wanting," Okunye counseled.

The supervising national officer, the Deputy National Secretary of NUP, urged members to avoid litigation in resolving union matters.

"Don't waste your time going to court. Dialogue remains the only way to settle disputes within the union. Litigation only drains resources and divides members," he advised.

On his part, the new State Chairman, Comrade Effiong Umo, a seasoned unionist and former Special Adviser on Labor Matters to the Cross River State Government, pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.

"Unionism is about dialogue, not confrontation. Pensioners deserve timely remittance of their pensions to keep them alive and comfortable. Governor Otu has set a good pace by paying pensions before civil servants' salaries. We will also push for the harmonization of pensions in line with the new minimum wage so that our members retain their bargaining power in the market," Umo stated

The election also saw one aspirant step down shortly before commencement of voting, acknowledging Umo's superior experience and suitability for the office. Nonetheless, ballots were cast to satisfy constitutional requirements before the results were formally declared and certificates of return issued.

Umo assured pensioners across the state of regular communication and cooperation with branch chairmen, promising to work closely with the outgoing leadership to consolidate on recorded gains.

Odukpani NYCN Confronts Drug Abuse, Cultism, Trains Women on Reusable Pad Production

Ukorebi Esien | September 10, 2025 

CALABAR —The Odukpani Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has taken its youth development drive to rural communities, confronting pressing social vices while empowering young women with life-changing skills.

As part of activities marking the Chapter's 2025 Youth Week, the council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Akiba, embarked on a four-hour journey to Atan Onoyom, a remote community in Eniong Abatim, where they held a town hall meeting that brought together youths from Ito, Obio Usiere, Asang Eniong, Isong Inyang Eniong, and Iboho Ito.

Addressing the gathering, Comrade Roland Akiba said the outreach was designed to extend NYCN's impact beyond urban centers by engaging grassroots youths on issues affecting their development. According to him, drug abuse, cultism, and other destructive practices continue to limit the potential of young people, and urgent intervention is necessary.

Resource persons delivered lectures and interactive sessions on the dangers of substance abuse, cult-related violence, and conflict resolution. In addition, the program featured a special empowerment session for young women, who were trained on personal hygiene and the production of reusable sanitary pads; an initiative aimed at tackling period poverty in the community.

The council distributed over 1,000 sanitary pads and further donated ₦100,000 to support ongoing youth-led initiatives within Atan Onoyom.

Community leaders, represented by Chief Effiong Ekot Eyibio on behalf of the traditional ruler, commended the NYCN for its historic visit, describing it as a timely intervention that would inspire positive change among local youths.

The Youth Week continues with a novelty football match between the NYCN and faith-based organizations, as well as the investiture of patrons and ambassadors of the council. This year's theme is "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond."

‘I Forgive Them’: NYCN Chair Opens Up on Attack, Survival and Vision for Youths

Ukorebi Esien  |  September 9, 2025

CALABAR —The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, has broken his silence following the recent attack on him in Obanliku Local Government Area, declaring that he has forgiven his alleged assailants and remains committed to advancing the cause of young people across the state.

The Youth leader who disclosed in a chat with newsmen at the Bassey Edet Otu Youth House recently in Calabar recounted how the incident left him hospitalized for days, but stressed that he bears no grudge against those suspected to have been behind the assault.

"I have chosen to forgive them because leadership is about service, not bitterness. Holding onto anger will not help us move forward as a people. Cross River youths deserve peace, unity and opportunities, and that is where my focus will remain," Olayi said.

Olayi informed that he decided to forgive his attackers after they showed remorse and took an undertaking not to be involved in such or any other detrimental action again. Adding that he believes his attackers must have learnt their lessons. 

The NYCN boss explained that while the attack was unfortunate, it has only strengthened his resolve to engage with stakeholders at all levels to secure a better future for young people. He informed that he had already met with national youth leaders in Abuja and held consultations in Calabar, with plans to convene a statewide youth conference aimed at addressing issues of restiveness, unemployment, drugs and substance abuse, and other forms of negative engagement affecting young people in the state.

He explained that the proposed conference would bring together government officials, security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and the youths themselves to find lasting solutions to challenges fueling instability among young people.

"We cannot continue to ignore the realities. Many of our youths are idle, vulnerable, and sometimes used as tools for violence. This conference will provide a platform for dialogue and action to redirect their energy towards productive ventures," he stated.

Olayi further warned against the rising wave of restiveness among young people in parts of the state, noting that unemployment, lack of opportunities, and political manipulation were pushing many into violent acts.

"If urgent steps are not taken to engage our young people positively, we may begin to see more pockets of violence that could undermine peace and development. This is why the Youth Council is calling on government, community leaders, and development partners to work with us in addressing these challenges," he added.

On his vision for the NYCN, Olayi reaffirmed his commitment to repositioning the Council as a credible platform for youth participation in governance, entrepreneurship, and peacebuilding. He said the Council would deepen collaboration with relevant ministries, agencies, and non-governmental organisations to create programs that empower young people and harness their energy for development.

He also cautioned against internal sabotage and divisions within the youth body, insisting that such tendencies only weaken the collective voice of young people in the state.

"Our strength lies in unity. Whether from the north or south of Cross River, we are first of all young people with the same aspirations. I call on all youths to put aside personal differences and work together for the progress of our dear state," he said.

The meeting which drew the attention of journalists and youth stakeholders, comes just weeks after the Obanliku incident stirred concern across the state. 

Breaking: C'River Assembly Extends Suspension of Bekwarra Council Chairman

Ukorebi Esien September 9, 2025

CALABAR —The Cross River State House of Assembly has extended the suspension of the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Ms. Theresa Ushie, for another 90 days to allow its investigative committee conclude its probe into allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

Ushie was first suspended in June 2025 after eight councillors petitioned the Assembly, accusing her of corruption and maladministration. Following her suspension, the Vice Chairman, Mr. Egbung Odama, was sworn in as acting chairman.

Presenting an interim report during plenary on Thursday, Deputy Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Dr. Davies Etta, said the Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Public Resolution had engaged both parties and held a stakeholders' meeting in Bekwarra but needed more time to gather documentary evidence.

A motion to extend the suspension was moved by the member representing of Obubra 1 State Constituency and seconded by Hon. Francis Oban of Biase state Constituency. The House adopted the motion through a voice vote.

With the extension, the suspension now runs until December 2025, when the committee is expected to present a conclusive report.

Governor Otu and the Legacy of Merit: Choosing the Next HOS

Ukorebi Esien | September 9, 2025

As Cross River State inches closer to another important transition in its civil service hierarchy, all eyes are on Governor Bassey Edet Otu. With the imminent retirement of the current Head of Service (HOS), the question on the lips of civil servants, political actors, and stakeholders alike is simple: who next?

This decision is not just about filling a vacancy. It is about defining the Governor's legacy in the public service, a legacy that will either entrench the values of merit and discipline or reinforce the old habits of favoritism and convenience.

The Place of the Head of Service

The Head of Service is not a ceremonial position. It is the engine room of the civil service,  the bridge between policy and implementation, the guardian of discipline in the bureaucracy, and the chief custodian of rules that ensure government machinery runs smoothly.

In a state like Cross River, where fiscal prudence, service delivery, and accountability remain pressing concerns, the choice of who steps into that role could make or mar the Otu administration's People-First Agenda.

Governor Otu's Guiding Philosophy

Since assuming office, Governor Otu has consistently emphasized his belief in meritocracy, fairness, and discipline. His government has been careful to place competence above cronyism, and inclusivity above sectional interests.

This philosophy is expected to guide his decision on the next HOS. In a system where some civil servants rose by default or political patronage, Governor Otu has a golden opportunity to show that only those who diligently conformed to the civil service rules,  including writing the mandatory Compulsory Examination for Administrative and Professional Officers (COMPRO) — deserve to sit at the apex of the service.

By making this choice, Otu would be sending a clear message: in Cross River State, rules matter.

The Merit Argument

Many names may be whispered for the position, but merit should stand above sentiment. One name, however, continues to resonate across the corridors of governance — Hon. Chief Ajah Francis Ajah, mni.

Ajah's trajectory tells the story of a man who did not cut corners. He started from the bottom, wrote his examinations, climbed through the ranks, and complemented his career with sterling academic and professional qualifications; ICAN, NIM, CMCICM, and most notably, the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, where he emerged as a member of the Senior Executive Course 46.

As Permanent Secretary, he has proven capacity such as growing the state's reserve funds, reconciling debts to save billions, drafting fiscal laws that attracted international grants, and consistently positioning Cross River for global recognition in public finance management.

This is the kind of profile that embodies the Governor's taste for competence and discipline.

The Equity Factor

There is also the moral argument. Currently, the South Senatorial District holds the Chairmanship of the Civil Service Commission, the Local Government Service Commission, the Accountant-General, and the Auditor-General of the State.

For balance and equity, it is only just that the Central Senatorial District produces the next HOS. Within that axis, Ajah stands out not only as a product of merit but also as a symbol of fairness in the state's political arithmetic.

Legacy Moment for Governor Otu

Every administration is remembered for certain symbolic decisions. For Governor Otu, the appointment of the next Head of Service is one of those legacy moments.

Choosing a candidate who embodies meritocracy, discipline, and professionalism will not only boost the morale of hardworking civil servants but also reinforce his image as a leader who values competence over connections. It will assure the people of Cross River that his People-First Agenda is not just a slogan but a working philosophy.

In contrast, a choice rooted in sentiment would risk undoing years of effort at instilling discipline in the civil service.

Conclusion

The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Bassey Otu, has an opportunity to stamp his name in history as the leader who restored meritocracy to the civil service.

By appointing a Head of Service whose career reflects compliance with rules, intellectual depth, and practical experience; a man like Ajah Francis Ajah, mni , Otu will not just be filling a vacancy. He will be cementing a legacy.

A legacy of merit. A legacy of discipline. A legacy that future generations of civil servants will thank him for.

Ukorebi Esien 

is a public affairs analyst, detribalised peace advocate, and development journalist. He writes from Calabar, Cross River State.

From Yam Barns to Exam Halls: The Person and Persona of George Ndifon Abang

Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang

Ukorebi Esien | September 9, 2025

 New Yam Festivals across Africa and in central Cross River specifically in Bendeghe Ekeim is often a time for thanksgiving! A season where farmers appreciate the gods for rainfall and good weather that has led to bumper harvest. The New Yam Celebrations is usually a time of merriment, feasting, and cultural display.

In Etung Local Government Area this year's new yam celebration carried a new meaning in Bendeghe Ekeim! A meaning that stretched beyond the barns of harvested tubers. This new meaning came on the heels of families heaving a sigh of relief as Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang stepped in with educational succor , sponsoring WAEC registration forms and providing grants to indigent students through the Etung Students' Association Empowerment Programme.

For the beneficiaries, the gesture was more than financial support; it was a bridge between despair and possibility. "Without this support, I would have struggled to register for my WAEC examinations," one student said with gratitude. For parents already pressed by rising costs, Abang's intervention was a reprieve that reaffirmed their faith in community solidarity.

Abang did not choose a random moment to unveil his support. The New Yam Festival in Bendeghe Ekeim has long been a cultural rallying point, drawing together elders, chiefs, youths, and sons and daughters of the soil. By linking his philanthropy to this occasion, Abang revealed a philosophy he has consistently embodied, he showed that culture should not only preserve identity but also serve as a platform for growth and renewal.

In his visits to traditional chiefs and interactions with youth groups during the festivities, Abang demonstrated what many described as a rare balance: the ability to respect and celebrate tradition while at the same time responding to the pressing needs of today.

 

The Person: Scholar, Engineer, Farmer

Behind the public gestures is a man of impressive academic and professional standing. Abang holds a B.Sc. in Agricultural Economics, a degree in Civil Engineering, and a Ph.D. in Business Management. His profile spans the boardroom, the classroom, and the farm, giving him a unique perspective on the intersection of theory and practice.

Professionally, he has served as a civil engineer and infrastructure consultant, as well as a farmer and advocate for agricultural advancement. Within the engineering community, he has held leadership roles, including as a state executive of the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE). His trajectory blends intellectual depth with grassroots connection, a combination that shapes his interventions in Etung and beyond.

 

The Persona: Philanthropist and Community Advocate

What distinguishes Abang, however, is not just his academic or professional laurels but the persona he has cultivated as a bridge-builder and advocate for youth empowerment. Through his Abon Abang Foundation, he has consistently provided scholarships, WAEC registration forms, and empowerment opportunities for young people across Etung.

Community elders hail him as a rare breed, someone who honours tradition while investing in the next generation. Youth leaders point to his ability to not only identify challenges but also provide practical solutions. "He is investing in the future of Etung as a whole," one said during the empowerment programme in Etomi.

 

A Template for Leadership

By aligning a cultural festival with an educational intervention, Abang has revealed a leadership template that speaks to both heritage and hope. The yam barns of Bendeghe Ekeim and the exam halls of Etomi are not disconnected symbols but linked expressions of a community in transition, anchored in tradition but reaching for transformation.

For many in Etung, the person of Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang is inseparable from the persona he projects: a scholar who remains a farmer, an engineer who remains a cultural son, and above all, a philanthropist who sees education as the true harvest of a people's future.

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

September 7, 2025

CALABAR — 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.

Ukorebi Esien 

Writes from Calabar 

Succour for Etung Students as George Abang Reels Out Educational Grants

Dr. Ndifon Abang empower's Etumg Students with Educational Grants 

Ukorebi Esien | September 7, 2025

BENDEGHE EKIEM — The 2025 Etung New Yam Festival in Bendeghe Ekeim took on added significance as Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang provided educational relief to indigent students by sponsoring WAEC registration and financial support under the Etung Students' Association Empowerment Programme in Etomi.

The festivities, marked by thanksgiving, traditional rites, and community engagements, showcased the rich heritage of the Etung people. Dr. Abang, a civil engineer, farmer, and scholar, began the celebration with visits to traditional chiefs and youth groups.

Abang announced his philanthropic gesture at during the Etung Students' Association Empowerment Programme, where he sponsored WAEC registration forms students and also offered financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

One beneficiary expressed relief at the support: "Without this, I would have struggled to register for my WAEC exams. Dr. Abang has given me hope to continue my education."

A youth leader at the event applauded the dual gesture: "He has gone beyond celebrating culture in Bendeghe Ekeim, he is investing in the future of Etung as a whole. This is the kind of leadership young people need."

Community elders also commended the effort, stressing that blending cultural preservation with educational empowerment sets a new standard for leadership. "It is not common to see someone honor tradition and at the same time reach out to support education across communities," a traditional leader observed.

Abang, who is also the initiator of the Abon Abang Foundation, has been consistent in promoting education, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development. His latest intervention reinforces his reputation as a unifying figure bridging the gap between tradition and modern aspirations in Etung.

By celebrating the new yam in Bendeghe Ekeim while extending succour to students in Etomi, Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang has shown that culture and development can go hand in hand in shaping a progressive community.