Tag: #Peter Odey

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Thursday, received in audience Mr Florent Mangin, the Head of Regional Economic Department Nigeria-Ghana and his entourage, at the Government House in Calabar.

The Deputy Governor who expressed delight in welcoming Mr. Mangin and his team, emphasized the state government’s readiness to partner with France and other non-state entities to enhance economic development. He said the administration of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu has made substantial investments to foster a secure and an enabling business environment.

He expressed gratitude to both the French government and her business community for expressing commitments to supporting the state’s initiatives in line with its ‘People First’ agenda for the welfare of its citizens.

Mr. Mangin stated his purpose for visiting the state was to convey the eagerness of the French business community to partner with the Cross River State Government in vital sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure projects. These collaborations aim to enhance economic growth and development, aligning with Governor Otu’s ‘People First’ agenda.

He expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Government for the warm hospitality accorded him and his entourage through some relevant agencies of government since they arrived in the state.

In attendance at the event were some members of the State Executive Council, Senior Special Advisers and the State Economic Team.

Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar

The Council of Traditional Rulers in Egbe -Mbube, Ogoja Local Government Area, have conferred the highest honourary chieftaincy title on the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt Hon. Dr. Peter Odey.

Odey was conferred with the title of ‘Likeuel é’mpam I’ of Egbe Community, which means, the ‘Pillar of Egbe’ community as a reflection of the positive impact his immense contributions have made towards the development of the community and Mbube nation.

The title was bestowed on the Deputy Governor recently during the Egbe Day Celebration, an annual event dedicated to celebrate the values of community development.

Speaking after the conferment, Deputy Governor Odey, represented by his Head of Personal Staff, Dr. Chris Ojikpong, expressed gratitude to the people of Egbe Community and the Council of Traditional Rulers for the honour and recognition, emphasizing its significance to him, and assured the people of his commitment to community development.

Continuing, he extended congratulations to the good people of Egbe-Mbube community for the successful 2024 Egbe Day Celebration, urging them to continue their support for the administration of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu to fully realize the ‘People First’ Agenda.

In praising the efforts of the Egbe-Mbube community in undertaking self-sustaining development projects, he hailed the initiative as valuable and encouraged them to persist in launching and completing projects that offer economic advantages and benefit everyone.

The Clan Head of Egbe-Mbube, HRH Buturo Thomas Akung, stated that conferring the title on Odey recognizes his steadfast dedication to the advancement and progress of not only Mbube nation but also the state and nation as a whole.

He reassured the Deputy Governor of Egbe people’s support for the current administration, under the capable leadership of Senator Prince Bassey Otu, whom he described as truly embodying the ‘People First’ approach.

Major highlight of the event, held at the Primary School Field in Egbe-Mbube, Ogoja Local Government Area, included the commissioning of an ultramodern town hall by the Deputy Governor’s representative, presentation of awards and chieftaincy titles to deserving individuals from Ogoja, as well as captivating cultural displays.

As Christians across the World commemorate Easter Celebration, His Excellency, Rt Hon. Dr. Peter Odey has enjoined Christians and Cross Riverians to imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ which is to love one another with pureness of heart and sincerity of purpose.

He reminded them that love is what rules the world and conquers even the darkest of places, noting that Christ is the greatest teacher of love.

According to him, “The resurrection of Jesus Christ reminds us of the love of the Father. It brings to mind His loving kindness for mankind and what Christ represents. It should draw us back to Christ and the counsel of God for your life shall stand…

“As we celebrate the burial and resurrection of Christ, may we be reminded that love is what rules the world. Love conquers even the darkest of places and Christ is the greatest teacher of love. It is my earnest prayer that you experience peace, soundness of mind and body and the love of the Father in your hearts.”

He charged Christians to use the period to pray for the state, country and leaders at all levels.

The Deputy Governor used the opportunity to expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the good people of Cross River State for their unwavering support to the present administration under the able leadership of the ‘People First’ Governor, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu.

He wished Cross Riverians and Christians a glorious Easter celebration.

In a bid to end protracted boundary disputes between Cross River and Ebonyi State, both states have resolved to embrace and work towards achieving peace along the border corridors of Ndiagu Amagu, Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi and Adadama, Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The resolution was contained in a 5-point communique issued after a meeting of officials of Cross River/Ebonyi State on interstate boundary held at Ebonyi State Deputy Governor’s office, Abakaliki on Tuesday, 19th March, 2024.

In a communique adopted by officials from both parties and signed by the Deputy Governors of Cross River State and Ebonyi State, the meeting resolved to embark on sensitization of the affected communities to desist from all forms of encroachment while waiting for the delineation of the boundaries by the National Boundary Commission (NBC). It also adds that the two states put in place modalities for joint security teams to patrol the affected areas.

The members agreed that the deputy governors of both states who are also Chairmen of State Boundary Committee are to reach out to the National Boundary Commission to expedite action on boundary delineation to restore peace and ensure that no further lives are lost and properties destroyed in these communities while the revitalization of Adadama-Amagu Development Association (ADAMADA), a group that had contributed immensely to peace in the region, is to be prioritized.

The meeting, presided over by the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Her Excellency, Princess Patricia Obila, and attended by His Excellency, Rt Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Deputy Governor of Cross River State and Chairman, State Boundary Committee, ably represented by the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the state, Ededem Ani, Esq, was attended by a high profile delegation from Cross River State including the State Security Adviser, Major-General Okoi Ubi Obono (Rtd); Head of Personal Staff to the Deputy Governor, Dr Chris Ojikpong; the Director-General of Border Communities Development Commission (BORDERCOM), Rt. Hon. Ngim Okpo; Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Relations, Hon. Chief Ada Charles Egwu, Head of Local Government Administration, Abi LGA , Mrs. Eke Ani; and, traditional rulers from the affected LGA of the State as well as other relevant government officials.

The Ebonyi State delegation to the meeting had the Commissioner for Border Peace and Conflict Resolution, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor and Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area as well as traditional rulers and several top government officials in attendance

Deputy Governor’s Press Unit,
Calabar
19/3/2024

Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, has pledged his commitment to supporting the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

During a recent visit, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who received the institute on behalf of the Governor, conveyed this assurance to the 59th National President of ICAN, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, and his delegation.

ICAN, known for its pivotal role in society, has produced outstanding accounting professionals.

The Governor, who promised to allocate land for ICAN’s secretariat within the state as requested by the National President, said Cross River State has benefited from the body’s professionalism, citing the remarkable contributions of their members who are members of the State Exco.

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Okwusa emphasized that ICAN’s focus extends beyond technical expertise.

He said the institute champions accountability and transparency in governance and expressed hope that Cross River State, currently ranked 21st in the federation, will climb higher with the state government’s unwavering support.

Members of ICAN that are in the State Executive Council that were present at the event included, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Odere; the Commissioner for Housing Development, Dr. Beatrice Igwe; and, the Accountant-General of the state, Dr. Glory Effiong. Also in attendance was the former Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Kelly Iyamba.

Highlights of the event included the exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.

Adie Ukongikwen

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, today the 20th of February, 2024, received in his office the Ekumtak Welfare Association (EWA) Calabar Branch.

In his opening remark, the leader of the delegation and Chairman of EWA, Hon. Justin Bentem said Ekumtak Welfare Association whose objectives include looking out for the welfare of Mbube sons and daughters and the development of Mbube nation as a whole was in the office to felicitate with the Deputy Governor over the electoral and subsequent judicial victory of himself and the ‘People First ‘ Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu.

While praying God to continue to guide them in their administration he highlighted some issues affecting the Ekumtak people to include dilapidated secondary and primary schools; bad road network in the community; the need for portable water and electricity; gainful engagement of their youths; and completion of their town hall, and solicited for the support of government, public spirited individuals and NGOs to ameliorate the plight of the people.

Responding to the Chairman’s remarks, Rt. Hon. Odey appreciated the visit of Ekumtak people. Regarding their demands, he said “Your demands are not out of place because these are basic amenities that government should provide”.

Odey assured the association that all the issues affecting the Ekumtak people will be met as this will be meeting his own needs as well. The Deputy Governor used the opportunity to announce that the road leading from Ndok Junction into Mbube had already been awarded under the CR-RAAMP Project while also informing the delegation of ongoing water projects he had already sponsored in the community, assuring them that Ekumtak will benefit from the project.

Present during the call were distinguished personalities of Ekumtak-Mbube, Sir B. O Ekpong, Justice Eunice Dada, Mr Godwin Nyiam, Chief Dr. A. A Abuo, Ms. Monica Ekpong and others.

Highlights of the visit was a presentation of souvenirs to Rt. Hon Odey and a photo session with the visitors.

15th February, 2024

PRESS STATEMENT
SUBJECT: PAYMENT OF JANUARY SALARIES ONGOING

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, wishes to clarify that over 80% of January salaries for workers in the state have already been paid.

The seeming delay for some employees in the State Civil Service and Local Government, though regrettable, is informed by the painstaking effort to weed out duplicate entries following the reconciliation of cleared names from the relevant pay-rolling offices with the nominal roll.

It will be recalled that the state government had embarked on staff audit and verification for all MDAs and employees in the local government system owing to the enormous wage bill despite large number of retirements from the service.

The state government has made significant progress in that regard and will in no distant time makes its findings public.

In the interim, the government appeals to the labour force to see this exercise as birth pangs of a glorious future if we must have a state that we all desire.

The Senator Bassey Otu-led administration remains committed to its People First Agenda and this can only be realised when all segments of the state make sacrifices and support the drive for a transparent and accountable system.

The State Government notes the difficult times and assures that all those whose salaries have been delayed genuinely will be paid in no distant time.

E-Signed:

Fred Abua, Esq., JP
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor

The Managing Director (MD) of Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi and his team, on Thursday, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, in Government House, Calabar.

During his opening statements, Dr. Ogunyemi conveyed the warm regards of the Honourable Minister of Trade and Investment. He expressed satisfaction with the significant progress achieved by Governor Bassey Otu’s administration in various development sectors within just a few months in office, emphasizing that “Governor Otu has performed admirably.”

He listed the prompt payments of salaries of civil servants and pensioners, approve use of concrete for road construction, installation of solar powered street lights across the three Senatorial District of the State, lifting bans on wood logging, which according to him has revitalized the wood industry, ongoing building of fruit arcade and hosting the biggest street party in Africa and much more. According to the MD, “All these achievements and more are possible because your adminstration undertook bold steps to reduce the customary problems and mobilize resources to achieve the ‘Peoples First’ projects in line with the ‘Renewed Hope’ Mantra of Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”

Ogunyemi, speaking further, said NEPZA and the Calabar Free Trade Zone are determined to give this government the needed support within the ambit of the law that established Free Trade Zones in Nigeria to ensure a prosperous tenure for the present administration.

In the area of Corporate Social Responsibility, Dr. Ogunyemi said NEPZA had built and donated several equipment to University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Police Station, Technical Schools, donation of satellite communication equipment, installation of 33KVA transformer in their host Community, award of scholarships to indigent students in the state amongst others.

While appealing to state government to take advantage of their tax incentives to set up enterprises or groups of enterprises to harness viable economic benefits to boost the revenue generating base of the State, he reiterated NEPZA’s commitment to partner and support the state.

Responding, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who welcomed the team on behalf of the Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, assured the NEPZA boss and his team of state government’s readiness to partner and give NEPZA the needed support to carry out their operations in the state without any hitch, noting that if EPZ works, it is also to the state’s benefit because it will make other state owned facilities like Tinapa to work

Odey called on EPZ to intensify its marketing efforts for Tinapa by directing potential investors to the business resort. He commended their unrelenting efforts in regards to their Corporate Social Responsibility to their host community and the people of the State.

The NEPZA boss was accompanied on the visit by officials of the Calabar Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and Tinapa Business Resort Trade Zone.

Other participants present during the visit included the Secretary to State Government, Prof Anthony Owan Enoh, several members of the State Exco, including the Commissioner for Industries, Dr. Mathias Angioha, Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. Mrs. Abigail Duke-Orok, Commissioner for Information, Mr. Erasmus Ekpang, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Development, Hon. Abuvakar Ewa, and Commissioner for Transport, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham as well as the Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Mr. Patrick Egbede.

The Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey has commended the services of the former Commander of the 13th Brigade Army, who has been promoted to the rank of Major General and has been transferred.

Odey bid the former Commander farewell and wished him success in his new assignment.

The deputy governor used the opportunity and welcomed the new commander, Brig-Gen. I M Ibrahim to Cross River State
He assured him of maximum support by the government as he carries out his duties.

Earlier, Maj. Gen. Okoro, noted that he has come to bid the deputy governor farewell and to introduce his successor, Brig-Gen. I M Ibrahim.