A prominent Cross Riverian, scholar, mediator and community leader, Papa Dorn CK Enamhe, has been celebrated on the occasion of his 60th birthday for his decades of service, scholarship, peacebuilding and advocacy for community development.
In a congratulatory message signed by the President of the Bekwarra Community Association, University of Calabar, Engr. Prof. Odey A. Osha, FCAI, Enamhe was described as a man whose life exemplifies “service, scholarship and an unwavering love for his community.”
Born and raised in Atibulum, Gakem, in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State, Enamhe has built a career spanning academia, law, mediation, community mobilisation and public advocacy.
He currently serves as a lecturer in the Department of Social Work at the University of Calabar. His academic interests and qualifications cut across several disciplines, including Agriculture, Sociology, Environmental Science, Education Law, Social Work, Public Administration and Political Science.
According to Osha, however, Enamhe’s greatest contribution extends beyond his academic accomplishments, noting that his commitment to the welfare of vulnerable people and the development of communities has distinguished him over the years.
The celebrant has played notable roles in peacebuilding and community intervention, including efforts toward the repatriation of the remains of the late Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas, as well as initiatives aimed at rehabilitating the Belegete communities following cross-border attacks.
As a Chartered Mediator, Enamhe has also been involved in peace and reconciliation efforts in communities across Cross River State, including Yala and Ogoja.
His advocacy for the creation of Ogoja State has further positioned him as a prominent voice on issues concerning the political and socioeconomic development of the people of the northern senatorial district.
As Convener of the Movement for the Creation of Ogoja State, Enamhe has continued to advocate for the aspirations of communities seeking greater political recognition and development.
He is also associated with the “Think Cross River” initiative, through which he has advocated for the protection and reclamation of the state’s resources and territorial interests. His advocacy has been underscored by the phrase, “coordinates do not lie.”
His appointment as Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River by the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, was described by Osha as a recognition of his strategic advocacy and longstanding commitment to public service.
Beyond his professional and public engagements, Enamhe has received traditional recognition for his commitment to community welfare. He is known by the title “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1 of Basang Obanliku,” interpreted as “The Father Who Takes Care of Elders.”
Osha described the title as a reflection of Enamhe’s personality and his longstanding concern for the welfare of others.
The birthday message also celebrated Enamhe as a family man, describing him as a devoted husband to Mrs. Pam Enamhe and a loving father of four children.
As he clocks 60, the Bekwarra Community Association, University of Calabar, joined family, friends and associates in celebrating what it described as decades of visionary leadership, intellectual contribution, community service and advocacy.
Osha wished the celebrant renewed strength, peace, joy and fulfillment, expressing the hope that Enamhe would continue to make meaningful contributions to Cross River State and beyond.
“Happy Birthday, Papa,” Osha said, urging the celebrant to continue shining his light and inspiring generations to come.
Signed:
Engr. Prof. Odey A. Osha, FCAI
President, Bekwarra Community Association, University of Calabar
September 9, 2026