Yuletide Outreach: Otu’s Wife, Abon Abang Foundation Feed 100 Widows in Obubra, Etung LGAs

By Judex Okoro

In the true spirit of Christmas, the wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoawan Itam Bassey Otu, through her humanitarian initiative, Humanities Without Borders, in partnership with the Abon Abang Foundation, has extended love and compassion to widows in Obubra and Etung Local Government Areas.

The yuletide outreach reached no fewer than 100 widows across the two LGAs, providing food items and other essential support aimed at easing their burden and enabling them to celebrate the season with dignity and joy.

Representing the First Lady during the outreach was Dr. Inyang Asibong, former Commissioner for Health and Special Adviser on NGOs, who led members of the Humanities Without Borders team to the beneficiary communities.

In Obubra Local Government Area, the delegation was formally received by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Leonard Ogwa, alongside members of the council's executive, who commended the gesture and described it as timely and impactful.

Similarly, in Etung Local Government Area, the outreach team was warmly welcomed by the Wife of the Council Chairman, Mrs. Akinne Anom, in the company of the Executive Director of the Abon Abang Foundation, Engr. George Ndifon Abang, PhD.

Speaking during the distribution exercise, Engr. Abang explained that the outreach was conceived to ensure that widows and other vulnerable persons are not left out of the joy associated with the Christmas season.

According to him, "This initiative is about sharing love, warmth, and hope. Christmas teaches us to care for one another, especially those who need our support the most. We will continue to look into the needs of widows and vulnerable persons within our communities."

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Abon Abang Foundation, in collaboration with the First Lady's office, to sustained humanitarian service and interventions that promote dignity and social inclusion.

The outreach drew heartfelt appreciation from beneficiaries, many of whom described the gesture as a source of relief and renewed hope.

One of the beneficiaries from Etung, Mrs. Jessica Agbor, expressed gratitude, saying the support made her feel remembered and valued during a difficult period.

"It is not easy to live without a husband, especially during festive seasons like this," she said. "Sometimes, it feels like the community has forgotten you. But this gesture shows that we are not alone. We sincerely thank the Governor's wife and the Abon Abang Foundation for remembering us."

The outreach further underscored the dedication of Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoawan Itam Bassey Otu, and the Abon Abang Foundation to promoting compassion, inclusion, and social responsibility across communities in Cross River State. 

UPHOLDING MERIT AND FAIRNESS: A COMMENDATION OF RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP

In a political climate where public confidence in institutions is often tested, moments of fairness and transparency deserve not only recognition but commendation. The ongoing process leading to the emergence of Dr. Okimba Peter Etaba, as the preferred candidate for the position of Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, stands out as an example of how leadership should function guided by merit, due process, and institutional integrity.

We sincerely appreciate His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Apostle, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for ensuring an atmosphere that allows competence to thrive and due process to prevail. By enabling a free, fair, and transparent selection process, the Governor has once again reinforced his administration's commitment to people-centred governance and respect for established procedures. Such leadership reassures citizens, particularly young people, that excellence and hard work still matter in public affairs.

Equally deserving of commendation is the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, under the chairmanship of Distinguished Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, The Council's adherence to laid-down guidelines and its conduct of a credible selection process reflect institutional maturity and a deep sense of responsibility. Senator Ita-Giwa's leadership in overseeing a process anchored on merit and fairness demonstrates statesmanship and respect for the sanctity of collective decision-making.

The emergence of Dr Okimba Peter Etaba

is therefore not accidental, nor sentimental. It is the outcome of qualification, performance, and credibility. His academic background, administrative capacity, and understanding of the institution's mission position him as the right choice to provide purposeful leadership that will strengthen academic standards, institutional growth, and community relevance.

Importantly, Dr. Etaba's emergence also carries symbolic significance. Obubra Local Government Area, despite its demographic strength and long-standing contributions to the development of Cross River State, has over the years remained underrepresented in key strategic appointments. His selection therefore represents not just merit rewarded, but inclusion advanced, an affirmation that every part of the state belongs and matters in the collective journey of progress.

We congratulate Dr. Okimba Peter Etaba on this well-earned recognition and commend the Governing Council for a decision that reflects fairness, balance, and foresight. We are confident that his leadership will justify the trust reposed in him and bring pride to the institution, Obubra, and Cross River State at large.

It is now our respectful expectation that this commendable process be brought to its natural and honourable conclusion. We call on the Governing Council to finalize its recommendation by ensuring the timely transmission of Dr. Etaba's name through the Federal Ministry of Education to the Presidency for final approval, announcement, and inauguration. Completing this process will further strengthen public trust and preserve the credibility of all parties involved.

When leaders choose fairness, they earn lasting goodwill. When institutions uphold merit, they inspire confidence. This moment offers an opportunity to affirm both, and history will remember it kindly. 

 

–Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Development, Obubra Chapter

CAVEAT:

This opinion represents solely the views of the Obubra Chapter of Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Development and is expressed in the interest of promoting merit-based leadership, institutional integrity, and inclusive development. It does not purport to reflect the positions of The Daily News, its staff or management nor any government institution, political party, or public office holder.

Fed. Poly Ugep: Youth Group Hail Otu, Ita-Giwa over Choice of Rector

A youth-based civic organisation, Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Development (Obubra Chapter), has commended the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, over what it described as a transparent and merit-driven process that led to the emergence of Dr. OKimba Peter Etaba as the preferred candidate for the position of Rector.

In a statement issued and published on social media, (Wetin Sup Today Facebook handle) the group praised Governor Otu for fostering an atmosphere that allowed due process and institutional independence to thrive.

We commend His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for allowing a free, fair, and transparent process to take place. This reflects a leadership style that respects merit and strengthens public confidence in governance, the group said.

The youth group also lauded the Governing Council of the institution, under the leadership of Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, for adhering strictly to established procedures in the conduct of the rectorship interview and selection exercise.

 "The Governing Council, led by Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, demonstrated maturity and integrity by conducting a credible process anchored on laid-down rules. This is how public institutions should function, the statement added.

According to the group, Dr. Etaba emerged from the exercise based on merit, having satisfied all statutory requirements and performed credibly during the screening and interview stages.

'⁸Dr. Kimba Peter Taba's emergence was not accidental. It was the outcome of qualification, competence, and a transparent evaluation process. He has the academic and administrative capacity required to lead the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, at this critical stage of its development," the group noted.

Beyond merit, the organisation said the selection also advances the principle of inclusive representation, pointing out that Obubra Local Government Area has historically remained underrepresented in key strategic appointments despite its demographic and electoral significance.

"For Obubra, this development is both encouraging and symbolic. It sends a strong message that no part of the state should be excluded when qualified candidates are available," the statement said.

The group congratulated Dr. Etaba on his emergence and urged the Governing Council to conclude the process by ensuring the timely transmission of his name through the Federal Ministry of Education to the Presidency for final approval and inauguration.

"We respectfully call on the Council to complete this commendable process by transmitting the recommendation to the appropriate authorities. Doing so will preserve the credibility of the institution and the integrity of the process," the group stated.

The organisation emphasized that its position represents a civic intervention in support of good governance and merit-based leadership.

 "Our intervention is purely civic and driven by the desire to see fairness, due process, and institutional integrity upheld in Cross River State and Nigeria at large," the statement concluded.

Read full statement here Obubra Youth Statement on Fed POLLITEECNIC UGEP

Who Will Wear the Crown, as 22 Young People Jostle for Stardom

Ukorebi Esien  | December 16, 2025

CALABAR – The city of Calabar is once again set for an evening of glamour, talent and youthful ambition as 22 young contestants compete for honours at the 11th edition of the Entrepreneur Queen Nigeria (EQN) High School Program and Awards, scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025. at the Akai Efa Town Hall, MCC Road, Calabar.

Organised by Gold Touch Organisation, the annual event has grown into a respected platform for discovering, mentoring and celebrating young talents in entrepreneurship, leadership and the creative arts. The 2025 edition, themed "Emerging Starz," will see participants drawn from secondary schools showcasing their skills through fashion displays, runway presentations, dance, creativity and enterprise-driven performances.

Activities for the day will begin with an Ankara Carpet session at 5:00pm, followed by the main event at 6:00pm, featuring competitive showcases, entertainment performances and award presentations.

A major highlight of the ceremony is the Entrepreneur Queen Nigeria Initiative (EQNI), segment, focused on "Transforming Young Women in Leadership and the Creative Economy." Through this initiative, young girls are encouraged to develop confidence, leadership capacity and entrepreneurial thinking.

The event will also host distinguished guests, with the Commissioner for Education, Cross River State, Senator Dr. Stephen Odey, attending as Special Guest of Honour, reinforcing government support for youth empowerment and education-focused programmes.

Over the past eleven editions, the Entrepreneur Queen Nigeria platform has consistently produced confident young leaders and creative talents, many of whom have gone on to excel academically and socially. As the curtains rise on the 2025 edition, all eyes will be on the stage as the 22 contestants jostle for stardom and the ultimate crown.

With colourful performances by dancers, comedians and guest artistes, the night promises inspiration, excitement and celebration of youthful potential, as Calabar waits to see who will wear the crown.

Ebokpo Empowers 250 Students, 55 Widows, Rice Farmers In Obubra

 

Ovat Lawrence  | December 16, 2025

In a sustained demonstration of compassion and people-focused leadership, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, KSM, has awarded bursaries to 250 students across various tertiary institutions under the second edition of the Johnson Ebokpo Bursary Scheme.

The empowerment programme, held over the weekend in Obubra Local Government Area, also featured the distribution of household items, cash support and other palliatives to 55 widows, as well as the provision of mechanised farming inputs to 14 rice-producing communities in the area.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Ebokpo expressed profound gratitude to God for His guidance and sustenance, while appreciating His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for the opportunity to serve and positively impact lives.

The Commissioner also extended appreciation to the First Lady, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu for serving as a model through her numerous humanity programmes.

He prayed for sustained grace to continue serving the people of Obubra and commended the event's planning committee led by Dr. Cletus Omono and Hon. Solomon Ekam for their effective coordination of the programme.

Community members and beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the Commissioner's generosity, offering prayers for divine reward and greater accomplishments in his service to humanity.

Representing the Traditional Rulers' Council, HRH Ovat Bob Mbina Mbina Ajom III described the empowerment initiative as epoch-making, noting that despite being an appointee, Hon. Ebokpo has surpassed the achievements of many elected officeholders. He prayed for expanded opportunities for the Commissioner to further impact society.

In separate remarks, the Chairman of the event Dr. Sylvernus Odong, Prof. Enang the key note speaker, Mr. Albert Ovat, President of Federation of Obubra students Association worldwide (FOSA WW), and Comr. Ndoghi Ogidi, President of NACRIS UNICAL Chapter, both commended the Commissioner's consistent benevolence, called for greater responsibilities to be entrusted to the Honourable Commissioner 

A major highlight of the event was the defection of Comrade Eno David, PDP Ward Chairman of Ofumbongha-Yala, alongside several supporters, who attributed their decision to the Commissioner's people-oriented initiatives. Comrade Eno thanked Hon. Ebokpo for his generosity and prayed for sustained grace in his leadership journey.

The programme was further enlivened by cultural performances, including the Eweweh dance from Ofumbongha Number 3, Ekana dance from Ovonum, Ntime and Idang dance from Ogada communities.

The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, university dons, captains of industry, and party supporters from both state and local government levels.

Colour, Culture, Chieftaincy Titles Mark 4th Edition of Bunya wa Efut Festival

Ukorebi Esien | December 14, 2025

CALABAR – The city of Calabar was awash with colour, pageantry and deep cultural symbolism on Saturday as the Efut Nation staged the 4th edition of the Bunya wa Efut Festival, a celebration that blended rich traditional heritage with modern spectacle and royal grandeur.

Held at the Atu Field along Mayne Avenue in Calabar South Local Government Area, the festival attracted a large turnout of traditional rulers, government officials, political leaders, academics, cultural troupes and indigenes of Efut Nation from across and beyond Cross River State.

The atmosphere was electrifying as traditional drummers, dancers and masquerades took turns to thrill the audience, offering vivid expressions of Efut history, maritime livelihood and ancestral identity. Clad in colourful traditional regalia, chiefs and clan heads processed ceremonially to pay homage to the Muri Munene of Efut Nation, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Itam Hogan Itam Nnankor, JP, the Natural Ruler and Grand Patriarch of the Efut people.

Declaring the festival open, the Chairman of the Occasion, Etubom Architect Bassey Eyo Ndem, described Bunya wa Efut as a powerful platform for cultural revival, unity and pride, noting that the festival has grown in scope and significance since its inception.

"This celebration affirms who we are as a people. It is about honouring our king, preserving our heritage and projecting the Efut Nation to the world," he said, before formally declaring the 4th Bunya wa Efut Festival open.

A major highlight of the festival was the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles on eminent Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to governance, education and societal development. Among those honoured were the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his wife, Her Excellency, Bishop (Dr.) Mrs Eyoanwan Itam Bassey Otu. The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem also received a chieftaincy title.

Other awardees included the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, senior academics such as serving and former vice-chancellors of tertiary institutions, federal and state legislators, and notable professionals from various sectors.

In his royal message, delivered at the event, the Muri Munene traced the ancestral roots of the Efut people to Southern Cameroon and reaffirmed the nation's place as one of the indigenous communities of the Cross River Basin. He used the occasion to call for renewed commitment to the preservation of Efut culture and values, while appealing for support towards the revitalisation of the traditional palace.

Beyond the speeches and honours, the festival remained a visual spectacle, with royal processions, rhythmic drumming, traditional songs and communal celebration dominating the venue well into the day.

Organisers described the 2025 edition as a significant milestone, noting that Bunya wa Efut has evolved into a major cultural event that complements Cross River State's tourism and Christmas celebration calendar.

As the drums faded and festivities drew to a close, participants expressed optimism that the annual celebration would continue to grow, strengthening cultural identity, unity and pride among the Efut people while showcasing their heritage to a wider audience.

C’River to Enforce Approved Vehicle Colours, Security Numbers, Kicks against off Colour

Ukorebi Esien  |  December 15, 2025

CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has announced that it will commence full enforcement of the use of state-approved colours and a mandatory security number system for commercial vehicles across the state with effect from January 31, 2026.

The directive was issued by the Ministry of Transportation in a press release dated December 15, 2025, and signed by the Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. (Pst) Ekpenyong Ene Cobham.

According to the statement, the enforcement exercise will apply to all commercial vehicle operators, transport unions and other stakeholders within the state's transportation sector. The ministry said the policy is aimed at promoting uniformity, safety and accountability in public transportation.

The government stressed that it does not recognise the re-introduction of off-colours or any deviation from officially approved state colours, warning that all operators are required to comply fully with the regulation.

"The Ministry emphasises that it does not recognise the re-introduction of off-colours or any deviation from the approved State colours," the statement read, adding that defaulters will face sanctions as stipulated by law.

The ministry explained that the security number system and state-approved colours are designed to strengthen regulation within the transport sector, enhance public safety, safeguard lives and property, and align with the state government's broader vision for a clean, safe and well-regulated transportation system.

Transport operators and stakeholders were urged to embrace the directive in good faith and ensure compliance ahead of the enforcement date.

For further clarification, the ministry advised operators to contact the Ministry of Transportation at its headquarters located at the Water Board Premises, 147 Ndidem Usang Iso Road, Calabar.

The Cross River State Government reiterated its commitment to improving transport management and security across the state through effective policy implementation and stakeholder cooperation.

Five Special Advisers Helping To Enable The Sweetness Agenda

Dominic Kidzu | December 13, 2025

The strength of a leader or lack thereof sometimes depends on his advisers and subordinates, especially in a complex framework such as government. This is why some chief executives are fastidious and very intentional about the people they entrust certain strategic offices to in terms of their intellectual capacity, work history, human relations and even personal peccadillos and nuances. 

In Governor Bassey Otu's government, five Special Advisers stand out to me for having achieved their core mandates, and some, which has buoyed up the overall positive performance of the administration so far. The choice of these five Special Advisers was made through my singular perspective and therefore it is subjective and by no means the result of a forensic scientific evaluation. If you think differently, I will respect your perspective too. 

1. BARR. EKPENYONG AKBAR: 

SPECIAL ADVISER, SPECIAL DUTIES

Probably the most active member of the entire government. Young, energetic and upwardly mobile, he is a longstanding ally of Governor Bassey Otu, all the way back to when the governor was a member of the National Assembly. It is impressive that he has not taken his close relationship with his boss for granted and has planted his footprints all over the state in service to the people. It was pleasant seeing him meander through the difficult roads in Boki on his way to the second term endorsement in Boje sometime last year. 

There is hardly a local government area he has not gone to in representative capacity for the governor. His role for the position of special duties seem to have been very well thought out because he is an adviser who doesn't wait to be prompted, who sets his own agenda and who leaves no stone unturned. He carries the administration wherever he goes to and the people see him as a critical part and parcel of government. He is by all means the governor's Man Friday and also the chairman of the forum of special advisers. 

2. BARR. GILBERT AGBOR

SPECIAL ADVISER, ASSET MANAGEMENT AND RECOVERY. 

Young, cool-headed and impassioned, Gilbert Agbor is a young attorney from Etung local government area who seems to have dedicated his life to the optimum management and recovery of public assets with a single-minded mission to protect their inviolability that has spared neither friend nor foe. Under his leadership the department has reclaimed several government properties including houses and lands illegally acquired by unscrupulous government officials and has even received some awards from private institutions for his good works. 

The governor himself lauded Agbors efforts aas both courageous and impactful. "Agbor has shown a rare blend of tenacity, integrity and a high sense of duty. His work has brought to light many assets that have either been abandoned or illicitly acquired." It is for his tenacity and integrity that I believe he has contributed to the People First aganda and enabled good governance in Cross River State. Unfortunately, most of his best works cannot be exposed here because of the sensitive nature of the department. Take your flowers, Barrister Gilbert Agbor. The civil servants are also very happy that for the first time there is a complete inventory of government owned assets throughout the state as directed by the governor and implemented by the department. No one can in the future appropriate government property for their personal use without following officially certified channels. 

3. RAPHAEL MURPHY ADOGA:

PROJECT MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The core mandate of this department is to function as the governor's independent watchdog on capital projects and to ensure that these projects are delivered according to specified scope, budget, timeline and standards using key performance indicators. To this end the Special Adviser has truly delivered on his mandate by the way he has rigorously applied himself to the task and pressured contractors to stick to their various targets and frameworks. 

Adoga has been uncompromising when it comes to bills of quantity. It was his reports that led to the termination of the initial contact for the renovation of the state library complex, leading to its eventual takeover by the office of the Commissioner for Special Duties. He also halted the construction of a bridge in Yala local government area because piling was not included in the bill of quantities until the contract was reviewed and piling included. For his dedication to duty and attention to specifications, Murphy has been of great value to the administration. 

4. MR. LINUS OBOGO

SPECIAL ADVISER/CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

Linus Obogo came to the job with a wealth of experience both in the newsroom and in the corridors of governmental power. He was an understudy to Christian Ita, the longest serving Chief Press Secretary in the history of Cross River State, who served both governor Liyel Imoke and Ben Ayade, and that was after his very fruitful years at the Vanguard newspapers. Simple, jovial and humble, Linus Obogo is a wordsmith in his own right who string English words together like a cobler putting together  cracked shoes during harmattan. 

Interestingly, it is not his prodigious grammatical prowess that only stands him out, it is also his amiable disposition and passion for the well-being of all journalists both in service and in retirement. This fellow feeling has endeared him to his colleagues and helped to win more media friends for the government and kept social commentary about the administration on an even keel.

5.MAJ. GEN. OKOI UBI OBONO

STATE SECURITY ADVISER

Major General Obono (rtd) is a former army general with enormous experience in tactical and intelligence work, which has had a lot of bearing in the way he has delivered on this assignment. Even though details of security matters are not publicly shared in the media it is obvious that working in concert with other security agencies he has been able to bring down the crime rate in the state. 

Before he came into the job, incidents of kidnapping had become a frequent occurrence in the state, especially around the state capital. There is no doubt that he has been able to send most of these boys packing. Today, the people of Cross River are now able to sleep with their two eyes closed while the state has dropped very low in the national crime index. For ensuring a general atmosphere of peace and security in the state, the SSA has tremendously contributed to enabling Governor Bassey Otu's sweetness agenda.

My appreciation goes to the governor himself, for his keen discernment in selecting an excellent team of mostly young people to work with him. These hidden diamonds would not have had the opportunity to excel this way if the governor did not discover and appoint them into office.

C'River Consultative Forum to Inaugurate Elders Advisory Council Thursday

CALABAR — In line with Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu's renewed drive to rebuild trust and strengthen unity across Cross River State, the; Elders Advisory Council of the Cross River State Consultative Forum will be inaugurated Thursday 11, December 2025. TDN can authoritatively report.

The event is part of the Forum's ongoing effort to strengthen political harmony, enhance grassroots coordination, and support effective governance across the state.

Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Calabar, the Chairman of the Forum Eyo Nsa Ekpo said the inauguration marks "a major step toward institutionalising consultative leadership" that reflects the collective wisdom of statesmen and community leaders.

He disclosed that former Governor Clement David Ebri will chair the Elders Advisory Council. The announcement coincides with Ebri's birthday, which the Forum described as "a symbolic alignment that reinforces the importance of his role."

Also speaking, the Forum's Treasurer, Sir Maurice Effiwat, explained that the 18 Local Government Coordinating Committees being inaugurated alongside the Council will serve as the "operational backbone" for mobilising citizens, guiding local engagements, and fostering inclusive participation across the three senatorial districts.

"These committees will help us deepen consultation and ensure that every community feels represented in the broader conversation about Cross River's future," he said.

The Secretary of the Forum, Dr. Julius Ukpoto, said the decision to inaugurate the Council and the LGA committees was informed by ongoing efforts to maintain stability and provide structured support for the current administration.

According to him, members of the Forum believe the state needs a strong advisory mechanism to consolidate recent gains and sustain development momentum.

He noted that the governor's strides in public service reforms, social investment programmes, and institutional recovery "have created the need for a united front to guide continuity and long-term planning."

"These structures will help ensure that the state does not drift or lose cohesion as we move toward another electoral cycle," he added.

C'River State Govt Unveils Ebri as Chairman, Elders Advisory Council

Ukorebi Esien | December 12, 2025

CALABAR — The Cross River State Government has unveiled former governor of the state, Chief Clement Ebri, as Chairman of the Elders Advisory Council, a body established to strengthen consultative governance and provide strategic guidance to the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

The unveiling which took place on Thursday in Calabar under the auspices of the Cross River State Consultative Forum, brought together eminent leaders, former public office holders and respected statesmen from across the 18 local government areas of the state.

Performing the iinugurrtion ceremony Governor Bassey Otu  described the Elders Advisory Council as a vital asset to the administration, noting that governments that listen to credible and experienced advisers are better positioned to succeed.

Otu who was represented by his deputy Rt. Hon. Peter Odey reaffirmed the administration's commitment to listening to the council's advice, adding that the government was determined to consolidate its achievements in infrastructure, asset recovery and economic development across the state.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Cross River State Consultative Forum, Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, said the council was established to provide a platform where experienced leaders from all parts of the state could contribute to shaping policies and programmes aimed at accelerating development.

Ekpo explained that the advisory council would also serve as a feedback mechanism to monitor the implementation of government projects and interventions at the grassroots, ensuring that policies reach ordinary citizens and reflect their needs.

According to him, the forum would intensify citizens' engagement across the state, with a focus on political awareness, participation in governance and increased voter turnout during elections to enhance Cross River State's relevance at the federal level.

He also announced the inauguration of coordinating committees of the Consultative Forum in all 18 local government areas, noting that the local government structures would be responsible for establishing ward-level committees to drive grassroots participation.

Shortly after his unveiling as Chairman of the Elders Advisory Council Chief Clement Ebri, expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and assured that the council would offer sincere, independent and constructive advice in the interest of the state.

He commended Governor Otu for embracing inclusive leadership and creating space for elders to contribute meaningfully to governance, stressing that experience and institutional memory remained critical to navigating the challenges of leadership.

The inauguration of the Elders Advisory Council marks a new phase in the state's consultative governance framework, with expectations that the body will play a key role in fostering unity, accountability and sustainable development in Cross River State.