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Tag: #Peter Odey

  • C’River Deputy Governor Receives Egbe-Mbube Progressive Union Calabar Branch

    C’River Deputy Governor Receives Egbe-Mbube Progressive Union Calabar Branch

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State,Rt. Hon. Peter Odey today, the 11th of October, 2023 received in audience the Egbe Mbube Progressive Union, Calabar Branch in his office.

    Speaking during the visit, Rt. Hon. Odey expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the visit while extending to the group an invitation to his residence to enable them interface on issues bothering the community in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Concerning the issues raised by the group such as the abandoned clinic and dilapidated primary school in their region, Odey gave them assurance that the contractors handling the health facility will be contacted to complete the project and that the school will be renovated.

    Earlier, the chairman of the union, Dr. Sunny Ogon said the union has deemed it necessary to come and rejoice with him as their brother over his victory at the polls and to present a few challenges they are faced with back home. Ogon cited the clinic and the primary school in Egbe Mbube which had been abandoned and rapidly dilapidating respectively. He also be reported that the secondary school was understaffed.

    Also present during the visit were Chief Dr. Akpeh Edung, a retired permanent secretary, Professor Jonas Akung, Mr. Thomas Atem a retired director and others who felicitated Rt. Hon. Odey while reiterating the needs of the community and the call for more women inclusion in the scheme of things.

    Highlights of the visit included a presentation of a portrait to the Deputy Governor.

  • Gov Otu Assures Of His Administration’s Commitment To Support Any Engagement Targeted At Building The Youths

    Gov Otu Assures Of His Administration’s Commitment To Support Any Engagement Targeted At Building The Youths

    The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has assured the youths of Cross River State of this administration’s commitment to support any engagement targeted at building the youths in the state.

    Senator Otu, who was ably represented by his Deputy Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this known at the Hit FM Calabar Entertainment Conference held today at the cultural center complex, Calabar. He commended the CEO of Hit FM Calabar, Mr. Patrick Ugbe and Crew for putting and sustaining the event over the past seven years, noting that entertainment contributes to the socio-economic development of any state especially as it has to do with building the youths of Cross River State.

    According to Rt. Hon Odey, “Anything to do with the people of Cross River State, count us first, because we want the vaccine people of Cross River State to be first”

    While acknowledging the entertainment stars of Cross River State origin present at the event, he started that he is very confident that this conference will birth more stars in the music and movies industry. Therefore the state government will partner with Hit FM for next year’s event because it is evident that Entertainment is an avenue to invest in young people and take them off the streets as well as off criminal activities and engaging them where they will be productive and contribute to the society.

    Welcoming the guest, sponsors, panelists and artists to this year’s event, the Chief executive Officer of Hit FM Calabar, Mr Patrick Ugbe said this is the first time since the event started that there is a formal presence of government. He said it goes to show the commitment and love this administration has towards youth development and indeed, the season of sweetness is upon us.

    The calabar entertainment conference (CEC) is an annual youth engagement event which was undertaken with the believe that the creative industry is the fastest way to get young people out of poverty and crime into gainful engagement. It also aims at growing and developing the entertainment sector in the south -south, thereby making it viable and sustainable for the practitioners.

    Mr. Ugbe noted that the impact has been huge, with an upsurge of entertainment events in Calabar, Cross River State and neighbouring states. He thanked all the sponsors and partners such as the United States consulate General Office in Lagos, Multichoice, Leven Energy, Black house media and a host of others.

  • C’River Governor Congratulates 2023 Naval War College Graduands

    C’River Governor Congratulates 2023 Naval War College Graduands

     

    By Ukongikwen Adie

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has congratulated the 22 graduates of the Naval Warfare Course 7 in Calabar, Cross River State.

    Senator Otu who was represented at the graduation ceremony by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, said the Nigerian Navy had been of great help to the State. He stated that apart from the Navy Reference Hospital which had become known as the best hospital in the South-South Region of Nigeria, the men of the Nigerian Navy had been proactive in carrying out their security duties with so much dedication. He cited an instance earlier this year when many students who were involved in a boat mishap around Marina were saved by the prompt intervention of men of the Nigerian Navy.

    On behalf of the Governor, Hon. Odey assured the Navy of the State’s determination to support them with land and any other thing that they might need from the State.

    Presenting the Warfare Course 7 Graduands for award, the Commandant of the Naval War College of Nigeria, Rear Admiral MB Hassan, assured participants in the ceremony that the graduands had been imbued with the same skills as their predecessors. Rear Admiral MB Hassan said the 22 officers represented the final crop among their contemporaries who were now capable of undertaking higher operational level command responsibilities and making meaningful contributions towards solving many of the nation’s security challenges. He charged the Course 7 graduands to showcase the defining character of the War College when they return to their respective services.

    The Special Guest of Honour and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral EI Ogalla, thanked the government of CRS for the provision of land and support for the Navy. He also commended the Commandant for accomplishing the mission of the College by not only producing well-trained operational level Commanders, but also by training foreign participants. This, according to the CNS, was an indication that the War College had attained international standards and recognition. While congratulating the graduands, the Special Guest of Honour thanked the Almighty God that the training did not record any adverse incident. Rear Admiral Ogalla drew attention to the global nature of security challenges that were destabilizing in nature, stating that these spates of challenges constituted a clarion call for militaries all over the world to embrace long-term and robust strategic postures to be able to combat such threats.

    While highlighting insurgency and banditry as some of the irregular challenges facing the nation, Rear Admiral Ogalla noted that the Nigerian Navy had changed its operations to meet up with such emerging irregular security challenges that were prevalent in Nigeria today

    The Naval War College is the highest Naval training institution in Nigeria. It was built to boost security in the maritime sector, as well as enhance the capability of Naval officers to make sound decisions both in command and management positions.

    Since the inception of the Naval War College in line with the Nigerian Naval Order 08/17 which promulgated its creation, it has continued to graduate intakes. The War College started on its temporary site at Ubima, Rivers State in 2017, before relocating to Calabar.

    Highlights of the event included the presentation of a souvenir to the State Governor by the Nigerian Navy.

  • Nigeria @ 63rd: Gov Otu Calls On Labour Union To Give Govt A Chance For More Deliberation

    Nigeria @ 63rd: Gov Otu Calls On Labour Union To Give Govt A Chance For More Deliberation

     

    The Governor of Cross River State Sen. Prince Bassey Otu has called on the Nigerian Labour Union to sheath their sword and give government a chance for more deliberation.

    The Governor who spoke through his Deputy Rt. Hon.Peter Odey during the Thanksgiving service held today the 1st of October 2023 at The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Hope Waddle Parish, Calabar to celebrate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary.

    Speaking at the event, the Governor said ” As a government,we have pledged to prioritize the welfare and well-being of our citizens. We have promised a ‘People- First’ approach to governance and today, I want to assure you that your commitment to the development of our state remains unwavering and we are determined to create an environment where businesses can thrive and create job opportunities for our people ”

    Earlier, the Prelate, His Eminence Ekpeyong Akpanika Ph.D said it is with mixed feelings of Joy and sadness that w celebrate the independence. According to him, the state of the nation calls for reflection as both the government and people are involved in building a legacy for the next generation.

    While reminiscing on the once organized state of the educational, transportation and vibrant middle class, he called on leaders at all levels to rise up and become generational thinkers and take actions to build a good legacy for the next generation.
    The Prelate called on all to remember that what imortalizes a man is not what he does for himself, but for others. Also that greatness is not a function of possession but a function of service to God and humanity. Further more, that the service you render today maybe the harvest of your child tomorrow.

    He commended the Sen. Bassey Otu’s led administration for their achievements in a few months particularly the noticeably frequent evacuation of waste in the metropolis, intervention in the area of Security and Her Excellency Rev. Eyoawan Otu’s welfare visits to the home of the aged, motherless and less privileged in the society, while encouraging them to do more.

    His Eminence appealed to the government to as a matter of urgency empower the youths by redirecting their energy into sports, revive the sports council. He called on the government to take advantage of the fertile land the state has to invest massively in agriculture while also encouraging technological know how to meet up with a competitive world.
    He wrapped up with a prayer for the success, guidance and sustianance of this administration and for the Lord to surround the Governor with men and women with vision to grow the state to the next level.

    The event was attended by the Speaker of the House of Assembly,Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, the Chief Judge of the state, His Lordship, Justice Akon Ikpeme, the Obong of Calabar and members of the Obong’s Council, members of the State Executive Council, the Secretary to the state Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Service Chiefs, top government functionaries, elder statesmen and a host of other dignitaries.

  • Peter Odey Congratulates Speaker Elvert Ayambem, Describes Him As A Team Player

    Peter Odey Congratulates Speaker Elvert Ayambem, Describes Him As A Team Player

     

    Rt. Hon. Peter Odey has congratulated the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem while lauding him as a trustworthy and loyal team player fit for the position. The Deputy Governor who recently spoke at the Speaker’s Thanksgiving ceremony at Nde in Ikom Local Government disclosed that Hon. Elvert Ayambem’s elevation was an indication that anybody can become someone in life despite humble beginnings. He urged the people of Ikom to support their representative and let love for one another guide their interactions.

    Speaking variously at the event, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, and the State Chairman of the APC urged the Speaker to remain focused, and to work with his colleagues who elected him. They urged him to strive to keep the goodwill of the huge crowd of supporters who were fanning him on as evidenced by the large turnout.

    In his response, Hon. Ayambem assured his community that he would remain the same accessible Elvert that they had always known while promising that he understood that he was only first among equals in the House. He said that he would remember this fact always as it is the key to holding the House together. The lawmaker thanked his colleagues for choosing him and supporting him as if the House was made up of only one party despite not being the finest, the tallest nor the most brilliant member in the House.

    The celebration was attended by Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly of Ekiti, Ondo and Adamawa, several former and serving Commissioners, members of the the CRSHA, etc

     

  • Army GOC Expresses Readiness To Combat Crime In Cross River

    Army GOC Expresses Readiness To Combat Crime In Cross River

    By Ukongikwen Adie

    The Cross River State Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu today the 7th September, 2023, received in audience the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Hassan T. Dada and his entourage in a courtesy call.

    Speaking during the call, Major General Dada who recently assumed office as GOC, 82 Division, said it was customary to carry out familiarization tour of the states under an officer’s command, and he has therefore come to pay homage to the Governor of Cross River State as the Chief Security Officer of Cross River, one of the 6 states under the division. Major Dada added that it is both nostalgic and gratifying to be in the state having been here years ago as a Commanding Officer, 146 Battalion and also being a Malabite.

    The GOC solicited the co-operation of the state government and other sister agencies to tackle the challenges of kidnapping, piracy, cultism and communal clashes that have plagued the state in recent times. He assured the government that with their cooperation, even though the task ahead is Herculean, the command has the capacity and expertise to deliver.

    The Cross River State Governor, ably represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey welcomed Major General Dada who was also accompanied by the Commander of the 13th Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier Gen. E. I. Okoro and other high ranking officers. Rt. Hon. Odey thanked them particularly for being proactive in the lkang axis of the State by curbing the menace of kidnapping and also still manning the Yala/Benue State border to ensure that enduring peace and security returns to the state, while assuring them of government’s commitment to ensuring that Cross Riverians have the freedom to go about their businesses unhindered.

    Also present during the courtesy call were the Senator representing Cross River State Central Senatorial district, Send. Eteng Jones Williams, Commissioners for Information and Justice, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, the Head of Service, State Security Adviser and other Political Appointees.

  • Deputy Governor Opens Second Day Of Investment Summit In Calabar

    Deputy Governor Opens Second Day Of Investment Summit In Calabar

    By Fred Abua

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, took center stage on the second day of the International Cooperation & Investment Summit (ICIS) held at the prestigious Calabar International Conference Centre from August 30th to 31st, 2023. In his address, Rt. Hon. Odey echoed the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment by removing obstacles hindering seamless operations for investors in Cross River State.

    Drawing inspiration from the opening remarks made by the Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, on the inaugural day, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey reaffirmed the Cross River State Government’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of investments within the region. He highlighted the tangible demonstration of this commitment through the remarkable presence of high-ranking officials, including the Governor, Deputy Governor, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Secretary to the State Government, all commissioners, and all permanent secretaries, who collectively participated in the summit.

    Rt. Hon. Odey stated emphatically that the government’s pledge to safeguard investor interests was unequivocal and extends beyond mere rhetoric. Hon. Odey said: “This is not a political statement. We will ensure that whatever business you bring to Cross River State will have our protection.”

    The Deputy Governor further underscored the state’s determination to facilitate investor activities by providing security and land with Certificates of Occupancy for the investors. He proudly shared that Cross River State is the proprietor of 50% of Nigeria’s Carbon Credit reserves, boasting abundant forests, arable lands, valuable mineral resources, and an array of prospects spanning various sectors.

    Recalling his instrumental role in the enactment of the Cross River State Enterprise (Privatization) Law during the previous administration, Rt. Hon Peter Odey said this piece of legislation led to the establishment of the Privatization Council which sealed government’s departure from direct involvement in business operations. Odey cited instances of government-owned enterprises that have thrived after privatization, such as Lafarge Africa (formerly CALCEMCO), Flour Mills, and Transcorp Hotels (formerly Metropolitan Hotel). He said these ventures which now generate substantial profits for their owners are contributing taxes to the state, and providing employment opportunities for Cross Riverians, while surpassing their performance under government management.

    Distinguished speakers and luminaries from around the globe participated in the event, engaging in enlightening panel discussions, business-focused sessions, and pivotal business agreements with prospective investors on the sidelines. Notable figures present at the event included His Excellency, Cui Jianchun, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nigeria; His Excellency, Kim Young Chae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nigeria; Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, Country Representative of WHO; Dr. Iorwa Apera, Country Director of FHI360; Chief Diana Chen Emba, Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Investment Forum; Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group CEO of Access Holding Plc; Mr. Lamin G. Barrow, Director-General of the African Development Bank, Nigeria Country Department; Dr. O. M. O. Ashimolowo, Vice President of Operations at ECOWAS Bank for Investment & Development; and Mr. Suren Abeywickkrema, Vice President of ARISE Industrial Integrated Platforms, among several other esteemed guests.

    The event was brought to a conclusion with an entertaining dinner and award night attended by the Deputy Governor, international investors, members of the State Executive Council and many other people.

  • Cross River State Governor Attends Executive Leadership Retreat In Kigali

    Cross River State Governor Attends Executive Leadership Retreat In Kigali

    By Fred Abua

    The Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, has participated in a 3-day Executive Leadership Retreat for first- and second-term Nigerian Governors in Kigali, Rwanda, from 24 to 26 August 2023, at the invitation of His Excellency, Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda. The retreat was dedicated to fostering dialogue on reimagining leadership and leveraging innovative technology, drawing inspiration from Rwanda’s transformative journey.

    The event, tagged “Rethinking Leadership and Leading Systems” was organized by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The distinguished participants, representing 19 Nigerian States, engaged in sessions that explored Rwanda’s successful investment destination transformation in digital technology, urban planning and socio-economic transformation, ending with a candid private dialogue with President Kagame.

    Speaking shortly after his return from Rwanda, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who attended the retreat in the place of the Governor said he had a wonderful discussion with the President of Rwanda, Mr. Paul Kagame whom he described as a refined leader that has transformed the East African nation. Hon. Peter Odey expressed faith that the transformation that has occurred in Rwanda is possible in Nigeria with determination, innovation and honest leadership.

    Addressing participants at the event, Matthias Z. Naab, Director of the UNDP Regional Service Centre for Africa, in his opening remarks said “Adaptive leaders possess the unique ability to not only acknowledge the challenges that come their way, but to also harness them as opportunities for growth and innovation.”

    The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, a non-partisan organization made up of Governors of all the states in the country has become a major link between government, development partners and private organizations while witnessing increased cooperation between the States and the Federal Government, particularly on collaborative pathways to overcoming commonly shared developmental challenges. It is hoped that the Executive Leadership Retreat will provide the new governors with new strategies to tackle development challenges within their States.

    On his return to the state on Tuesday, 29th August, 2023, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey was received at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport by Commissioners and other Government officials.

  • Cross River Govt Celebrates Leboku 2023, Calls On Yakurr People To Maintain Peace

    Cross River Govt Celebrates Leboku 2023, Calls On Yakurr People To Maintain Peace

    By Fred Abua 

    The State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, has called on the indigenous people of Yakurr to maintain peace as Cross River State continues to record giant strides in the tourism sector. The Governor who made this call during the 2023 Leboku Festival in Ugep urged the celebrants to give tourists and visitors who were in the community for the celebrations a memorable stay by shunning violence.

    The Governor, represented at the event by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, pointed out that Leboku had been added to the State’s Cultural Calendar many years ago to boost the state’s tourism potential. He said it was “a known fact that since then and with the support of other partners and sponsors, the festival has continued to grow, year in year out”. He promised that the present administration will make the festival even better by securing the buy-in of the Federal Government.

    Earlier at the Palace of the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr, the Deputy Governor highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the people of Yakurr and praised the Paramount Ruler for the peaceful coexistence in the community. He assured of the governor’s presence in the next edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival.

    Responding, the Paramount Ruler, Obol Lopon of Ugep, HRM (Dr) Obol Ofem Ubana, described the Leboku New Yam festival is a season of plenty and a time to celebrate abundance and survival after the planting season’s hardships. He noted that the Yakurr people had kept this tradition over the years and friendships had been forged between people during this celebration. He said prices of foodstuff will go down following the celebration.

    The Obol Lopon expressed satisfaction with the present State Government, stating that although the administration was new, it had acted like an old and experienced Government by providing everything needed for the celebration to be successful and hitch-free.

    The colorful festival featured various events such as a parade by the Maidens of Yakurr, traditional wrestling, August Women International and the presentation of car prizes to Mr. Leboku 2023 and Miss Leboku 2023 and the Chief harvester. Other consolation prizes were awarded to the first and second runners-up.

  • Gov Otu Lauds Hon Victor Abang ‘Mature’

    Gov Otu Lauds Hon Victor Abang ‘Mature’

    By Fred Abua

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu has congratulated the Member Representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. (Chief) Victor Bisong Abang, on his election victory and successful commencement of his term at the House.

    Speaking at the Thanksgiving Mass/Reception held at Akwagom, the Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described Hon. Victor Abang as an example of a man who loved God. He praised Hon. Abang’s sacrifices for the work of God, particularly the Catholic Church. The Governor disclosed that it was when Hon. Abang stepped down from the APC primaries for the sake of peace that God chose to give it to him. He called on those who were in court to challenge Hon. Abang’s mandate to have a rethink because it was already ordained that he will complete the term. The Governor praised Hon. Abang’s work in the House of Representatives as the work of a man who thinks about the people.

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, Bishop Donatus Etim, who was not physically present sent words of congratulations assuring the Member of Parliament that he will continue to uplift the Member in prayers. In his words, ‘by entrusting you with their votes, the people have expressed their belief in your ability to bring about positive change, uplift their social well being and champion their interests. Do not disappoint them.’

    The Chief of Staff, Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, said Hon. Victor Abang, popularly called ‘Mature’ by his fans and friends, was a man to be emulated to get the kind of results the Member was getting in his life. Ironbar said the man worked for God and God is working for him.

    ‘Mature’ who was moved to tears by the massive support of priests, politicians, community leaders, family and friends, pledged that he will give his people quality representation at the House of Representatives. He said he had already sponsored 2 bills for the siting of federal educational institutions in Okunde and Ikom within only 67 days in office adding that within a short time, the constituency will be heard across the nation.

    Hon. Victor Abang who presented a car to each of the APC Chapter Chairmen of Ikom and Boki also gave several motorcycles to his constituents and led his friends and guests to make donations towards the building of a school within the church premises.

    Dignitaries who attended the ceremony included MP, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Abubakar Ewa, Commissioner for Information, Mr. Erasmus Ekpang, Member Representing Boki 1 in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Bette Obi, Gen. Moses Obi (Rtd), Prof. Zana Akpagu, amongst others.